News: Longines Launches A New Majetek In Titanium

Longines launched a modern rendition of its historically inspired Pilot Majetek watch just last year, capturing no small amount of throwback magic in the process. The new Majetek hit all the classic notes of the original design, which hails from the ‘30s, when it was used by Czech pilots. At the same time, the watch was presented in a modern package that simplified some of the more ornate features of the look. It was a welcome nod to the brand’s history, and a truly unique take on the pilot watch formula. There was just one consistent gripe with the modern Majetek, and that was the move to a 43mm case from the original’s 40mm footprint. This week, Longines takes a step in a more wearable direction for the model, moving it from a steel case, to one rendered in grade 5 titanium.

The latest Majetek is the most modernized take on the design yet, with the light gray case framing a matte grained black dial for something of a stealth look. This is further aided by the raised numerals, hands, and bezel pointer (or Starting Time Indicator) each receiving a helping of light gray Super LumiNova. The theme comes together beautifully here while holding on to the classic design cues, such as the wide coin-edge bezel. It all works way better than you might expect, and proves that this design works even outside of its comfort zone.

The Majetek is an historic watch, with the name derived from “Majetek Vojenské Správy” or “Property of the Military” in Czech, a reference to the pilots making use of it. The design is function-forward, with a highly legible layout incorporating a numeral for each hour, and subsidiary seconds positioned at 6 o’clock. The calling card here is the wide cushion case with a relatively flat rotating bezel assembly placed on top. The bezel used a Starting Time Indicator, a small triangle that hung over the dial, to measure units of time. 

This bezel design and function has been carried through to the modern Majetek, and remains unchanged here. The wide case still measures 43mm in diameter, however the use of titanium should go a long way in creating a more wearable experience, which is a good thing all around. At a glance, this is a design that may appear antiquated, but Longines has reinvented it in a remarkably effective manner. While the bezel and its pointer may not be quite as compelling a feature as they once were to pilots in the 1930s, they bring a certain charm to the watch without compromising the dial. 

Just 1,935 pieces of the new Majetek in titanium will be produced, a nod to the year it was introduced. Longines is using its proprietary automatic Caliber L893.6 under the closed, engraved caseback, which is anti-magnetic, and offers 72 hours of power reserve. One detail I’m particularly fond of is the technical fabric strap being used here, but I have a feeling this one will work well on a number of strap options. Pricing on the titanium Majetek is set at $5,000, and it will come with a special Heritage box.