by Brent Robillard
A touch of gold, a legacy of flight
The Longines Spirit Flyback in stainless steel and 18k yellow gold cap is a confident, richly detailed timepiece that continues the brand’s longstanding tradition of pairing practical aviation tools with refined aesthetics. I’ve had the opportunity to handle nearly every version of the Spirit Flyback since its debut, including the stealthy titanium variant, and each has left an impression. This new two-tone release—especially in this green dial configuration—is no exception.
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A heritage in every function
Longines isn’t just riding the coattails of aviation nostalgia. The brand has genuine claim to the history of flight. Its first flyback chronograph was produced in 1925, and by 1936, Longines had secured a patent for the flyback function—then a revolutionary tool that made it easier for pilots to time successive flight legs with the single push of a button.
Today, that same flyback complication—reborn and refined—sits at the heart of this model, powered by the exclusive Longines L791.4 automatic movement. It’s COSC-certified and boasts a robust 68-hour power reserve, a monocrystalline silicon balance spring, and beats at a crisp 28,800 vph. The central seconds chronograph hand and 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock are responsive, precise, and enjoyable to use. In short, it’s a tool watch in a tailored suit.
Key Features of the Longines Spirit Flyback in Stainless Steel and 18k
Form and Function in Balance
At 42mm in diameter, 17mm thick, and 49.5mm lug-to-lug, the case certainly has presence. It leans bold, but in a way that suits its aviation roots. There has been some chatter about the height of the watch—and yes, on paper, it reads a bit top-heavy. But in practice, I’ve found it to wear balanced and robust, especially on the included leather strap with a double security folding clasp and micro-adjustment system. It wears like it was made to be strapped into a cockpit—and with its sharp lines and solid ergonomics, it never feels cumbersome.
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The green sunburst dial is striking in direct light, shifting in tone from pine to emerald depending on the angle. Applied Arabic numerals and gilt leaf hands, filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova®, give excellent legibility without sacrificing elegance. The bi-directional rotating bezel, adorned with an 18k yellow gold cap and a green ceramic insert, adds to both its functionality and sense of luxury.
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Gold Standard Value
At around $8,000 CAD, this watch pushes into serious territory, but I still believe Longines is offering considerable value here. In fact, this two-tone Spirit Flyback reminds me a great deal of the Glashütte Original SeaQ Chronograph, which comes in at roughly $10,000 more. The fit, finish, and engineering of the Longines Spirit Flyback hold their own in every respect. It’s a watch that looks and feels like it belongs in a more exclusive price bracket.
I’ve seen the 18k pink gold and maroon version in person in New York as well, and choosing between the two isn’t easy. But if you prefer a touch of gold without going full precious metal, this yellow gold-capped version hits a satisfying sweet spot—luxurious without being flashy.
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About that clasp
One of the standout features of the Longines Spirit Flyback—and one I first experienced with the 2022 Spirit Zulu Time—is the brand’s superb micro-adjusting clasp. Among my favourite OEM clasps on the market today, it offers an impressively sleek solution for on-the-fly comfort adjustments. There’s no added bulk beneath the wrist, no finicky levers or tools—just smooth, intuitive operation that makes sizing effortless throughout the day. Every time I encounter it, I’m reminded of how well-executed small details can elevate the overall wearing experience.
The brand actually designed this clasp before it even had a comfort adjusting bracelet, like the one we find on the latest legend diver—but have yet to see appear in the Spirit Collection.
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Specs
| Case | 316L Stainless Steel 18 Karat Gold Cap 42mm Diameter 49.5mm Lug to Lug 17mm Thick 22mm Lug Width Screw Down Crown & Display Case Back 100m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Sapphire Crystal /w Double-Coated AR 2 Sub-dials Sunburst Dial Applied Numerals Super-LumiNova |
| Movement | Cal. 791.4 Central Chrono /w Flyback, Running Seconds & 30-Minute Register 28 Jewels 28 800bph 68-Hour Power Reserve |
| Strap | Leather Band /w Micro-adjusting Clasp |
Longines Spirit Flyback in Stainless Steel and 18k Gold
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Final Thoughts
The Longines Spirit Flyback L3.821.5.53.2 is a watch that stands tall—literally and figuratively. It brings meaningful history, modern movement tech, and a touch of gold together in a compelling package. While smaller watches may currently be in vogue, I find myself increasingly drawn to these more athletic, purpose-built timepieces that exude confidence without losing refinement. The Spirit Flyback delivers both, and then some.
Pricing & Availability
The Longines Spirit Flyback in Stainless Steel and 18k retails for $8000 CAD on the strap. For more information, please visit the brand website.
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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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