Year of the Horse
Gaining Momentum: The Longines Master Collection “Year of the Horse” Edition
In the world of horology, the “Lunar New Year” watch has become a tradition of its own. While many brands lean into overt, dial-side illustrations, Longines has taken a more sophisticated, “inside-out” approach for the Year of the Horse 2026. This limited edition of 2,026 pieces is a masterclass in restraint, blending Longines’ deep equestrian heritage with high-art Chinese symbolism.
The “Sunrise” Dial: A Study in Red and Gold
At first glance, the watch commands attention with its sunray red gradient dial. In Chinese culture, red symbolizes prosperity and joy, but the execution here is poetic. The “fumé” effect—bright cherry red at the center fading to deep black at the edges—is designed to mimic the atmospheric glow of a sunrise, an emblem of new beginnings.
The contrast is heightened by:
Gilt 2N applied indexes that catch the light like polished gold.
Polished leaf-shaped hands that provide a soft, elegant counterpoint to the bold dial.
A Moonphase complication at 6 o’clock, reflecting the lunisolar calendar that governs the Chinese New Year.
The Secret on the Rotor: Peon Xu’s “Galloping Horse”
The true soul of this timepiece is hidden behind the sapphire caseback. Longines collaborated with the Peon Art Museum to feature the work of Peon Xu, a revolutionary Chinese painter known for blending Western realism with traditional ink techniques.
Engraved on the yellow gilt rotor is Xu’s iconic “Galloping Horse.” As the wearer moves, the rotor spins, making the horse appear to gallop in perpetual motion. Accompanying the artwork is the calligraphy “奔马得势”, which translates roughly to “a horse gaining momentum.” It is a powerful metaphor for success and forward drive—a fitting theme for a collector who appreciates the “pure” mechanics of time.
Technical Purity
Beyond the aesthetics, the “Year of the Horse” is a robust mechanical performer:
Caliber: L899.5 (Automatic).
Power Reserve: A generous 72 hours.
Precision: Equipped with a monocrystalline silicon balance-spring, providing excellent resistance to magnetism and temperature fluctuations.
Case: 42mm stainless steel, maintaining the classic proportions of the Master Collection.
Final Verdict: A Collector’s “Purity” Piece
For a collector focused on “Horological Purity,” this Longines is more than a holiday novelty. It bridges the gap between a dress watch and a cultural artifact. It doesn’t shout its theme from the dial; instead, it saves its most beautiful secret for the person wearing it. It’s a watch built for those who understand that true momentum is felt, not just seen.
On a Personal Note
Crossing the threshold into the luxury pool is a definitive “before and after” moment for me. While I cherish the stories behind my rugged Casios and the vintage charm of my Bulova, this Longines Master Collection Year of the Horse feels like my true graduation into the world of high horology. It is my first piece that marries a world-class mechanical movement with a legacy that is deeply personal. Born in 1978, I am an Earth Horse, a sign defined by stability and a grounded perspective. As we enter 2026—the year of the Fire Horse—this acquisition feels like a cosmic alignment. It isn’t just a new addition to the box; it’s a 42mm tribute to my own journey, echoing the “momentum” of my zodiac sign and marking my arrival as a serious curator of time.