Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm GMT

Good Things Come to Those that Wait

The Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm is a remarkable timepiece that captures the essence of adventure and pays tribute to the brand’s rich heritage of aviation. Largely faithful to its progenitor–the 2022 Zulu Time (42mm)–the watch is a case of “ask and thou shall receive.” Aficionados who might have hesitated to pull the trigger on the original, due to its size, will have a clear line of sight now. With its robust construction, functional design, and precise timekeeping capabilities, this watch is a worthy companion for globetrotters and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm GMT Watch Review — ^{Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm @calibre321}

Key Features of the Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm GMT

One of the standout features of the Spirit Zulu Time 39 GMT is its dual-time functionality, allowing the wearer to keep track of two time zones simultaneously—or up to three with the use of its bi-directional 24-hour bezel. This feature is especially useful for frequent travelers or individuals who communicate daily with people across different time zones. The Zulu Time function is seamlessly integrated into the watch’s design, with its jumping hour hand, adding both practicality and a touch of elegance.

This time around, the watch boasts a 39mm stainless steel case, which strikes a perfect balance between modern proportions and classic appeal. It has a 21mm lug width and is 13.5mm thick, taking into account the domed sapphire crystal. The combination of brushed and polished finishes gives the case a sophisticated look, while the robust construction ensures durability and water resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet). The screw-down crown adds an extra layer of protection, contributing to the overall reliability of the timepiece.

“Gilty” Pleasure

The colourway featured here is called “Chocolate Brown,” but that hardly does justice to the oxidised copper colour of the ceramic bezel insert—which can appear in shades of hickory and walnut, or even a red-tinged black in certain light. It melds seamlessly into the angle of the sapphire crystal, forming a gentle unobstructed dome. I particularly like the use of 18k gold on the coin edge bezel, which is picked up again in the oversized crown.

The dial of the Spirit Zulu Time 39 is clean, legible, and reminiscent of traditional aviator watches. The sandblasted anthracite background serves as an excellent backdrop for the contrasting gold-coloured Arabic numerals and old radium Super-LumiNova-coated hands, ensuring optimal readability in various lighting conditions. The gilt appears again in the chapter ring, which is inset with similarly coloured printed diamonds—and once again in the applied logo and the line of Admiralty stars. The arrow-tipped GMT hand for the second time zone adds a distinctive touch and enhances the watch’s functionality.

COSC Certified L844.4

Powering the Spirit Zulu Time is the COSC-certified automatic Caliber L844.4, based on the ETA A31.L01 and made exclusively for Longines. This self-winding movement offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours, ensuring reliable timekeeping even during extended periods on your bedside table. It is also outfitted with a silicon balance spring and a bevy of other anti-magnetic elements. These updates ensure that the watch is ISO 764 certified against fields of 600 to 800 Gauss.

The Spirit Zulu Time is complemented by a comfortable and stylish stainless steel bracelet or a high-quality leather strap, both of which enhance the watch’s overall aesthetic and wearing experience. The bracelet features a secure folding clasp, while the leather strap is equipped with a double security deployant clasp and micro adjustment buckle, ensuring a snug and adjustable fit. Both use Longines’ quick-change system. In particular, the Chocolate Brown reference is also available on a khaki-coloured NATO. Other colourways will also include Blue, Green, and Black.

Specs

Case	316L Stainless Steel 39mm Diameter 13.5mm Thick 21mm Lug Width Six-Screw Case Back & Screw Down Crown 24-Hour Bidirectional Bezel /w Ceramic Insert 100m Water Resistance
Dial & Crystal	Curved Sapphire Crystal /w AR Applied Indices Old Radium Super-LumiNova
Movement	Longines L844.4 “Jumping-Hour” GMT COSC & ISO 764 Certified Date Complication @ 6 21 Jewels 25 200bph 72-Hour Power Reserve
Strap	Stainless Steel Bracelet with Milled Clasp Leather /w Deployant Strap

Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm GMT

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Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm GMT Watch — ^{Designed for globetrotters @calibre321}

Of Interest

No matter what you may have read elsewhere, size matters. Over the last two years, Longines has had an incredible run with the likes of the Spirit, the Ultrachron diver, and, of course, the original Zulu Time—which was one of my favourite releases of 2022. They have continued to hit dingers this year with the Pilot Majetek and the stunning Flyback Chronograph. However, if there has been a criticism to be made, it was always that the watches left the smaller wristed wanting. Longines remedied this with the 37mm Spirit, and now again with the 39mm Zulu Time.

One could argue that the brand is listening to its fan base. And this may be so. However, what is more than likely true is that a watchmaker with the clout—and budget—of Longines, can make watches to suit every wrist. And that this has been the plan all along.

Quibbles

Given the quality of the watch itself, it is a bit disappointing to find push-pin links in the bracelet. The clasp too is a little plain. I would expect an on-the-fly micro-adjust ratcheting system at this level. I am a big fan of their deployant strap buckle, for example. With me, this watch would live on leather and NATOs. However, with a 21mm lug width, choice will be somewhat restricted.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39 GMT is a sharp-looking timepiece that seamlessly blends functionality, style, and a rich aviation heritage. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, an aviation enthusiast, or simply appreciate a well-crafted watch, the Spirit Zulu Time 39 offers a compelling package. This new colourway, in particular–which did not exist in the original Zulu Time lineup–adds an air of sophistication and glamour to the watch. With its GMT functionality, robust construction, and elegant design, this watch will make a reliable and stylish companion for all your global adventures.

Pricing & Availability

The watch will retail for $3150USD on the bracelet and $3050USD on leather. The two-tone featured here will start at $4200US on leather or a NATO and $4300USD on the bracelet. For more information, please visit the brand website.

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About the author

Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.

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