Originally Posted by
AKM
I suspect it's because they wanted to properly delete both the date complication and the 12-hour chrono register and it was more cost effective to outsource with a Dubois Dépraz module, than to modify the L688. It's all about economies of scale with Longines, they tend to use the same exact movement across dozens of models and describe themselves as being a 'factory' assembling watches rather than a manufacturer.
It might even be slightly slimmer in overall height than the L688 and won't have the rotor wobble, so it may appear more refined.
I've owned a couple of modular chronos. Whilst some can be poor from the beginning, I believe that the bad rep often stems from problems later on, specifically with watchmakers who are either unable or unwilling to service the module, yet still charge the going rate for servicing a 'chronograph watch'. You can just end up pouring money down the drain, as if they decide the module is working when it goes in for service, they'll just leave it alone and then it'll pack up later on, requiring another service.
Official service centres have been known to swap the modules out and exchange them with Dubois Dépraz for a reconditioned unit.
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