A new limited edition that doesn't break the bank!
When a respected manufacturer like Laco takes two of their classic war-time inspired aviation models and puts an even more militaristic feel to the existing design you can expect something special. As of March 2021, the German-based company is offering special editions of both the 42mm Augsburg and Aachen models with a unique olive dial and a weathered bronze PVD case coating. Only 250 of each special edition will be made and the watches will be individually serial numbered.
The Laco Augsburg & Aachen Olive Special Editions - Image Credit: Laco Watches
To complement the vintage package the luminous elements used for the indices and hands is Super-Luminova "Old Radium", which has an antique brown shade during the day, yet glows a conventionally modern bright green in low light. The stainless-steel 42mm case has been subjected to an additional bronze coloured PVD coating which gives a "used" look. The domed crown allows for easy operation with thick gloves which evokes the company's pilot watch tradition.
The Laco Augsburg & Aachen Olive Special Editions - Image Credit: Laco Watches
Precision timekeeping is ensured by the fitting of a Laco 21 watch movement, which can be seen through a sapphire crystal case back. This mechanism is based on the Miyota 821A, 21,600 bph self-winding Parashock unit which offers a power reserve of 42 hours in addition to a stop-second “hack” function. Laco are also offering and option to upgrade the 21 to the Laco 31 movement which additionally offers the technical improvement of a 60-hour reserve and aesthetic enhancement from heat-treated blued screws. Both models are supported by vintage leather straps, which will develop an individual patina over time. In keeping with the pilot watch style, the strap features Laco’s decorative rivets which are bronzed colour coordinated with the case.
The Laco Augsburg & Aachen Olive Special Editions - Image Credit: Laco Watches
Augsburg Olive 42 & Aachen Olive 42 Technical specifications:
Reference: Augsburg Ref. 862127, Aachen Ref. 862128
Case width: 42mm
Thickness: 12mm
Movement: Laco 21, basic movement: Miyota 821A
Functions: Hour, minute and second
Case: Stainless steel case with weathered bronze look
Water-resistance: 5 atm
Dial: Olive green mat, Arabic figures and indexes with luminous material Super-Luminova Old Radium
Strap: Olive green calf leather strap
Availability: Limited to 250 pieces each
Price: EURO 440 (available from 03 March 2021)
A personal perspective:
The Laco Augsburg & Aachen Olive Special Editions - Image Credit: Laco Watches
Laco’s modern WW2 inspired pilot watches have a look that has never gone out of style. This is thanks to thoughtful and sympathetic manufacturing. Keeping the time-honoured design but recognising that the inclusion of up-to-date components keeps the watches more commercially viable, without sacrificing the accuracy of the homage.
The latest “Olive” special editions take a nod from the successful distressed ERBSTÜCK models which make a new watch look very old. No doubt, this concept was a big gamble, but it worked.
The Laco Augsburg & Aachen Olive Special Editions - Image Credit: Laco Watches
The weathered look of these new 42mm models looks excellent without being overly applied and appearing false. The colour choice also gives the models, especially the Augsburg, an unexpected Field Watch look which may even bring these excellent watches to a new audience. Check them out for yourself here.
