Thanks for posting this video on Laco. This is a brand I have been researching for a few months now and finally bought the Augsburg 39 Type A yesterday from Long Island Watches. I don't own anything below a 40mm, but thought the 39mm would be perfect for me since I have a 6.5" wrist and the Flieger style watches play bigger too. Keep up the great work!
Great review. It's a little on the high end for a Miyota 821A (or a NH35A), but not completely unreasonable. They are a name brand with real history behind the model so it's justifiable. Especially if everything else is top-notch.
I am amazed at the finishing on the Miyota movement. I had no idea Laco was making Fliegers at this price point. I am really impressed. Thank you Dave 😊👍
I think the added hacking really is kind of a game changer for this line. I still think they should be dropping in a Miyota 9000 series movement at this price, but an 821A with hacking is acceptable given the heritage and quality Laco puts out.
Doing some research for the Laços I received and glad you brought up the Miyota movement. The fit and finish is amazing and it was like looking at a sports car and opening the hood to find a 4 cylinder engine. It’s nice to know I wasn’t alone there. Great review man.
I've got the Laco Augsburg Blaue Stunde 42, and I absolutely love it! Thanks for taking the time to review a few Lacos. I can't wait to see the next reviews.
Been tempted once or twice, but can't quite get past the fact that they'er asking $400 or so, for a Miyota 8000 series watch. Don't get me wrong, I've had a few 8000 series and they're perfectly good little movements, even without hacking, but over 300 sponds for one of these is really pushing it. Nice video BTW👍👍
Laco is the only historically correct flieger watch manufacturer among the 5 licensed on WW2, on actual days. Their Erbstuck line of watches are amazing watch pieces, a thrill to wear on wrist. Everything else are modern cosmetic interpretations of original flieger watches. If you dig enough into flieger watches you will get to this conclusion fast. Great video, thanks
Yes, they were one of the 5 licenced brands, but today they make them with differences, namely the curved lugs, day numbers on dials, wrong modern straps, etc
Great review Dave! I bought an Aachen (42mm type B) two years ago with the old non-hacking miyota and loved it. Sadly I lost the watch somewhere at World Trade Center subway station last fall. Now they have the new miyota I may get a replacement as the non hacking was my only complaint about the old one
I own this watch with the hacking 821a movement. It's running +7 secs per day, which is nearly chronometer grade by COSC standards (-4:+6 spd). Pretty impressive for a ~$500 watch. Also, nobody mentions that you can get this watch on an 18mm stainless steel H-link bracelet with Laco branding and it looks great.
@@JusttheWatch I haven't for sure even settled on the brand yet. Looking Laco and Stowa mostly. I'm looking for a traditional flieger but still unsure.
These macro shots of the dials are really exceptionally good-they're mesmerizing to watch when the hand finishing and dial printing is this good. One thing that the macro views highlight that seems worth mentioning is how nearly identical the dial surfaces are across Lacos at vastly different prices. I'm amazed to see that the Augsburg's matte black dial has almost exactly the same charcoaly surface texture at a third the cost, and it looks a lot nicer than the semi-matte black texture I normally associate with watches at this price point.
