When Laco introduced the Aachen, they aimed to capture the essence of the original B-Uhr navigation watches that were issued to Luftwaffe pilots during World War II. The Aachen is not a direct reissue but a contemporary adaptation, sized for modern wrists and equipped with today's materials. The reference 861891.2 is the standard black-dial version on a brown leather strap, and it's a perfect starting point for anyone interested in pilot watches.
Design and Dial
The dial is a masterclass in legibility. The matte black surface is punctuated by large white Arabic numerals, a distinctive triangle with two dots at 12 o'clock, and a minute track that runs along the outer edge. The date window at 6 o'clock is discreetly integrated, maintaining the symmetry of the dial. The hands are the classic 'flieger' style—broad, sword-shaped, and filled with Super-LumiNova X1, which glows brightly in low light. The lume application is generous, ensuring excellent night-time readability.
The case is brushed stainless steel, with a polished bezel that adds a touch of refinement. The sapphire crystal is domed and treated with an anti-reflective coating, reducing glare and enhancing the dial's clarity. The caseback is solid, engraved with the Laco logo and historical details, a nod to the watch's provenance.
Movement and Performance
Inside beats the Laco 200, a modified ETA 2824-2. This is a workhorse movement known for its reliability and ease of service. It operates at 28,800 vph, offering a smooth sweep and a power reserve of 38 hours. The movement is decorated with perlage and a blued screws, visible through the display caseback—though the Aachen has a solid caseback, so you'll need to remove it to see the finishing. The date changes crisply at midnight, and the crown action is smooth.
In terms of accuracy, our test unit averaged -3 seconds per day, well within acceptable parameters. The movement is not COSC-certified, but for everyday use, it's more than sufficient. The 100m water resistance means you can wear it swimming or in the rain without worry.
Wearability and Comfort
The 42mm case is a sweet spot for many wrists, though the 50mm lug-to-lug might be a stretch for those with under 6.5-inch wrists. The leather strap is thick and padded, with a signed pin buckle. It breaks in quickly and conforms to the wrist, making the watch feel secure without being tight. The overall weight is moderate, and the case's profile is slim enough to slide under a shirt cuff.
I wore the Aachen for a week, alternating between office and weekend activities. It never felt obtrusive, and the legibility was appreciated during outdoor excursions. The lume lasted through the night, and the date was easy to read at a glance.
Value and Alternatives
At an MSRP of $850, the Aachen competes with other entry-level fliegers like the Stowa Flieger 40 and the Archimede Pilot 42. It offers a similar package, but Laco's historical pedigree gives it an edge in authenticity. If you're willing to spend more, the IWC Mark XVIII offers a more refined finish, but at triple the price. For a budget option, the Orient Pilot provides a decent alternative, but lacks the heritage and finishing.
Pre-owned, the Aachen can be found for around $600-$750, making it a smart buy for those who want a reliable pilot watch without the premium. It's not an investment piece, but it holds its value well.
Conclusion
The Laco Aachen is a well-rounded pilot watch that delivers on its promise of heritage, functionality, and value. It's a watch you can wear daily, travel with, and appreciate for its design. While it may not have an in-house movement or a display caseback, it excels in the areas that matter most: legibility, comfort, and reliability. For the young collector looking to start a serious collection, the Aachen is an excellent choice.
