If you're looking for the most authentic recreation of a pilot's watch from the 1940s, look no further than the
Original collection. These watches range from 39 to 55 mm in diameter, have an oversized crown, and feature dials laid out according to the
Baumuster (types) A and B set out by the former German Imperial Ministry of Aviation (Reichsluftfahrtministeriums, or RLM). On the type A, you'll find luminous line indices for the hours and minutes, as well as luminous Arabic numerals and a triangle at 12 o'clock. The type B has an additional hour ring in the middle of its dial. The large sword hands, which are also coated in luminous material, meet historic specifications. Other than the minute scale, this Pforzheim-based manufacturer adds no labels or inscriptions to these timepieces, as was the case with the original models.
The current standard model with a matte black dial comes in three sizes: 39, 42, or 45 mm. Plan to spend between 1,000 and 1,200 USD on one of these timepieces. The 55-mm Replica 55 is markedly more expensive, with a list price of 4,190 USD. Fans of vintage watches should enjoy the models in the Erbstück (heirloom) series. These watches cost around 2,300 USD and have been
artificially aged using chemical and mechanical processes , giving them a distinctly vintage feel. The Blaue Stunde (blue hour) series offers the exact opposite. Deep blue sunburst dials and gray textile straps make these timepieces decidedly modern. These watches sell for about 1,100 USD.
The Basic collection serves as an affordable alternative to the Original collection. While optically identical to their more expensive sister models, they are only available as 39 or 42-mm timepieces. However, the main reason for the lower price comes down to movement specification. Basic models are powered by either an automatic Miyota or quartz Ronda movement. You can easily recognize these models by their smaller crowns and the Laco inscription on their dials. These watches sell for anywhere from 270 to 590 USD.
The watches in the
Special Models collection have slightly different designs. Here, Laco gathered inspiration from the on-board instruments found in iconic aircraft. What's more, there are even models with dials resembling the outer shell of the Ju-52. The Special Models collection also features watches with an automatic Miyota or quartz Ronda movement. Prices for these models are just above those in the Basic series, ranging from 330 to 620 USD.
You'll also find plenty of original Laco pilot's and deck watches from the 1940s on the pre-owned market. Manual calibers from Durowe (Deutsche Uhrenrohwerke, a German watch movement manufacturer) power these timepieces. At the time, Laco and Durowe had a close relationship. Well-maintained, these vintage watches are popular among collectors and demand prices of 4,500 to 13,600 USD.