Manufacture History

Founded in 1925 in Pforzheim, Germany, Laco (originally Lacher & Co.) was one of the five companies contracted by the German military to produce B-Uhr navigation watches during World War II. These watches were designed for cockpit use, with a 55mm case, a large crown for gloved hands, and a highly legible dial. After the war, Laco continued making watches, and in the 1990s they began recreating their classic pilot watches for a new generation of enthusiasts. Today, Laco offers a range of models that pay homage to their wartime heritage, including the Friedrichshafen.

Movement

At the heart of the Friedrichshafen is the Laco 21, a self-winding movement based on the Miyota 821A. This Japanese caliber is known for its robustness and affordability, making it a popular choice for entry-level mechanical watches. It operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and offers a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The movement features a hacking function for precise time-setting and a hand-winding mechanism. While not a high-end in-house caliber, the Laco 21 is decorated with perlage on the plates and a blued screws, visible through the exhibition caseback. It's a reliable workhorse that can be serviced by any watchmaker, keeping ownership costs low.

Specifications

The case is brushed on the top and polished on the sides, giving it a subtle contrast. The domed sapphire crystal is a nod to the original acrylic crystals, but offers superior scratch resistance. The 100m water resistance is more than adequate for everyday wear, though not for diving.

Wrist Feel

The 42mm case wears larger than its diameter suggests, thanks to the long, straight lugs and the wide, flat bezel. On a 7-inch wrist, it sits comfortably with a balanced weight distribution, though the 50mm lug-to-lug may overhang on smaller wrists. The leather strap is supple and breaks in quickly, while the pin buckle is secure and unobtrusive. The domed sapphire crystal adds a vintage touch and reduces glare, making the dial easy to read at a glance.

Despite its size, the Friedrichshafen is surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear. The case is well-proportioned, and the lack of a date complication keeps the dial clean and symmetrical. The crown is large and easy to grip, a nod to the original B-Uhr design, but it doesn't dig into the wrist. Overall, it feels like a tool watch that can handle daily wear without being overly bulky.

Accuracy

The Miyota 821A is rated to -20 to +40 seconds per day, but in practice, many examples perform within ±15 seconds. After a week of wear, my test unit averaged +8 seconds per day, which is excellent for a movement in this price range. The hacking function allows for precise time-setting, and the power reserve of 40 hours is sufficient for a weekend rotation.

Occasions

The Friedrichshafen is a versatile watch that suits daily wear, casual sport activities, and travel. Its legible dial and robust construction make it a great companion for outdoor adventures, while its historical charm adds a touch of sophistication to dressier outfits. It's not a formal dress watch, but it can easily transition from the office to a weekend getaway.

Reference Variants

The Friedrichshafen is available in several configurations. The reference 861753 features the classic Type B dial (with the hour circle inside and minute track on the outer edge) on a brown leather strap. Other variants include the 861752 with a Type A dial (hour markers on the outer track), and the 861754 with a blue dial and a stainless steel bracelet. Each variant maintains the same case and movement, allowing collectors to choose their preferred aesthetic.

Similar Watches

For those considering the Friedrichshafen, other pilot watches worth exploring include the Stowa Flieger Classic, which is also a faithful B-Uhr recreation from one of the original manufacturers. The IWC Mark XVIII offers a more luxurious take on the pilot watch, with a higher price tag. On the budget end, the Hamilton Khaki Pilot provides a similar look at a lower cost.

Investment Value

The Laco Friedrichshafen has a retail price of $650, and pre-owned examples typically sell for $400 to $600. The watch holds its value well due to its historical significance and brand reputation, but it is not an investment piece. It's a watch to be worn and enjoyed, not flipped for profit. Auction history is minimal, as the model is not rare.

Service and Maintenance

Laco recommends servicing the Friedrichshafen every five years. The cost is approximately $200, as the Miyota 821A is a common movement that can be serviced by any competent watchmaker. Laco also offers factory service, but it's not required to maintain warranty coverage.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Final Verdict

The Laco Friedrichshafen is a superb modern interpretation of a WWII navigation watch. It offers authentic design, robust construction, and a reliable movement at a reasonable price. For anyone seeking a pilot watch with genuine heritage, this is a top choice.