Laco's legacy in crafting pilot watches takes a captivating new turn with the introduction of the Polar 39 series. These watches, available in two distinct dial variations, continue the brand's tradition of blending rugged functionality with unique aesthetics, now in a more universally wearable 39mm case size.
The Polar 39 series draws its inspiration from the stark, beautiful landscapes of the Arctic. This theme is beautifully expressed through the watches' crisp white dials, which evoke images of expansive snowfields. Contrasting with this pristine backdrop are indices that shimmer with a metallic blue luster. This subtle interplay of color, reminiscent of the way light dances on ice and water, gives the watches a dynamic character. The dial isn't a static element; it transforms with the changing light, revealing shades of blue that range from a deep navy to a vibrant azure.
Courtesy of Laco
There are two distinct models in the Polar 39 lineup, each catering to different preferences in dial layout. The Augsburg Polar 39 embraces the classic Type A pilot watch design. This means a clean, exceptionally legible dial with prominent Arabic numerals marking the hours, except for the 12 o'clock position, which is indicated by the distinctive triangle and two dots. It's a layout focused purely on delivering essential information at a glance, a characteristic highly valued in aviation.
The Aachen Polar 39, on the other hand, takes its cues from the Type B pilot watch configuration. This layout is characterized by a more complex dial arrangement. An outer ring displays the minutes in large, clear numerals, while an inner ring indicates the hours. This separation of hours and minutes was historically intended to aid pilots in precise time calculations during navigation. The Aachen Polar 39 retains this functional heritage while incorporating the Polar series' signature aesthetic touches.
Both watches maintain a cohesive visual theme through the use of Superluminova C3 Blue Line coating on the numerals and hands. During the day, this luminous material exhibits a subtle, blue tint against the white dial. However, as darkness descends, the watches transform. The Superluminova emits a vibrant turquoise-blue glow, not only ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions but also evoking the ethereal beauty of a polar night sky. This practical feature becomes a key part of the watches' overall visual identity.
Courtesy of Laco
The hands themselves are another carefully considered detail. They are thermally blued, a traditional watchmaking technique that involves heating steel to a specific temperature to achieve a deep, rich blue finish. This process not only creates a visually appealing color but also enhances the steel's resistance to corrosion. The blued hands harmonize perfectly with the shimmering blue indices, creating a cohesive and sophisticated color palette.
Encasing the dial and movement is a 39mm stainless steel case with a satin finish. This size strikes a good balance, making the watches suitable for a wider range of wrist sizes compared to their 42mm predecessors. The case features sapphire crystals on both the front and back. The exhibition case back allows a view of the automatic movement within, while the front crystal is an important element. It keeps the dial clear and safe, and it is available with a double anti-reflective coating, which is a worthwhile addition as the reflections are kept at an all time low.
At the core of the Polar 39 watches beats the
Laco 2S automatic movement. This movement is based on the Miyota 82S0, a workhorse known for its reliability and robustness. It features a hacking function, meaning the seconds hand stops when the crown is pulled out, allowing for precise time setting. For those seeking an upgraded movement,
Laco offers the option of the Laco 31 caliber. This upgraded version boasts an extended power reserve of over 60 hours, meaning the watch will continue running for a longer period when not worn. The Laco 31 also incorporates thermally blued screws, further aligning with the watches' overall color scheme.
Courtesy of Laco
Completing the pilot watch aesthetic is a brown leather strap. The leather has a slightly distressed, vintage look, adding character and emphasizing the watches' tool-watch heritage. Light-colored stitching and classic rivets further reinforce this aviation-inspired design. The strap is designed to be comfortable for everyday wear, with an arm circumference range of 15 to 20 cm. The leather will take wear, aging and developing a unique patina over time, becoming a personalized aspect of the watch. The natural variations in the leather ensure that each strap is slightly different, adding to the individual character of each timepiece.
The display case back of each Polar 39 watch is engraved with an inscription indicating its limited-edition status. Each model is restricted to a production run of just 250 pieces. This limited availability adds an element of exclusivity, transforming the watches into potential collector's items. It's a detail that underscores the special nature of this release within Laco's broader pilot watch collection.
The watches are thoughtfully packaged in a grey gift watch box with a zipper closure. This presentation adds to the overall sense of quality and makes the watches suitable for gifting or personal safekeeping. The box complements the watches' understated design, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing storage solution.
Turning our attention back to the technical specifications, the Polar 39 watches offer a water resistance of up to 5 ATM. While not designed for deep diving, this level of water resistance means the watches can withstand splashes, rain, and brief immersion in water, making them suitable for everyday wear and various activities. The lug width of 18mm provides flexibility for strap changes, allowing owners to customize the look of their watch with aftermarket straps if desired. The lug-to-lug measurement of 46.5mm is another dimension that contributes to the watches' comfortable fit on a range of wrist sizes.
