A classic Laco gets the Taupe treatment (and they’re limited editions!)
Laco listened to their customers and has now launched two additional limited edition models in the mechanical entry-level segment. Featuring a smaller diameter of 39mm each, the appearance of the new Augsburg Taupe and Aachen Taupe is no less impressive than that of their predecessors. With this new size, Laco is following the trend of smaller cases and responding to the request of many enthusiasts who explicitly wished for a reduced format.
The Laco Aachen Taupe - Image Credit: Laco 1925
200 pieces of each of the two new models will be made available. Taupe has long been a favourite of fashion designers, as the subtle colour exudes a sense of noble restraint and complements many outfits. The name derives from the sophisticated nuance of the mole, which is called “taupe” in French. The unobtrusive colour also has its own special appeal on the wrist, which, for the Augsburg Taupe and Aachen Taupe watches, is further enhanced by the sunburst finish. The radiant white numerals, indices and hands add some welcomed contrast to the dials.
The use of glowing Superluminova C1 Blue Line coating, with an expressive luminescent bluish hue, ensures perfect readability at night and in poor light conditions. Apart from that, the two dials reflect the typical instrument look of the company’s pilot watches, which are designed for intuitive readability. With the hour, minute and seconds in the centre of the dial, the Augsburg Taupe mirrors the typical “Baumuster A” dial of the observation watches from the 1940s, while the Aachen Taupe represents the historical “Baumuster B” type with an outer minute track, inner hour circle and central seconds.
The Laco Augsburg Taupe - Image Credit: Laco 1925
The 39 mm stainless steel case with the bold and easy-grip crown features the robust aesthetics of the classic Laco pilot watch. At the heart of the timepiece is the automatic calibre Laco 21, based on the Miyota 821A, which is revealed through the sapphire crystal case back. This movement is newly equipped with a stop-seconds function, which allows time to be set precisely. The limited-edition number of each model is engraved on the case back.
The Laco Aachen Taupe - Image Credit: Laco 1925
The stylish appearances of the new Augsburg Taupe and Aachen Taupe are complemented by a double-riveted leather strap with slightly contrasting stitching and a stainless steel buckle. Both models are available directly from Laco or from authorised dealers for 390 € / 460 $ each.
Stats for Augsburg & Aachen:
Case width: 39mm
Thickness: 11.5mm
Movement: Automatic movement Laco 21
Functions: Hours, minutes and seconds
Power reserve: 42 hours
Case: Stainless steel
Water-resistance: up to 5 ATM
Dial: taupe sunburst finish
Strap: Leather straps
Price: €390
Availability: 200 for each dial option, available now
First impressions
The Laco Aachen Taupe - Image Credit: Laco 1925
It is no secret that we’re fans of grey here at WG. it’s an incredibly versatile colour that works well on straps, and as you can see, even better on watch dials. The soft tone of these watch dials looks to aid the perceived value. A bright white or silver dial can be very striking, but sometimes the right occasion requires a softer, calmer option. The price point on these is honest and fair considering the brand's genuine ties to pilots watches and the fact this is a limited edition run of just 200 watches. If you’re feeling them, I’d grab one while you still can. It’s also nice to see a limited edition watch that doesn’t have a blue dial...
To find out more be sure to head over to Laco here.
