Watches, Spies and Archives, T+T Founder Andrew McUtchen talks to Longines CEO Matthias Breschan

When Matthias Breschan speaks you could swear that he’d founded Longines 189 years ago, such is the passion that the Austrian CEO has for the brand. Having taken the reins of the Swiss powerhouse in July 2020, Matthias is no stranger to both heritage and modern watchmaking. He joined the Swatch Group in 1996, working with Hamilton and Rado, but we get the distinct impression that Longines has been deep in his heart for a long time. While visiting Switzerland, our own boss Andrew had the pleasure of meeting with Matthias and picking his brain about the brand, and more importantly, its stories.

Longines is quite unique among Swatch Group companies as it has held such a strong brand identity for so long, and is totally in touch with its own history. Matthias touches on how the brand has a very evenly spread demographic, not just in the gender of customers but also in the style of watches they buy, proving that the Longines style is equally attractive in both the sports and dress senses. Whether you’re a Longines fan or not, this interview is definitely worth your time, covering topics such as how an early Evidenza was tangled up in an espionage-laden love affair, and a bombshell announcement for the future of the company.

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[DrWesterdahl]

An excellent interview with Matthias Breschan. I learned many new things about Longines during this interview. Longines is my favorite watch brand and I own seven different Longines watches in my collection and love them all. Such rich history about Longines which is a big interest to me and as stated in this interview, the stories need to get out more to this current generation of watch enthusiasts. I appreciate the fact that Longines watches have great value and quality for the price, and that they keep them more affordable compared to other watch brands. I hope Longines keeps the quality and value for price concept so that more people can afford to personally own and wear a Longines watch to make this great watch brand better known worldwide. Keep up the great work Longines!

[ToolwatchBoutique]

The perfect CEO for such a history-rich company. Very authentic and sympathetic guy!

[jonnypescado]

What a wonderful interview; one of the best I've seen with anyone. Definitive questions & lush, rich answers. Thank you for this.

[craigdlazarus]

Andrew - fascinating insights from the CEO. Great Einstein story. I don't have a Longines in my collection but it has to happen for sure. The Spirit in Titanium looks killer. Great content. keep 'em coming!

[jonaskalen]

Can’t wait for February! I have the Spirit Chrono and the Legend Diver Bronze.

[morgan]

Very cool. I want a Longines (the wife has one). But I need to find just the right piece.

[zillsburyy]

the OMEGA story is better. nice interview