Raymond Weil Freelancer Automatic ChronographvsLongines Avigation Bigeye
lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures
Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Freelancer Automatic Chronograph

Avigation Bigeye
Diameter
42mm
41mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
48.7mm
Thickness
13.7mm
lowest
14.5mm
Water Resistance
100m
highest
30m
Power Reserve
46h
n/a
MSRP
n/a
$4,400
Movement
Automatic
Longines L688.5
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Raymond Weil Freelancer Automatic Chronograph for its attractive, vintage-leaning panda dial design and readable layout, resisting the urge to over-jazz aesthetics. The 42mm case is described as slim and comfortable, though one reviewer notes a 43.5mm case size as being on the larger side. Durability and build quality are highlighted, with one owner noting minor scratches after a month and another praising an 18-year-old model's longevity. The watch features a tachymeter scale, lumed baton hands, and 100m water resistance. A potential trade-off is a low power reserve, with one owner reporting it tends to run down if not worn actively. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Raymond Weil Freelancer Automatic Chronograph highly for its classic panda dial design and solid build quality.
Owners and reviewers widely praise the Longines Avigation Bigeye for its vintage military aesthetic, legible dial with a unique "big eye" subdial, and tactile chronograph pusher action. The 41mm steel case wears well, and the boxed sapphire crystal is a notable feature. However, some find the 14.45mm thickness typical for its movement, and the 30-minute sub-dial's three-minute hash marks can compromise reading speed. The stock strap is generally considered unremarkable, and the lack of drilled lugs makes strap changes less convenient. Some owners report minor QC issues with chronograph hand alignment and a loud rotor. Overall, owners rate the Longines Avigation Bigeye highly for its cohesive vintage design and appealing chronograph functionality at its price point.
The titanium case offers exceptional lightness and balance on the wrist. Reviewers did not reach a consensus on any weaknesses.
Similar watches
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
Also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.