I had a 42mm Augsburg a few years ago, but sold it: I underestimated the size of the case and the lug design, and should've bought a smaller one But what I had enough back then was the non-hacking Miyota movement, and the rotor noise (and partially the lack of water resistance) It's not the fault of Laco, it's just my fault of a bad impulse buy
Hi Dave! I am absolutely STOKED to hear that you are doing a Laco Deep-Dive! I love Laco. Especially their Bronze watches, which I believe are a part of the more expensive line. I believe that there is a model that features a 'by hand' faux patina? By that I mean that each piece is given some patina, marks and dings and light scratches to the case + some chemical help with the bronze itself. They even give the extremely substantial riveted strap some patina. I haven't looked for it on the net before writing this, so going from memory alone. In any case I love Laco, but even the 'budget' line are a bit pricey for me so I bought a 'type B' dialled flieger from another German based company that has their pieces made in China. Nowhere near as good as Laco in Design or Quality, but it's fine for now and has work- horse movement that runs very well & since I put an IWC 'Big Pilot' style strap on it, it looks the goods too. I do love riveted straps. I purchased one from Aliexpress for my Seiko Flightmaster (which looks great BTW) and think I will buy another in Brown for my Flieger. Re. the 18mm strap? I LOVE it! I have a heap of 18mm straps due to my large collection of Soviet era timepieces, which all seem to have 18mm straps! The thing I like best about my Bulova Lunar Pilot is the 20mm strap on such a large watch. The proportions just seem right for Aviation pieces, for all the reasons you stated. Infact the thing I like least about my Strela Cosmograph is its 22mm lug width. It's a Space/Pilots Chronograph - not a flieger but the proportions don't work as well as it would with a 20mm band width for all the same reasons. I really enjoyed your review...again, and am always excited when you post a new video to YT. A premium Laco is on that 'watches I must own' list, which is only about 4 watches long, so I hold it in Very high regard. Stay healthy and I hope those you love do the same. A. P.S. - I am loving your presentation style at moment. Those long pauses give us a chance to both take in what you are saying and take in the visuals. Very good work mate!
Yeah, I've seen some of pictures of their distressed models, they really do look amazing. They do a really great job catering to history buffs. The originals line especially is a really faithful recreation of the original Flieger watches. I've been curious to try out some of the made in china Flieger's that are out there, seems like some really great deals, and I'd be curious to see how they compare to Laco. But overall I've been really impressed with Laco, especially once you start looking at their watches up close in macro.
Just the Watch - I agree. All, or most of the Chinese watch companies do great Fliegers. I went for a watch made by Aeromatic 1912; model "1943 Surveyors Watch" -mainly because of the yellow highlights and the history of the original watch it is based on - watches used buy engineers working to perfect the 'V Series' Rocket. And historically, that leads into Operation Paperclip, which was possibly the first major intelligence operation of the Cold War, which is of great interest to me. It's a great watch; NH35 movement, sandblasted case, 40mm and Domed (mineral unfortunately) crystal. It performs really, really well and it looks the goods too, particularly now it's on a flieger style strap. It gets alot of wrist time. Stay healthy.
Just the Watch - Ohh, and for anybody looking for a Flieger style riveted strap buy one of these - around $15USD I believe and the quality is exceptional.. a.aliexpress.com/_dXuHeOs
I just picked up the salmon dial Baltic HMS 100 that uses the same movement. It blows my mind how loud the movement is and how you can feel it move on your wrist. I am happy it came with hacking though. Love the Laco though! They will definitely be the next watch brand I pick up. Thanks for the review!
Hi Dave, I enjoy watching your RUclips channel. I trust your judgment when it comes to watches. Question: I just purchased a Laco Ausburg 42mm, which comes with the Miyota movement. I’d like to purchase a Sellita SW200-1 and have my watch tech swap it out for the Miyota. I’m thinking it should fit since the SW200-1 comes standard on the more expensive Ausburgs. Do you think it will fit? The watch you reviewed is a 39mm and the watch I bought is a 42mm. Will that be a problem? Thanks in advance for your response.
I’m with you on this watch! I have the Hamilton Khaki Pilot and that gives me all the Fleiger i need! Love the show! Hoping to make my channel as entertaining and as interesting as yours!
@@JusttheWatch I would put the watch on a leather bund strap to kind of add a little more substance to the sizing if it helps, as well as give it a more aviator style as well (I do like that riveted strap it comes with, though!)
Great review Dave, I think Laco's heritage would have a big influence if I took the plunge, Thanks for the heads up regarding asking for the hacking version when ordering. The "39" looks big enough for a 7 inch wrist.
Great review. I'd been watching this model for a few weeks but after watching this review (a few times) and a significant price drop I've taken the plunge and I just hope the hacking movement is delivered. I'll be OK with it either way.
I'm looking for a flieger with preferably as much history & heritage as the Laco but one that comes with a Swiss movement for around $500. The brand doesn't have to be German but I'm trying to keep off Japanese for this specific piece. Any ideas?
