As we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake on January 29, 2025, Longines has found a beautiful way to honor the occasion. The legendary watchmaker, in collaboration with Chinese artist Wu Jian’an, has created a special edition timepiece that’s as meaningful as it is elegant. This limited-edition watch combines cultural storytelling, artistic design, and cutting-edge watchmaking.
The watch itself is part of Longines’ Conquest Heritage collection, known for its clean, timeless style rooted in the 1950s. What sets this edition apart is its fiery gradient red dial – a nod to the auspicious and celebratory palette of the Lunar New Year. The red, symbolic of good fortune and joy, is paired with gilt hands and gold-tone indexes that shimmer subtly, catching the light in just the right way. It’s a bold yet refined look, perfectly balancing festive energy with classic sophistication.
But the real treasure lies on the caseback. Wu Jian’an has created an intricate engraving of a snake holding a Lingzhi mushroom in its mouth. This isn’t just any design – it’s a scene inspired by a famous Chinese legend, “The White Snake,” specifically the story of “Stealing the Immortal Herb.” The Lingzhi mushroom has long been a symbol of vitality and longevity in Chinese culture, while the snake embodies wisdom and transformation. Together, they tell a story of renewal and prosperity – a fitting theme for the New Year.
The attention to detail doesn’t stop at the artwork. Every aspect of this watch reflects Longines’ commitment to quality and innovation. Inside the stainless steel case is the Longines L888.5 calibre movement. It’s self-winding, with a 72-hour power reserve and advanced magnetic resistance that’s ten times greater than standard requirements. This means the watch isn’t just beautiful; it’s built to perform.
The case itself measures 40mm – versatile enough to suit a variety of wrists – and is topped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The crystal is treated with anti-reflective coating on both sides, so the vibrant red dial stays easy to read in any light. Finishing the look is a textured black alligator leather strap, which adds a touch of understated elegance and ensures the watch pairs effortlessly with both formal and casual outfits.
Longines has made only 2,025 of these special timepieces, marking the year of its release. Each watch is individually numbered, making it a true collector’s item. Priced at $3,150, it’s available now through Longines’ official website.
This isn’t just a watch – it’s a piece of art, a slice of tradition, and a celebration of a new beginning. It feels like the perfect way to honor the Year of the Snake: with something that’s timeless, meaningful, and exquisitely crafted. For anyone looking to start 2025 with a bit of elegance and a lot of symbolism, this timepiece offers just that. Also be sure to check our list of the most expensive watches in the world.
