Blue dials suit chronographs especially well, and on the Longines Conquest L3.702.4.96.6 the color gives a sporty steel watch extra personality. The registers stand out against the blue, the steel case shines around it, and the overall effect is lively but never flashy.

It is built the way a Conquest should be. The 41mm steel case is rated to 300 meters, the crown screws down, and sapphire protects the dial. Inside, the Longines L442 Swiss quartz chronograph caliber gives reliable timekeeping and a stopwatch that is easy to use. Longines introduced the Conquest name in 1954, and the line still stands for sporting capability with a touch of elegance.

The blue dial is a little friendlier than black and a bit sportier than silver, which makes it a strong middle option for many buyers. It also pairs naturally with denim, navy and grey, which covers much of most wardrobes.

Blue Conquest chronograph (L3.702.4.96.6) specifications

• Case: 41mm stainless steel
• Dial: blue with chronograph counters and date
• Movement: Longines L442 quartz chronograph
• Crystal: sapphire
• Water resistance: 300 meters, screw-down crown
• Bracelet: stainless steel, 21mm lug width

Color, capability and Swiss precision in one easy package. This one is hard to fault.