I don’t pretend to know everything about watches. I do however think that learning in the world of horology doesn’t stop and more importantly, many lessons have been and will continue to be learned along the way. Many pieces have come and gone, many with a pleasant good riddance for a grander piece, a grander scheme and sometimes with the future in mind. However, the only piece that I had made way for and to then regret flipping it after less than a week, then re-buying it within two weeks, is this one… the Longines Legend Diver L37744506.

Re-editions of vintage pieces will always bring mixed feelings. I have mixed feelings simply because I don’t know enough about them hence the acquisition of a modern interpretation to fill that void. This 60s inspired release of this iconic piece has been crafting a watch tan on my wrist more often than not and has been in its re-release form since 2007, originally without a date window and most recently with one. And this is where the biggest controversy lies. Personal choice will obviously dictate, but for someone like me, the practicality of a date window cannot be understated.

Measuring at a modern 42mm, and with a sensual deep black lacquered dial under a domed sapphire crystal that shimmers and shines on the wrist, this piece differentiates with its “Super Compressor” style casing made popular back in the 60s and 70s. Dual crowns and a screw down caseback gives us the 300m rating compared to the old days of the compression case. Thickness is a respectable 13.5mm for a diver. Its heart has the constant beat of an ETA 2824-2 which considering the price, is the perfect choice.

And this is the where the Longines Legend Diver L37744506 gets measured. A vintage release, a story and multiple strap options at a price more often under $3k can’t be overlooked. It’s simply the best value diver on the market.