Longines HydroConquest Owner Review : Pleasant, readable and efficient

While dive watches are currently flooding the market (a bit too much for my liking), over 10 years ago I wanted to buy my first watch of this type without breaking the bank. That's how I came across Longines, somewhat by chance, but with the reputation that came with it, despite its less-than-ideal positioning at the time, given its history. The Hydro Conquest is a classic, and this one is a quartz (at the time, quartz and mechanical movements were identical, but the mechanical cost 50% more... I didn't see the point in upgrading). In use, it's a very comfortable watch to wear, highly legible, and relatively discreet. Regarding the steel bracelet and case, I must admit that it has developed a nice patina over time, more so than other watches in my collection from the same era. The polished central link, in particular, has aged beautifully. Finally, I particularly regret the loss of color (poor UV protection?) on the bezel, which was originally a deep blue (like the sea, yes, really!), matching the dial, and is now much lighter, to the point of being rather dull. Surprisingly, unlike the bracelet and case, the bezel has remained very crisp and scratch-free: you can't have everything. Today, a new Longines Ultra-Chron Heritage has caught my eye. Proof that I still have fond memories of the brand… even if it's not perfect.