An Inspiring Legacy

Founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz and fellow watchmakers in Saint-Imier, Longines began as a traditional workshop. In 1852, Ernest Francillon took over and transformed production by bringing artisans together under one roof and introducing mechanized systems for greater quality and precision.

The Olderst Trademark In Watchmaking

To protect his timepieces from counterfeits, Ernest Francillon engraved every Longines watch with a serial number, the Longines name, and its winged hourglass symbol. Registered in 1889, the Longines trademark became a lasting symbol of authenticity and remains the oldest watch brand trademark registered with WIPO’s International Registry.