Longines Spirit Chronograph Automatic Watch L3.820.4.73.2 User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the Longines Spirit Chronograph Automatic Watch, model L3.820.4.73.2. Please read this guide carefully to understand the features, operation, and maintenance of your timepiece. Proper care will ensure the longevity and accuracy of your watch.

Figure 1: Front view of the Longines Spirit Chronograph Automatic Watch (L3.820.4.73.2). This image displays the silver dial, chronograph sub-dials, Arabic numerals, and the brown leather strap.

2. Watch Components

Familiarize yourself with the key components of your Longines Spirit Chronograph watch:

• Crown: Used for winding the movement, setting the time, and setting the date.
• Pushers (A & B): Used to operate the chronograph functions (start, stop, reset).
• Hour, Minute, Second Hands: Indicate the current time.
• Chronograph Hands: Central chronograph second hand, 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter.
• Small Seconds Sub-dial: Continuous running seconds for timekeeping.
• Date Window: Displays the current date.
• Sapphire Crystal: Anti-reflective and scratch-resistant covering the dial.
• Leather Strap: Brown calfskin leather with a tang buckle.

Figure 2: Side view illustrating the crown and chronograph pushers. The crown is located at the 3 o'clock position, with pushers above and below it.

3. Setup and Initial Operation

3.1. Winding the Watch

Your Longines Spirit Chronograph is an automatic mechanical watch. It is powered by the movement of your wrist. If the watch has stopped or has not been worn for an extended period, it may need to be manually wound:

1. Unscrew the crown (if it is a screw-down crown) by turning it counter-clockwise.
2. Pull the crown out to position 1 (first click).
3. Turn the crown clockwise approximately 30-40 times. This will provide sufficient power reserve to start the watch.
4. Push the crown back in and screw it down securely to ensure water resistance.

3.2. Setting the Time

1. Unscrew the crown (if applicable) and pull it out to position 2 (second click). The small seconds hand will stop.
2. Turn the crown clockwise or counter-clockwise to set the hour and minute hands. To avoid confusion between AM/PM for date change, advance the hands past 12 o'clock. If the date changes, you are in the AM hours.
3. Once the desired time is set, push the crown back to position 0 and screw it down securely.

3.3. Setting the Date

The date should ideally be set when the watch hands are not between 9 PM and 3 AM to prevent damage to the date mechanism.

1. Unscrew the crown (if applicable) and pull it out to position 1 (first click).
2. Turn the crown clockwise or counter-clockwise (depending on the movement) to set the date.
3. Once the desired date is displayed, push the crown back to position 0 and screw it down securely.

3.4. Adjusting the Strap

The watch features a brown calfskin leather strap with a tang buckle. To adjust the fit:

1. Thread the end of the strap through the buckle.
2. Insert the tang (pin) into the desired hole on the strap for a comfortable fit.
3. Ensure the strap is not too tight, which can restrict circulation, or too loose, which can cause the watch to slide excessively.

Figure 3: Rear view of the watch, displaying the case back, the brown leather strap, and the tang buckle.

4. Operating the Chronograph Function

The chronograph function allows you to measure elapsed time independently of the main time display.

4.1. Starting the Chronograph

Press the upper pusher (A) once to start the central chronograph second hand. The 30-minute and 12-hour counters will also begin to advance.

4.2. Stopping the Chronograph

Press the upper pusher (A) again to stop the chronograph. The elapsed time can be read from the central second hand, the 30-minute counter, and the 12-hour counter.

4.3. Resetting the Chronograph

After stopping the chronograph, press the lower pusher (B) once to reset all chronograph hands to their zero positions.

4.4. Water Resistance

Your watch has a water resistance rating of 100 meters (330 feet). This makes it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, but not for diving. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before exposing the watch to water. Avoid operating the pushers or crown while the watch is wet or submerged.

5. Care and Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning

To maintain the appearance of your watch:

• Wipe the case and sapphire crystal with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
• For the leather strap, avoid prolonged exposure to water, direct sunlight, and harsh chemicals. Clean with a damp cloth and mild soap if necessary, then dry thoroughly.

5.2. Storage

When not wearing your watch, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and strong magnetic fields. The original watch box is ideal for storage.

5.3. Service Intervals

For optimal performance and longevity, it is recommended to have your mechanical watch serviced by an authorized Longines service center every 3-5 years. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment of the movement.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1. Watch Not Running

If the watch has stopped, it may simply need to be wound. Refer to section 3.1 "Winding the Watch". If it still does not run after manual winding, it may require professional inspection.

6.2. Time Inaccuracy

Minor variations in timekeeping are normal for mechanical watches. However, if your watch is consistently gaining or losing significant time, it may require adjustment by an authorized service center.

6.3. Chronograph Hands Not Resetting to Zero

If the chronograph hands do not return precisely to their zero positions after pressing the reset pusher (B), the watch may need calibration. This should be performed by an authorized Longines technician.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Your Longines watch is covered by a manufacturer's warranty against manufacturing defects. The specific terms and duration of the warranty are provided with your purchase documentation. Please retain your proof of purchase.

For warranty claims, service, or technical support, please contact an authorized Longines retailer or service center. Unauthorized repairs or modifications may void your warranty.

For more information, visit the official Longines website or consult your warranty card.