Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar vs Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170

In-Depth Comparison

The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar and the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Longines and Nomos are both highly respected names in watchmaking. The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar comes from Switzerland, while the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 originates from Germany. This particular Master Collection reference was introduced in 2019, while this Tangente reference debuted in 2006. The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar beats the L897 caliber offering a 64-hour power reserve running at 25,200 vph with 25 jewels. The Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 is powered by the Nomos Alpha with a 43-hour power reserve operating at 21,600 vph featuring 17 jewels. The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar wins on power reserve with a 21-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar features a 40.0mm case at 11.0mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 comes in at 37.5mm and 7.0mm thick with 47.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. The Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 42g, the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 features Sapphire crystal crystal with a Fixed polished bezel. On the wrist, the Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar comes on a Brown alligator leather strap with Folding clasp, while the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 is fitted with Horween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap featuring Pin buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar lists for $2,900 compared to $2,080 for the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170. On the secondary market, the Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar trades around $2,400 while the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 commands approximately $1,750.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar and the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Nomos Tangente 38 Date Ref. 170 is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.