The winged hourglass is a memento mori, historically symbolizing that our time on earth is fleeting. It encourages us to make the best of the time we have. In other words, time flies, and Longines has been using their version of a winged hourglass logo for generations to remind us that time is indeed precious and should be tracked with a proper timepiece. Since the 1950s, their historic flagship model has been such a watch, and Longines is launching a new heritage version in three distinct colorways.

All three are primarily made of polished stainless steel, measuring 38.5mm in diameter, 12.4mm in thickness, and 19 mm in lug width. The dials feature elegant, applied hour markers, a winged hourglass logo, and a subdial at 6 o’clock that displays a pointer date with a moon phase complication. The three sunburst dial colors are Havana beige, green, and anthracite. The latter has rose-gold-colored dial furniture, while the other two are polished steel. The watches are water-resistant to 30 meters.

Since its creation in 1957, the Flagship collection has always included an 18-carat gold medallion on its case back, featuring a caravel ship with unfurled sails. The caravel was a light sailing ship commonly used by the Spanish and Portuguese during the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries for long voyages. The Portuguese developed it to explore the coast of Africa. The caravel was known for its ability to sail effectively against the wind. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the Flagship line, and this medallion even features delicately applied blue enamel.

Powering the Flagship Heritage is an ETA-produced caliber exclusive to Longines called the L899.5. This automatic movement beats at 25,200 alternations per hour, is ISO764 magnetic resistant, has a silicon balance spring, and has a power reserve of 72 hours. The watches come on a brown, anthracite, or green alligator strap paired with a matching stainless steel tang buckle. The price is $3,050. Longines