To celebrate the Year of the Snake in 2025, Longines has unveiled a limited-edition version of its Conquest Heritage 40, reference L1.651.4.09.2. This special release merges the brand’s timeless design with cultural symbolism, creating a refined timepiece steeped in tradition and elegance. Limited to 2,025 pieces, the watch embodies the spirit of renewal and transformation associated with the Chinese zodiac’s Snake.
A Design Rooted in Tradition
The Year of the Snake holds special meaning in Chinese culture, symbolizing wisdom, elegance, and resilience. For this limited edition, Longines partnered with Chinese artist Wu Jian’an, whose intricate engraving, “Ling Snake Offering Treasure,” decorates the watch’s caseback. This motif depicts a snake holding a lingzhi mushroom—a symbol of longevity and prosperity—within a ripple-like circular design that represents the continuity of time and life.
The red lacquered dial further enhances the connection to Chinese tradition, as red signifies good fortune and joy. The applied indices and gilded dauphine hands stand out against the vibrant backdrop, providing excellent readability and a touch of sophistication.
Mechanical Excellence
At the heart of the Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake (L1.651.4.09.2) is the Longines L888 automatic movement, equipped with a silicon balance spring for enhanced precision and durability. Operating at 25,200 vibrations per hour, the movement provides an impressive 72-hour power reserve, ensuring reliable performance through the weekend and beyond.
This self-winding mechanical movement drives the watch’s central hours, minutes, and seconds hands, reflecting Longines’ commitment to functional elegance.
A Modern Case with Classic Details
The watch’s 40mm stainless steel case strikes a balance between contemporary sizing and classic proportions. With a thickness of just 10.8mm, it retains a sleek profile on the wrist, enhanced by the gently curved lugs and polished bezel.
Protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective coating, the dial remains easy to read under various lighting conditions. The caseback is engraved with the snake motif and limited-edition numbering. The watch is water-resistant to 50 meters (5 bar), making it suitable for everyday wear.
Luxury Meets Comfort
The black alligator leather strap complements the bold red dial while maintaining a timeless aesthetic. The strap is paired with a classic pin buckle, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. With a 20mm lug width, the watch offers a versatile appearance that suits both formal and casual settings.
A Celebration of Elegance and Transformation
The Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake (L1.651.4.09.2) captures the essence of the Lunar New Year, blending Longines’ horological expertise with a rich cultural narrative. From its intricate caseback engraving to the striking red dial, the watch honors the tradition of renewal and growth while embracing Longines’ legacy of elegance.
This limited edition is available in 2,025 numbered pieces, making it a collector’s item for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
For more information, visit Longines’ official website.
