Longines has unveiled its limited-edition Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake watch, a stunning tribute to the Chinese Zodiac that embodies the elegance, wisdom, and transformation the snake symbolizes. Limited to 2,025 pieces worldwide, this 40mm stainless steel timepiece celebrates the incoming Year of the Snake with a vibrant red dial, drawing on the rich tradition of lunar year releases from the renowned Swiss watchmaker. In a nod to the rich cultural heritage of China, Longines collaborated with Chinese artist Wu Jian’an, whose design is beautifully etched on the case back. The engraving features a snake clutching a Lingzhi mushroom, symbolizing longevity, health, and personal growth. Wu’s interpretation of the famous Chinese tale “The Legend of the White Snake” explores the transformation motif, adding a layer of meaning to the timepiece.
The Year of the Snake release builds on the momentum from Longines’ 2024 Lunar New Year collection, which celebrated the Year of the Dragon. While that piece featured a moon phase complication and was limited to 888 pieces, the 2025 model shifts its focus to a more traditional nod to the Gregorian calendar, with the 2,025 pieces marking the year. This connection to the number reflects the zodiac’s association with the snake and the brand’s continued commitment to offering rare, beautifully crafted watches with rich cultural relevance.
Aside from its artistic heritage, the Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake watch retains all the technical mastery of Longines’ Conquest collection. With its vintage-inspired dimensions, the stainless steel case balances elegance and wearability. The watch features gilt hands and indexes, maintaining the collection’s timeless look. Additionally, the watch is powered by a robust mechanical movement, ensuring it performs just as admirably as it looks.
The case back engraving by Wu Jian’an—entitled “Divine Snake Presents Treasure”—evokes concentric circles, symbolizing the passage of time and the continuity of life. This intricate detail is not just an artistic representation but a reflection of the watch’s philosophy, blending Longines’ history with the cultural elements of East Asia. The design of this limited edition watch speaks not only to those with a deep appreciation for fine Swiss craftsmanship but also to those who understand the more profound significance of the snake in Chinese culture.
With its refined aesthetic and profound symbolism, the Longines Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake is not just a watch; it’s an heirloom piece. Priced at $3,150, it offers collectors and watch enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a timepiece that combines artistry, tradition, and precision Swiss engineering.
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