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Georgeb initiates a provocative discussion by presenting a visual exposé of Longines' current watch portfolio, alleging that many designs draw overly precise 'inspiration' from iconic models by other revered brands like Patek Philippe, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Cartier. His post challenges the community to judge whether these similarities constitute mere coincidence or outright copying.
'The Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 is a distinctive reinterpretation of a cushion-shaped watch originally produced by the manufacture for the American market in the 1920s. This reference is characterized by its unique diagonal display, with the crown positioned at the 1 o'clock position and the dial rotated 45 degrees clockwise. This design was historically intended to allow drivers to read the time without removing their hands from the steering wheel, offering both a functional and aesthetically unconventional presentation within the Historiques collection.
This particular iteration of the American 1921 features a case crafted from precious metal, often rose gold, with a polished finish that highlights its cushion shape and stepped bezel. The watch is typically fitted with a manual-winding mechanical movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back, providing a power reserve suitable for daily wear. The crystal protecting the dial is also sapphire, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance.
The American 1921 appeals to collectors seeking pieces with historical provenance and an unconventional design. Its distinctive orientation and vintage inspiration make it a conversation piece and a unique offering within Vacheron Constantin's contemporary lineup. Various sizes have been produced, catering to different wrist preferences while maintaining the core design principles of the original 1921 model.
Your comparison exercise could be applied to dozens and dozens of cases of close inspiration ,so to say. There are models that are very very similar in many brands,even amongst the most expensive and (supposedly)exclusive. It all depends where a brand positions itself,I don t think Longines has any claim to be in the same tier of the brands you mentioned,but maybe to offer the same iconic designs at a more affordable price. The most disturbing aspect is when iconic top brands copy each other. Mo
Hi George, Sorry, I dont see the issue. The examples you cite are no more "copies" than are even the examples you gave of the ones being "copied" look back to older designs, look back to the 70's, 60's, even back to the 1900-1940's - you'll see very few designs today that are truly "original" And even without the historical context (sadly; issues like these are sorely superficial without a historical context) I still disagree with your basic premise - even the "closest" - the hobnail calatrava -
georgeb, This is your first post on this wonderful forum, and you start by lambasting a brand with a 180 year history. I have seen similar threads on other forums. It's like you have an axe to grind or something. You should be grateful that Longines are providing watches that embody iconic design features of high end brands at a reaonable cost. Get over it. That said, I am sure the more established community of PuristS would agree, you are more than welcome here. Would love to know what are your
I was just browsing another well know forum and I came across another post this morning lambasting Longines in the same way. The poster was named JorgesB, so I guess that is you again, and apparently you posted a similar thread on that forum a month ago. Not sure what your motives are, but you will not get much traction here.
Are you a Longines owner? Don't read too much into intentions. I happen to own a few of those mentioned brands and noticed the 'similarities'. Maybe being politically correct is better. Just one thing though. I see you have 121 posts and that's 119 more than me. So I guess that explains the slightly condescending tone. The reason why 'that other forum' is going down the drain is because of all the politics and power tripping. Perhaps next time, I'll ask your permission and approval first before
It seems that there is an organized move afoot to post scurrilous things about Longines. The substance of the posts which have popped up on various websites is nonsensical. The orchestrated way in which this happening is troubling. One would have hope that the Moderators look carefully at what is going on and investigate this new poster.
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