We pit these two Longines titans against each other in a head-to-head comparison, analyzing every aspect from history to horology.

Alright, let's check out these Longines chronographs. I've spent a lot of time with watches, and Longines is a brand with a cool history, especially when you're talking about chronographs. We'll look at two of their current models: the updated Conquest Chronograph and the impressive Spirit Flyback. Both are 42mm sport chronographs, but they have their own unique style and features. So, let's figure out which one might be best for you.

Design:

The Conquest Chronograph has a sporty but classy design. It was updated last year to look more modern and sleek. It has a fixed bezel with a ceramic insert and a tachymeter scale. Some of its design elements are similar to other well-known chronographs, like the Rolex Daytona. You can find it in a few different dial colors, like champagne, silver-white, black, and blue, and some have contrasting sub-dials and luminous markers.

The Spirit Flyback has a more classic pilot watch look, which connects to Longines' history with aviation. It's designed to look like a larger pilot's chronograph, with a rotating bezel (that goes both ways) and a ceramic insert that often matches the dial color. It comes in stainless steel, steel-and-gold, or titanium cases. The dials usually have a sunburst or shaded finish with Arabic numerals and luminous markers and hands.

While both watches are 42mm wide, the Spirit Flyback is thicker at 17mm, compared to the Conquest Chronograph's 14.3mm.

Movement:

The Conquest Chronograph uses the Calibre L898.5 movement. This automatic chronograph movement has a chronograph module added on top, based on an upgraded ETA 2892, that is made for Longines by ETA. It has a silicon hairspring to resist magnetism and a power reserve of 59 hours. While some people might not like the module chronograph it does make sense in order bring down the cost and height lower.

The Spirit Flyback uses the Calibre L791.4 movement. This is also an automatic chronograph movement based on an ETA design, but Longines has modified it quite a bit. It has a column wheel and a flyback function. The flyback function, which Longines patented in 1936, lets you reset and restart the chronograph with one push, which was originally useful for pilots timing flights. This movement is also COSC-certified for accuracy and has a silicon balance spring with a longer power reserve of 68 hours.

Wearability and Value:

Both watches are 42mm, but they feel different on the wrist. The Conquest Chronograph is 14.3mm thick, which feels substantial it wears large because of the wide lugs. The bracelet has a mix of brushed and polished links, but there are different opinions on the tapered design and butterfly clasp. It costs around $3,850 - $3,950, depending on whether you choose a strap or bracelet.

The Spirit Flyback is thicker at 17mm, so it sits higher on the wrist, especially with a NATO strap. The titanium version has a nice finish. You can get it with different straps, including a bracelet, leather, or NATO, and they often have quick-release tabs. Prices vary a lot depending on the material. The base model starts at $4,650.00, the titanium version is around $5,100 with a strap or $5,450 with a bracelet, and the steel-and-gold models are around $6,850. Even though it's more expensive, the flyback function, column wheel movement, and COSC certification make some people feel it's a good value, since flyback chronographs under $7,000 are not that common.

Conclusion:

Both the Longines Conquest Chronograph and the Spirit Flyback are solid sport chronographs, but they're aimed at different preferences. The Conquest Chronograph is versatile, well-designed, and durable, with a modern look and reliable performance, and it's priced as an accessible luxury watch. It's a good all-around choice if you want a recognizable style and good quality. The Spirit Flyback is more about technical features and its connection to Longines' aviation history. The flyback function, COSC-certified movement, and pilot watch design make it appealing to watch enthusiasts who appreciate horology and heritage, even though it's thicker and costs more.

Ultimately, the best watch for you depends on whether you value the Conquest's versatility and modern design or the Spirit Flyback's technical complexity and historical significance.