The Rolls-Royce for ordinary people — Longines Master Collection Retrograde Moon Phase watch

　　Longines watchesWith an illustrious history behind it, Longines is now a mid-range brand in the Swatch Group and is widely recognised in mainland China. While simple models like the DolceVita and Flagship are household names, Longines also crafts complicated timepieces, such as the Master Collection Retrograde Moon Phase watch featured today.

　　The Master collection is considered Longines' high-end flagship product line, bringing together numerous classic designs such as the Master Power Reserve and Master Chronograph Moon Phase watches. Complicated functions are generally housed within this range, and the retrograde function is no exception.

　　The Longines Master Collection Retrograde Moon Phase watch is available in two distinct versions: 41 mm and 44 mm sizes. Today we are looking at the 44 mm version.

　　The stainless steel case of the watch features classic Master collection details, with the 44 mm diameter case finished in a fully mirror-polished surface. Despite its substantial size, it sits very comfortably on the wrist. By modern standards, the water resistance rating of the case is somewhat modest, offering only 30M water resistance, which appears to be due to the sapphire case back not being screw-down. Two pushers on the right side of the case control the retrograde hand display. The elegant shape of the winding crown matches the overall design.

　　True to the decorative detailing typically seen on Master collection pieces, the dial is richly appointed. It is filled with signature Master guilloché patterns and vintage-style typography, giving it an exquisitely crafted feel.

　　The distinctive twin retrograde sub-dials are positioned at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock. The date indication function is at 3 o'clock, while the hand at 9 o'clock displays a second time zone. Combined with the vertically aligned moon phase and day-night indicator, the overall dial layout is exceptionally well-balanced and symmetrical, adding a classical aesthetic.

　　Despite the multitude of functions crowded onto the dial, legibility is not compromised in the slightest, and the rhodium-plated finish is particularly striking.

　　Longines movements no longer match the glory of the first half of the last century, but thanks to the Swatch Group, Longines receives unlimited support from ETA. This Longines retrograde moon phase watch houses the L707.2 automatic movement, which is essentially derived by adding functions to the ETA2892 base calibre.

　　The version we have here is paired with a dressy leather strap, though the watch can also be fitted with a stainless steel bracelet. The steel bracelet adds overall weight while introducing a sportier vibe; by comparison, I prefer the leather strap, as it better complements the classic character of the watch.

　　Longines Master Collection watchIt is a remarkably successful product, particularly regarding its price-to-performance ratio. Complicated timepieces from luxury brands are now beyond the reach of working-class budgets, let alone those from top-tier brands. However, the Longines Master Collection Retrograde Moon Phase watch is definitely an affordable multi-function mechanical timepiece for you, with a mainland retail price of only 29200 yuan, truly earning its reputation as the 'Rolls-Royce for ordinary people'.

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