Five-Star Longines Watches: Origins, Design, Movement, and Value

The five-star Longines watch is a classic mechanical design cherished by collectors, often referred to as the “General Admiral Five-Star.” Recognized by its five-star dial layout, this signature element reflects Longines’ longstanding dedication to craftsmanship and technical excellence.

This article by Dong Ho Che Tac provides a complete overview of five-star Longines watches—their origin, materials, iconic design traits, and movement architecture. Let’s explore what makes five-star Longines watches a timeless favorite among watch enthusiasts.

1. The History of Five-Star Longines Watches

First released in the 1960s, the five-star Longines watch belonged to a premium mechanical line created to reflect Longines’ tiered movement quality. The five stars on the dial represent technical commitments to accuracy, durability, and reliability—standards that Longines publicly emphasized during that era.

The nickname “General Admiral” evokes a high-ranking military image, aiming to position the timepiece as a benchmark of reliability and prestige in the mechanical watch world.

2. Signature Characteristics of Five-Star Longines Watches

So what exactly sets a five-star Longines apart? Let’s dive into the materials, design, and movement of this distinctive model.

2.1 Materials

Many original five-star Longines watches were encased in 14k solid gold, giving them high durability and long-term collector value. The original crystal was plexiglass (mica), a vintage plastic material known for clarity and polishability. The date window frame at 3 o’clock was often gold-plated to match the case. Other parts like the crown or caseback were stainless steel or plated, depending on the version.

2.2 Design

The dial measures approximately 34.5 mm, in line with the refined aesthetics of the 1960s. Many feature sunburst brushing, offering a soft light-reflecting effect when worn.

The layout is precisely balanced, with the Longines logo and “Automatic” text at the top. The five-star cluster and the word “ADMIRAL” at 6 o’clock are defining elements. Hands and hour markers contrast well with the dial for legibility in various lighting.

2.3 Movement

These watches run on automatic mechanical movements with manual winding capability, ensuring a steady power reserve even if not worn daily.

Some versions are powered by the Swiss ETA 2892, a premium movement known for its slim profile, reliable accuracy, and durability. This movement has also been used by other high-end brands in their technically demanding models.

3. Price of a Five-Star Longines Watch

Currently, five-star Longines watches are priced around $1,060 on the pre-owned market. Since this model has long been discontinued, available pieces are rare and often circulated within collector communities.

If you’re drawn to the iconic five-star dial but cannot find an original, consider luxury fake watches. These models closely mimic the case and movement design, using reliable Swiss ETA movements with a daily deviation of ±3 seconds, plus antimagnetic and water-resistant features. Priced from just $360, they come with a 5-year movement warranty.

4. Tips for Buying a Pre-Owned Five-Star Longines

If you’re set on purchasing a vintage five-star Longines, keep these factors in mind to ensure authenticity and quality:

• Watch condition: Carefully examine the case, crystal, dial, hands, and especially the movement.
• Product origin: Prefer reputable dealers, verified sources, or trusted collectors with a transaction history.
• Warranty: Choose pieces with technical inspection or seller-backed guarantees whenever possible.

Dong Ho Che Tac has just provided you with a full overview of the history, unique features, and pricing of five-star Longines watches. If you’re interested in an imitation luxury watch of this iconic model, contact us now! Our pieces are crafted in Hong Kong with 99% accurate materials and movement fidelity. We also offer upgrades using premium materials such as solid gold and diamonds, with verification documents from trusted agencies.