Great review. I am really interested in your Laco series reviews. I am looking at them for the very reasons you stated, heritage, and quality. I also am torn between the more affordable end with a Aachen 42 type B dial vs saving up for the higher end (I am leaning toward the Paderborn there). Will watch your reviews of the various Laco watches with interest. Agree that on the low end, this is one of the few brands in contention and once you get to the higher end, it opens up a bit with IWC and Stowa thrown into the mix, especially if you are into the heritage factor more than the look.
If money wasn't a factor, I think the Paderborn would be my pick from Laco (but for me money is always a factor...). I have some shots of it coming up in the next review, but unfortunately the display model they sent me had a broken movement, so I chose not to do a full review of it. Instead I'll be reviewing the Westerland.
Just the Watch indeed, money is always a factor on my end as well. But it makes the looking fun when you really have to figure out what you want and what you can afford. Too bad about the Paderborn having issues. It would be a multi year saving for me getting that one, so I have time to enjoy the adventure of the hunt...😊
Hi! I really like this video of flieger 👍 I'm also a big fan of Laco flieger models, I'm a happy owner of a Aachen from Laco for several weeks now. I was highly attracted by a flieger watch and thanks to your video (among couple of other's) I definitely chose a Laco flieger. So thank you for your cool videos! 👍 I also wanted to ask you what is the model jacket you're wearing at about 3:38 in the video? It really looks fantastic! It makes nice combo with the watch in addition! 👌
I just got one in the taupe grey dial color. I really like it, and it seems high quality, but I really wish that the lugs were 20 mm instead of 18 and I don't think the case needs to be as thick as it is. Those are really my only complaints about an otherwise great watch. And by the way, it has the white lume paint and it glows blue, which is perfect for the grey dial.
great watch for the money , i did not know that Laco was selling watches in that price point, I thought all of their watchers were above 1000. Im going to have to check out some of their watches and try to review one for my channel or buy it for my personal collection. If I am getting a flieger though I think 45mm is the way to go .
Thanks for this great video. I’m currently trying to decide between a 39mm and 42mm Aachen (Type B). My wrist is 7” and I’m looking for a watch that is comfortable to wear for everyday, and will also look good when wearing in my “business casual” dress code at work. One of my current watches that I wear is a 42mm casual style watch. It fits comfortably and doesn’t look too large. However, this watch is also a bit more streamlined that the Flieger and has a thinner strap as well so it’s not a true apples to apples comparison. I don’t mind a watch that is a little on the larger size but don’t like a watch that feels bulky - if that makes any sense. On your wrist, I like the way the 42mm looks best (not sure how comfortable it is compared to the 39mm though), however on my 7” wrist, what would you recommend?
Yeah that's a tough one. For me I like the look of the 42 better, but the 39 is more comfortable, and I don't think it looks bad. Fliegers are traditionally larger, do 42 would be a more classic look for you. Also the 42mm still wears pretty good, I think I'd be leaning in that direction of I were you.
I have the 42. I like the size, but what I would say and this is very subtle, but the proportions on the 39 look better to me. There is less "deadspace" on the dial. The numbers look better proportioned on the 39. The only thing I cannot comment on is the fit on your wrist, but I will say... take a look at the dial comparison in terms of the spacing of the proportions of the markers and the numbers and the hands on the dial. The last thing that I would also consider is the strap comments that Dave makes. I definitely find it harder to find 18mm straps, but agree with how that affects the proportions. I really do like the proportions on the 39mm better.
I'd be interested in how this compares to other 'affordable' fliegers from Stowa and Archimede - personally I've got my eye on the 39mm Archimede, and I definitely prefer the hand design on that watch to this Laco one.
Great video, but the movement plus the no AR Sapphire crystal at $400, it hurts me a lot ! For less you can go for a tissel with a 90XX movement, but wihtout the history behind.
Yeah, I think if specs is your main concern, there's definitely better speced fliegers at lower prices than Laco. But for a lot of people interested in fliegers, for whatever reason the heritage is really important, and if a more direct connection to the history of aviation is something that is meaningful to you, then Laco provides a great value. But I know a lot of people could care less for heritage, and for them, this probably isn't the best buy.
for around that price and ETA/Sellita movement with blue hands its worth to take a look at Steinhart. The only thing I wasn't too impressed was the service. Otherwise all in all i think you get more for the money than with this Augsburg model.
