Posted by One of the classic Longines is the reference 9000 Conquest. Not many years ago Longines made a very nice “Heritage” version based on the original from 1950’s.
Interestingly today, Longies have several different Conquest families – Conquest classic, Conquest sport and Hydro Conquest…
Looking at the original Conquest through they eyes of today, some may be surprised to see T.W.O sports families within the Conquest line…
In today’s standard, the original Conquest is a typical dress watch, but the fact is that back in 1954 when the Conquest were launched it was as an elegant “sporty” watch!
Precision, automatic, waterproof, antimagnetic, shock protected. Yes, that was the way Longines presented the Conquest!
The Longines reference 9000 Conquest: on the wooden beam
Mine is from 1957 with a nice T.W.O-tone dial and glit applied index and hands.
It might be hard to see in these photos, but the stainless steel case is bit larger than what was the norm for dress watches back then. 35.5 mm in diameter which is not exceptional big for the time, but with thicker case and lugs.
Inside is the Calibre AS 19, protected by a screw down case back decorated with a golden Longines medallion. Some of the green enamel still present.
Personally I prefer a solid case back with a nice engraving or medallion over a see-through case back unless the movement have some exceptional features or polishing…
Here is another Longines Conquest advertisement from 1957, same year as my watch.
One interesting detail is the buckle shown in the ad. This confirms that already back in 1957 Longines signed their buckles and which style they used. More square that you often see today…
My buckle is not a perfect match, I suspect it’s a bit later than 1957 but it will have to do for now…
On the wrist, the Conquest 9000 have a great presence!
The rather short, thick lugs gives the watch a solid feel, while the gilt index and hands gives it a warm hue. Perfect for the summer!
Yes, Longines – another brand I should start look into more…
The Blomman Watch Report 