Laco Augsburg and Aachen Grun

In the annals of horological history, few names resonate as powerfully as Laco. For decades, Laco has been synonymous with the iconic Flieger, a timepiece born from necessity and refined into an enduring symbol of aviation heritage. With the unveiling of the Augsburg and Aachen Grün, Laco once again proves that it is not merely content to rest on its laurels, but rather, it seeks to redefine the boundaries of watchmaking while staying true to its roots.



From its humble beginnings in 1925, Laco emerged as one of five companies entrusted with the production of the Beobachtungsuhren, or observation watches, for the German Luftwaffe during World War II. These watches, with their distinctive dial layouts and emphasis on legibility, became essential tools for pilots navigating the treacherous skies of war. The "Type A" dial, with its straightforward hours, minutes, and central seconds configuration, and the "Type B" dial, characterized by its outer minute track, are two iconic styles that continue to define the Flieger aesthetic to this day. Laco's unwavering commitment to quality and precision, even under the most challenging circumstances, earned it a reputation for excellence that endures to this day.

In the decades that followed the war, Laco continued to evolve, adapting to the changing landscape of watchmaking while remaining true to its core values. The Flieger, with its utilitarian design and robust construction, found new admirers among watch enthusiasts who appreciated its no-nonsense approach to timekeeping. Laco's dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail ensured that each Flieger that left its workshops was a testament to German engineering at its finest. Today, Laco is more than just a watchmaker; it is a custodian of history, a guardian of tradition, and a purveyor of precision.



The Augsburg and Aachen Grün watches represent a bold new chapter in Laco's ongoing narrative. These timepieces, each limited to just 250 pieces worldwide, pay homage to Laco's rich heritage while embracing contemporary design elements. The watches feature a striking green dial, a color that evokes both the lush landscapes of Germany and the verdant hues of military camouflage. The brushed stainless steel case, with its polished bezel, exudes a sense of understated elegance, while the gray calfskin strap with green stitching adds a touch of rugged sophistication. The result is a watch that is both classic and modern, a perfect fusion of form and function.

Both the Augsburg Grün and Aachen Grün watches are not merely timekeeping devices; they are meticulously crafted instruments that exude an air of refined sophistication. At first glance, the dial is the undeniable centerpiece. The matte green hue is far from ordinary; it's a deep, rich forest green that hints at both adventure and heritage. The matte finish adds a subtle depth, playing with light in a way that glossy dials simply cannot. This green canvas serves as the backdrop for the stark white Superluminova C1 numerals and indices, creating a striking contrast that ensures effortless legibility in any lighting condition.



The hour and minute hands, framed in gleaming silver, provide a subtle yet impactful counterpoint to the dial's matte finish. The seconds hand, a slender needle of polished metal, adds a dynamic element as it gracefully sweeps around the dial. Together, these hands create a harmonious dance of light and shadow, enhancing the watch's visual appeal. The choice of Superluminova C1 for the hands and indices is not merely a stylistic decision; it's a functional one. This high-performance luminescent material ensures that the time remains visible even in the darkest of environments, a nod to the Flieger's roots as a tool watch.

The case of the Augsburg and Aachen Grün is a masterclass in understated elegance. Crafted from brushed stainless steel, it boasts a 42mm diameter that strikes the perfect balance between wrist presence and everyday wearability. The brushed finish, with its subtle grain, adds a touch of ruggedness that complements the watch's military-inspired aesthetic. The polished bezel, a gleaming ring that encircles the dial, introduces a touch of refinement, elevating the watch's overall look. The crown, with its knurled edges and engraved Laco logo, is a pleasure to operate, providing a tactile connection to the watch's mechanical heart.



Speaking of the mechanical heart, the Augsburg and Aachen Grün are powered by the Laco 2S automatic movement, based on the reliable Miyota 82S0 caliber. This movement, visible through the sapphire crystal case back, is a testament to Laco's commitment to quality and precision. With a power reserve of 42 hours and a hacking seconds function, the Laco 2S ensures accurate timekeeping and ease of use. For those seeking even greater performance, an upgrade to the Laco 31 movement, offering a power reserve of over 60 hours, is also available.

The gray calfskin strap, with its green stitching, is the perfect finishing touch. The vintage leather, with its unique patina and character, adds a touch of warmth and personality to the watch. The green stitching, a subtle yet impactful detail, ties the strap seamlessly to the dial's verdant hue. The strap's comfortable fit and classic style make it suitable for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.



In the world of watch collecting, it's rare to find a timepiece that effortlessly blends heritage with modernity, ruggedness with refinement, and affordability with exclusivity. The Laco Augsburg and Aachen Grün watches, with their retail price of $540.00, achieve this delicate balance with aplomb. They are watches that tell a story, watches that evoke a sense of adventure, and watches that will undoubtedly become cherished heirlooms. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of horology, the Augsburg and Aachen Grün are sure to captivate your imagination and leave a lasting impression. They are a testament to Laco's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the Flieger.