As cultures across Asia prepare for the Lunar New Year on January 29, Longines introduces its Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake, a limited edition timepiece celebrating 2025's Zodiac symbol, the Wood Snake. This model joins a longstanding tradition where watchmakers honour the Chinese New Year with unique creations. This particular piece by Longines stands out not only for its cultural significance but also for its affordability compared to similar offerings.

Originally launched in 1954, the Conquest line is among Longines' most enduring collections. The latest iteration, limited to 2,025 pieces, revisits the mid-century aesthetic of the original models. It features a domed, sunray-finished dial that eschews a date window, enhancing its vintage appeal. Gilt dauphine hands sweep across wedge-shaped indices, adding a touch of classic elegance. The watch's standout feature is its striking gradient red dial, offering a vivid backdrop to the golden elements, symbolising luck and prosperity in the new year.

Turning the watch over reveals a unique caseback, showcasing a piece by Chinese artist Wu Jian’an. The artwork, an engraved depiction from the "Legend of the White Snake," shows a snake with a Lingzhi mushroom, a motif representing the theft of the immortal herb. This design not only celebrates the legend but also reflects Longines' dedication to melding traditional influences with modern innovation. The engraving, titled “Divine Snake Presents Treasure,” is a visual expression of wishes for harmony and prosperity in the coming year.

Encased within this special edition is the Longines Caliber L888.5, an automatic movement renowned for its resistance to magnetism courtesy of a silicon balance spring. This feature ensures enhanced precision over time. The movement provides a substantial power reserve of 72 hours, embodying the brand's commitment to reliability and self-sufficiency. The watch measures 40mm in diameter and 10.7mm in thickness, making it a comfortable fit for a variety of wrist sizes, and is finished with a classic black leather strap.

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Priced at $3,150 in the U.S., the Longines Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake is only slightly more expensive than the standard models of the same line, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a timepiece with both cultural significance and classic style. This model is available without the limitations often seen with special releases, ensuring that enthusiasts have the opportunity to own a piece of this limited series.

For those keen on delving deeper into Longines' impressive catalog of timepieces, a treasure trove of articles awaits. Discover the Longines Hodinkee Spirit Zulu Limited Edition, a unique collaboration that highlights Longines' dedication to precision and style. Dive into the heritage of underwater exploration with the Longines Legend Diver 39mm and explore the technical prowess of the Longines Spirit Flyback Chronograph Titanium. For a look back at the brand’s historical models, the articles on Longines Vintage Military Diving and Popular Vintage Longines Watches offer a nostalgic journey through time. Lastly, experience the innovative Longines Ultra-Chron Carbon, which showcases the latest advancements in watchmaking materials and design.