Challenging the status quo isn't easy, using new strategies to overcome traditional mindsets is tough. But we are achieving ground-breaking advances.

— Dean Ho, co-founder of Kyan Therapeutics

It is such determination and resolution that drives Ho to achieving more breakthroughs in his research—the same manner to which pioneers closely associated with Longines went on to leaving an indelible mark in history.

Take American aviation pioneer and author Amelia Earhart, and French ethnologist and explorer Paul-Emile Victor, for instance. The former embarked on a solo non-stop transatlantic flight in 1932, while the latter went on polar expeditions in the 1930s. On their expeditions, both donned Longines wristwatches, which were essential timing instruments for them during an era when aviation technology was not as advanced. 

Their exploits and similar breakthroughs by other exceptional men and women have inspired the Swiss watch brand to create the Longines Spirit collection, a range of modern timepieces with a nod to the glory days of aviation, which debuted recently. The automatic variant comes in two sizes (40mm and 42mm), while the chronograph version measures 42mm. The watch comes with matte black, grained silver or sunray blue dial, all of which are adorned with five stars—to emphasise the highest standards that Longines adheres to. There is also a Prestige edition, which comprises the self-winding three-hand/calendar Spirit watch and three interchangeable straps: steel bracelet, leather strap with buckle and brown leather Nato with buckle.

(Related: The Best New Luxury Watches For August 2020)