Courtesy of Laco
The Laco Polar 39 watches seamlessly blend historical inspiration with contemporary design elements. They pay homage to the brand's roots in producing reliable instruments for pilots while incorporating a unique aesthetic that sets them apart. The interplay of white, blue, and luminous accents creates a visually captivating watch that is both functional and stylish. The choice between the Type A and Type B dial layouts caters to individual preferences, while the limited-edition nature of the release adds a layer of desirability.
Laco, as a brand, has a rich history dating back to 1925, situated in the German town of Pforzheim, a region renowned for its watchmaking tradition. The company gained prominence in the 1940s as one of only a handful of manufacturers authorized to produce the large, 55mm observation watches used by pilots during World War II. This heritage is deeply ingrained in Laco's DNA, and the Polar 39 series, while a modern interpretation, carries forward the spirit of those early pilot watches. The emphasis on legibility, robust construction, and functional design remains paramount.
The Polar 39 watches highlight Laco's focus on quality craftsmanship. The company's commitment to "quality over quantity" is evident in the details, from the thermally blued hands to the carefully finished case. The option to upgrade to the Laco 31 movement with its extended power reserve and blued screws further demonstrates this dedication to providing customers with choices that enhance both performance and aesthetics.
The use of Superluminova C3 Blue Line is a particularly noteworthy aspect of the Polar 39 watches. It's not just a functional element; it's a design choice that elevates the watches' visual appeal. The transition from the subtle daytime blue to the vibrant nighttime turquoise creates a captivating effect that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. It's a detail that sets these watches apart and reinforces the Arctic theme.
The choice of a 39mm case size represents a thoughtful response to current trends in the watch industry. While larger watches have been popular in recent years, there's a growing appreciation for more modestly sized timepieces. The 39mm diameter offers a versatile fit that is comfortable for a wider range of wrist sizes, while still maintaining a substantial presence on the wrist. It's a size that feels both classic and contemporary.
Courtesy of Laco
The brown leather strap, with its vintage-inspired design, complements the overall aesthetic of the Polar 39 watches. It's a strap that will likely age gracefully, developing a unique patina over time that reflects the wearer's individual experiences. The use of rivets, a traditional element in pilot watch straps, adds a touch of ruggedness and reinforces the watches' connection to their aviation heritage.
The Laco Polar 39 watches, both the Augsburg and Aachen models, are priced at $540. This price point places them within a competitive segment of the market, offering considerable value for a German-made watch with a limited-edition status, a reliable automatic movement, and unique design features. Availability begins on February 13, 2024, through Laco's official website and selected retailers. The limited production run of 250 pieces per model suggests that these watches may be in high demand among collectors and enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and well-crafted pilot watch.
Augsburg Polar 39:Case: Stainless steel, satin finish. 39.0 mm diameter, 11.55 mm height. Sapphire crystal (available with double anti-reflective coating). Exhibition case back with sapphire crystal. 5 ATM water resistance. 18.0 mm lug width, 46.5 mm lug-to-lug. 75 g weight (including strap).
Movement: Laco 2S automatic movement, based on Miyota 82S0. Hacking function. Optional upgrade: Laco 31 with >60 hour power reserve and thermally blued screws.
Dial: White. Type A layout. Numerals and indices with Superluminova C3 Blue Line (blue daytime hue, turquoise blue glow). Metallic blue shimmering indices.
Strap: Brown vintage leather with light stitching and rivets. Arm circumference: 15 - 20 cm.
Price: $540
Reference Number: 862183
Notes: Limited edition of 250 pieces. Thermally blued hands filled with Superluminova C3 Blue Line.
Aachen Polar 39:Case: Stainless steel, satin finish. 39.0 mm diameter, 11.55 mm height. Flat Sapphire crystal. 5 ATM water resistance. 18.0 mm lug width, 46.5 mm lug-to-lug. 75 g weight (including strap).
Movement: Laco 2S automatic movement, based on Miyota 82S0. Hacking function. Optional upgrade: Laco 31 with >60 hour power reserve and thermally blued screws.
Dial: White. Type B layout (outer minute track, inner hour circle). Numerals and indices with Superluminova C3 Blue Line (blue daytime hue, turquoise blue glow). Metallic blue shimmering indices.
Strap: Brown vintage leather with light stitching and rivets. Arm circumference: 15 - 20 cm.
Price: $540
Reference Number: 862184
Notes: Limited edition of 250 pieces. Thermally blued hands filled with Superluminova C3 Blue Line.