Arnold & Son Launches Longitude Titanium With Seafaring Inspirations

Swiss luxury watchmaker Arnold & Son has released the Longitude Titanium, a new sports watch collection that draws design cues from maritime exploration and chronometer history. The COSC-certified chronometer combines a contemporary 42.5mm titanium case with nautical aesthetic elements paying homage to the brand's heritage.

The case shape takes its smooth, curved lines from the hulls of modern sailing yachts. The sloped middle section evokes a ship's waterline, while the rounded caseback resembles a keel. The 60 notches along the bezel's base recall the traditional fluted rings found on vintage marine chronometers used for celestial navigation.

Mechanical enthusiasts will appreciate the view through the caseback of the in-house A&S6302 movement, which has earned chronometer certification from the COSC for its precision. It features a 22K gold oscillating weight carved in the shape of a historical English frigate prow parting waves. Engravings on the weight periphery mimic those found on sextant scales used in celestial navigation.

The self-winding caliber operates at a modern 4Hz beat rate and amasses a 60-hour power reserve while showcasing haute horology finishing traditions. This includes chamfered bridges with Arnold & Son's signature 'Rayons de la Gloire' Geneva Stripe motif. Each step from initial design to final assembly and casing occurs in-house at their manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds.

Vertical brushed dials continue the sailing influence, mimicking the vertical layout of 18th century marine chronometer dials designed by English watchmaker John Arnold. An angled power reserve indicator sits at 12 o'clock, with central hours/minutes and a prominent small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock - a trademark configuration established by Arnold.

Three limited edition dial colors are available: a sandy golden "Kingsand" tone, ocean blue, and fern green - each referencing landscapes in Arnold's birthplace of Cornwall. Luminescent coatings ensure nighttime legibility.

The dials are matched with an integrated titanium bracelet made of curved, domed links that seamlessly blend brushed and polished surfaces for a flowing wrist presence. A bonus rubber strap is included, secured by a screw-down crown that provides 100 meters of water resistance.

With the Longitude Titanium, Arnold & Son has created a robust sports watch design inspired by humanity's maritime history and quest for accurate timekeeping - interpreting these concepts with elegant curves, refined materials and watchmaking pedigree.

Photos: arnoldandson.com