It can be boldly stated that this is a spectacular piece. It is for sure one of the watches getting the most wrist time and attention in my collection. Which says a lot since my primary collecting interest is focused on military chronos! The case of the Longines 8229-1 is a peculiar one. There are actually two variants. There is the one you see pictured here and then its brother in arms, the variant with a black bezel. That one is a more normal, even dare I say it, a laid back watch. This orange one is a strangely balanced combination of classic design elements with one of the best orange coloured bakelite bezels from the period.

To me wearing it is like blasting down a narrow countryside road with a 911…but with the RS badge on the rear. It’s got character for sure and one that is supported with a prestigious engine powering it, the revered Valjoux 72, renamed the C300 by Longines. The thing is that getting one is a challenge. Despite being in well-connected circles in Europe I waited almost 3 years for mine. I still remember the thrill of that phone call from Roberto. The hunt is what gets us collectors going, but after the crime… this one is a wonderful companion as well! It’s a good piece to wear on almost any occasion. Perfect for the hot summer »friends & beer« moments in the beach bar. But great also in the dim autumn and cold winter days to help you brighten your mood.

Wearability is incredible despite being a 41mm piece. If you’re into vintage sports automatic Heuers then this one wears like a feather. Compared to some of the design-wise comparable humongous chrono divers of the era like the Favre Leuba SeaSky or the Zenith SubSeaPilot the ease of wearing this one is even more evident. Keep in mind though that this one is not for everyone. If you’re into classic designed Longines and such from the bygone 50s or earlier, then this one is a screamer. Boy oh boy! Is this piece a stunner or what? A keeper for sure!