The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Longines added blue-dial versions of both the Spirit Pilot and Spirit Pilot Flyback in 2026. The standard Pilot is the pared-back choice: three hands, no date and an automatic movement. The Flyback adds a manually wound chronograph and a blue ceramic bezel insert, with a substantial price increase. The color is new; that difference in purpose is what should guide the choice.
What changed in the 2026 blue editions?
Both watches receive matte blue lacquer dials. On the Flyback, the blue treatment extends to a matching ceramic bezel insert. These are color variants of the existing models, rather than a new shared watch design. The phrase “best” is an editorial judgment, not an objective ranking.
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The three-hand Spirit Pilot retains the simplified layout introduced with its 2025 redesign: applied Arabic numerals and gold-colored hands, without a date window or the five applied stars found on the earlier three-hand Spirit. The Flyback keeps its chronograph layout and rotating countdown bezel.
Spirit Pilot or Spirit Pilot Flyback?
| Specification | Spirit Pilot | Spirit Pilot Flyback |
|---|---|---|
| Case diameter | 39 mm | 39.5 mm |
| Thickness | 11.5 mm | 13.4 mm |
| Lug-to-lug | 47.2 mm | 47.4 mm |
| Movement and winding | Automatic Longines L888.4 | Manually wound Longines L792.4 |
| Power reserve | 72 hours | 68 hours |
| Chronometer certification | COSC | COSC |
| Blue bezel insert | No | Blue ceramic |
| U.S. price reported in September 2026, rubber strap | $2,700 | $5,250 |
| U.S. price reported in September 2026, bracelet | $3,100 | $5,550 |
The Pilot is the more straightforward daily-wear option if you want a clean dial, automatic winding and a smaller, thinner case. Longines’ 2025 launch description specifies a silicon balance spring, COSC certification, 72-hour reserve, screw-down case back and 100 m water resistance for the 39 mm Spirit Pilot. The 2026 report gives the blue version a screw-down crown as well.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
The Flyback is for buyers who will use the chronograph and countdown bezel, not simply those who want a blue dial. A flyback chronograph can reset and restart timing in one pusher press. Swatch Group’s October 2, 2025 release explains: “Unlike a traditional chronograph, where the seconds hand has to be stopped, reset, and restarted, the flyback function enables the hand to return instantly to zero and start measuring time again with a single press of the pusher.” The Flyback has a column-wheel mechanism and sapphire display back, according to the September 2026 report.
Which one makes more sense for your wrist and budget?
Choose the Spirit Pilot if
- You prefer a three-hand watch without a date or chronograph subdials.
- You want automatic winding and the longer stated power reserve.
- You are prioritizing a slimmer case and a lower purchase price.
Choose the Spirit Pilot Flyback if
- You will make practical use of the flyback chronograph and rotating countdown bezel.
- You prefer a manually wound watch and want the blue ceramic bezel to match the dial.
- You are comfortable with the higher reported price and slightly thicker case.
The case diameters are close, but the Flyback is 1.9 mm thicker; lug-to-lug measurements are nearly identical. Those figures help frame fit, but they cannot establish comfort on an individual wrist. No hands-on comparison of these blue editions is established here, so treat the value proposition above $5,000 as a personal decision rather than a tested verdict.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What do the blue Spirit Pilot watches cost?
The September 25, 2026 report lists U.S. asking prices of $2,700 on rubber and $3,100 on bracelet for the Spirit Pilot, versus $5,250 on rubber and $5,550 on bracelet for the Flyback. Longines’ U.S. collection page also displayed Spirit Pilot listings in the $2,700–$3,100 range when accessed. These are time- and market-sensitive figures; confirm the price and configuration on the Longines U.S. Spirit Pilot collection page before buying. Prices and availability may differ in other regions.
Longines’ U.S. collection information describes Spirit Pilot movements as having silicon balance springs and COSC certification, and states a five-year guarantee in its movement information. Check the terms and coverage for the specific reference and country rather than assuming identical warranty treatment across markets.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Is the blue version a new Spirit model?
It is best understood as a color refresh. The core decision remains between the no-date, automatic three-hand Pilot and the more complex, manually wound Flyback. The September 2026 report does not establish exact reference numbers or confirmed current stock for the blue variants, so verify both with Longines or an authorized retailer before placing an order.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
