Elegance has always been an attitude for Longines, and the DolceVita leads by example, with three new watches set to refresh the collection’s refined identity.
That phrase, “Elegance is an attitude”, has long been the driving force behind the watchmakers at Longines. Introduced in 1999, it embraces beauty, grace and, well, elegance, all of which the brand has demonstrated throughout its 194-year history. But the reason I recall the phrase is that it is more than just marketing. The late 1990s also became a proving ground for one of Longines’ definitive collections: the DolceVita.
Inspired by the Art Deco movement and Longines’ own archival references from the period, the DolceVita became one of the brand’s defining dress watches. Combining classic design with contemporary flair, it has become a quintessential companion for the “sweet life” of its Italian translation. This year, Longines has decided to expand the model line in what I’ve nicknamed the “RGB” collection, introducing new models on red, green and blue leather straps that exemplify the philosophy behind the brand’s enduring tagline.
Omne Trium Perfectum
The new Longines DolceVita models encompass three iterations across two different sizes. The smaller size, primarily aimed at women, measures 20.8mm in case diameter, with a 32mm lug-to-lug length and a thickness of 6.9mm.
The larger model, offering slightly more universal wearability, is sized at 23.3mm wide, 37mm long and 7.2mm thick. All are housed in stainless steel, and the remarkable thinness of both sizes allows them to slip seamlessly beneath a jacket or shirt cuff.
With 30 metres of water resistance, the wearing experience won’t extend to rough-and-tumble adventures, but a watch like this doesn’t need to. As mentioned, the watches come on alligator leather straps that further enhance wearability.
The interchangeable nature of the straps, as is the case with most DolceVita models, allows for easy customisation when desired. If you’re looking for something with a little more shine, however, the blue model is also available on a steel bracelet, complete with a butterfly clasp for a more secure and refined fit.
A Flowery Disposition
But elegance is defined by effortless beauty. Thankfully, the watch not only wears effortlessly, but looks beautiful as well. Three dial variants are available across the new Longines DolceVita trio: an ivory rose-gold dial with rose-gold numerals and hands; an ivory gilt dial with matching details; and a classic silver dial with blued hands and numerals.
The Roman numerals, railroad minute track, small seconds display and sword hands complete the package of a distinctly period-appropriate yet timeless design. For me, though, it’s the dial finishing that sets the DolceVita line apart. Since its introduction in 1997, the collection has featured a flinqué finish. This involves using guilloché to create a radiant, flower-like pattern emanating from the centre of the dial. This subtle texturing, a hallmark of the collection, gives these watches a level of light play not found on most other timepieces.
Ready When You Are
As for the movement, turning the watch around will not reward you with a view of the caseback. Instead, you’ll find the traditional engravings detailing the nature of the piece. Inside, quartz movements have been employed to ensure both excellent accuracy and a competitive price point. The calibre L178.2 powers the smaller models, while the calibre L176.2 serves the larger DolceVita line.
While some mechanical purists may lament this decision from Longines, the brand continues to provide opportunities for elegance at all price points. Furthermore, the occasional nature of a dress watch arguably lends itself to a timepiece that is always ready to go whenever you need it. I have said it before, but I genuinely believe that the best dress watches are quartz.
Initial Thoughts
The three new versions of the Longines DolceVita — the RGB package, if you will — represent a thoughtful and measured expansion of the collection. While some of us, myself included, would have loved to see another mechanical rendition in a larger size, these pieces still epitomise the design language and broader brand values of Longines.
With their balanced proportions, Art Deco heritage and expressive new palette, the Longines DolceVita models continue to celebrate the harmony between tradition and contemporary sophistication. Like the Italian ‘Sweet Life’ that inspired their name, they are a reminder that true elegance is not bound by time, season or even price. The DolceVita proves the brand’s adage that elegance is an attitude, and it can help you achieve that.
References & Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Reference | Gilt Flinqué: L5.255.4.08.2 (Small) / L5.512.4.08.2 (Large) Rose Gold Flinqué: L5.255.4.28.2 (Small) / L5.512.4.28.2 (Large) Silver Flinqué, Small: L5.255.4.70.2 (Strap) / L5.255.4.70.6 (Bracelet) Silver Flinqué, Large: L5.512.4.70.2 (Strap) / L5.512.4.70.6 (Bracelet) |
| Dimensions | Small: 20.8mm case diameter x 32mm lug-to-lug x 6.9mm thickness Large: 23.3mm case diameter x 37mm lug-to-lug x 7.2mm thickness |
| Case | Stainless steel |
| Dial | Gilt / rose gold / silver flinqué with gilt / rose gold / blue accents |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Caseback | Closed, engraved |
| Movement | Small: Quartz Cal. L178.2 with small seconds complication Large: Quartz Cal. L176.2 with small seconds complication |
| Water Resistance | 30m / 3bar |
| Strap/Bracelet | Interchangeable green / red / blue alligator leather strap with pin buckle OR Silver Flinqué: Steel bracelet with butterfly clasp |