The New Zulu Time GMT – Longines Strikes Again
Longines, always synonymous with precision and elegance, didn’t disappoint its fans with the release of the Spirit Zulu Time in 42mm last year. However, some watch enthusiasts voiced concerns about the size being overpowering for their wrists. Well, Longines listened, and here we have a more demure sibling, the Zulu Time GMT in 39mm, which offers the same appeal as the original, just in a more manageable package. The new Spirit Zulu is not shy in its ambition, standing toe-to-toe with the likes of Tudor Black Bay Pro.
A Spirit(ual) Journey with Longines
The Zulu Time GMT 39mm retains the Spirit collection’s quintessential features. Its intricacies, such as the surround of the chapter ring, the frame of the bezel, and the dial’s five applied stars, exemplify the classic Longines touch. However, this ornate look might be polarizing for some, appearing more interesting or less so, especially when compared to the more toolish Tudor Black Bay Pro.
Size Does Matter – Longines Nails It
The new Zulu Time 39 measures 39mm in diameter and 13.5mm in thickness. While the dimensions are impressive, it’s the wearing experience that hits the mark, providing a comfortable fit even for those with a 7.25” wrist. The GMT genre lacks options in this size and price range, so the arrival of Zulu Time 39 is a breath of fresh air for watch enthusiasts.
Powering the Zulu Time GMT – The L844.4 Caliber
Underneath its captivating aesthetics, the Zulu Time GMT houses the automatic L844.4 caliber, a Longines-exclusive movement. The silicon balance spring ensures magnetic protection, while its COSC certification assures accuracy within -4/+6 seconds. The micro-adjustment system, another must-have feature, is present in the clasp for ultimate comfort.
A Welcome Addition to the Spirit Collection
The 39mm Zulu Time GMT is an exciting extension to the Spirit collection and, in particular, to the Zulu Time family. Longines has shown dedication in catering to fans’ preferences and seems poised to continue doing so with more releases on the horizon.
Colorways and Pricing Details
Longines offers the Spirit Zulu Time in 39mm in four colorways: black/black with blue GMT hand, green/black with gilt accents, blue/blue with orange GMT hand, and black/black with gilt accents. The pricing starts from $3,050 for a leather strap variant, up to $3,150 for a steel bracelet. The black/black model with gilt accents and a gold bezel surround is priced at $4,200 on leather and fabric, while the steel bracelet version reaches up to $4,300.
Key Points
- Longines releases the Spirit Zulu Time GMT in a more approachable 39mm size, competing directly with Tudor Black Bay Pro.
- The watch retains the ornate design details of the Spirit collection, including the five applied stars on the dial.
- Featuring an automatic L844.4 caliber, the watch ensures excellent precision, boasting COSC certification.
- The watch is available in four different colorways, offering both leather and steel strap options.
- Prices range from $3,050 to $4,300, depending on strap choice and colorway.
My Hot Take
With the Spirit Zulu Time GMT in 39mm, Longines has nailed the balance between boldness and elegance. This watch is like the charming underdog that steps into the ring and takes the heavyweight champion by surprise. Its unique ornate touches, precise movement, and range of colorways put the watch on a pedestal that gives the Tudor Black Bay Pro a run for its money. It’s high time (pun intended) that Longines gets a standing ovation for paying heed to the size concerns and giving enthusiasts a gem that wraps the wrist with grace and gravitas.
