LONGINES • ULTRA-QUARTZ • 1969

In 1969, Longines made history.
On August 22nd, the Swiss brand unveiled the Ultra-Quartz — the very first quartz wristwatch ever officially announced. While Seiko’s Astron would become the first quartz watch sold commercially, Longines had beaten everyone to the announcement with something entirely unique: the Caliber 6512, developed in-house using only discrete components. No integrated circuits. No shortcuts. Just pure electronic innovation.
This “cybernetic” architecture made the Ultra-Quartz one of the most ambitious horological projects of its time — and one of the most complex. Its design reflects the era perfectly: a faceted steel case, sunburst blue dial, bold applied indices and luminous hands. Futuristic, in every sense.
Only a few hundred examples of the Ultra-Quartz were ever produced, and very few remain in such well-preserved, working condition today.
An icon of the quartz revolution — and a true collector’s piece.