My Stowa 36mm flieger is the timepiece in my collection that gets the most wrist time. I love the sterile dials, legibility, and beautiful bluing on the hands. A bit more expensive than the Laco featured here though...
Is there a ghost date dial in the Augsburg? It would suck if you accidentally adjust things around midnight and mess up the movement or chip a gear and have that floating around in the watch.
I just received this watch and it's my first watch I've had with a Miyota movement. The crown feels really hard and squishy when pulling it out, and when setting the time it's very jumpy. Is this normal? Also, is position 2 on the crown a date function that this watch doesn't have?
That's fairly common on the Miyota 8000 series movements I've tried. The Miyota 9000s are a lot smoother though. And yes, they used a movement with a date position, but the watch itself doesn't have a date, so you have to pull it out one extra step to get to time setting.
At this price range, you can get a Khaki King with the great H-40 (ETA 2834-2) movement, and I think Laco should consider to change their movements to compete with them, because some of us don't want to spend this money for a watch with the Miyota 821a movement.
Can't say for sure, but I think it would be fine. Traditionally fleigers were large watches, so even if it's a bit bigger than you normally go it still should for fine!
Yeah, almost bought it a bunch of times. From a raw specs stand point I suspect it's a better value than this. I'd have to see it up close though. I tend to be pretty impressed with the details in Laco's watches, and if heritage and origin is important to you, Laco definitely has the edge there.
Raw specs, a made in China AliExpress watch with Chinese taxes and labour will always have the edge. Would still rather be wearing a Laco, even at a slight premium
Bought a 40 mm Tisell Flieger for much less than that and I cannot be happier. All the bells and whistles of the Laco for (almost) half the price. I suppose it's a question of whether you focus on the brand/heritage or the actual product. Still a bit disappointed Tisell wasn't mentioned when talking about the affordable flieger sector.
I've always had a hard time tracking down where exactly to buy Tissel watches, which is one reason they aren't on my radar too often, but from what I've seen, their flieger's look like some really great values.
I'm a little busy right now, but shoot me an email with info about your watch and your launch and we can talk about it. You can get my email address from my channel's About tab.
Wanted a pilots watch but could not justify the $400 for the Laco - went with the STEELDIVE brand associated with San Martin and Lugyou - 39mm, sapphire, NH35, 200m WR, screw down crown and case back, C3 lume. This watch keeps good time and looks good in the $125US price range. Thoughts on this brand, if any?
Haven't gotten a chance to see the islander in person, but is suspect the islander is better specs for the price, while the Laco has more impressive heritage.
The movement is a deal-breaker. Seems like everything else is top-notch. But heritage or no heritage, using a movement that is regularly found in $50 watches is inexcusable at that price. It's like Rolex deciding to put out a lower level Submariner with a low-tier ETA and selling it for $3,200. Sure, you're getting the Rolex heritage but it makes no sense.
Best flieger watch you can get under 400$ is the Islander aviator. For 199$ you get anti-reflective sapphire glass, nh35 movement, 100m water resistance and full c3 lume.
believe that is in their more expensive line , but that is a cool looking watch, they do a great job on it and I think the look really fits the watch, I know the fake distressed look is not for everyone though
僕も日本に住んでいました!富山県で!いずれにしても、英語で続きましょう(笑)!I actually have my grandfather’s Laco from the 1940s, which until discovering your channel and scouring the Interwebs periodically over the past year hadn’t actually been able to make the name Laco out on the watch face; it hasn’t as much eroded from time as I just couldn’t read the cursive font. Anyway, I took it to one watch shop; it was an elderly man who didn’t seem to know a hair spring from a hair dryer, and was curious if you might recommend anyone stateside who could put it in working order. All the best!
In regards to this particular watch, no, Laco is charging the same price as they did when the movement didn't have hacking. I'm not sure if Miyota is charging more now that they've upgraded the movement or not. If I recall properly the 821A used to be simply a decorated version of the 8215, and as such was already priced slightly above it. Now by adding hacking to the 821A it's got a lot more value added to it.
@@JusttheWatch I see. Thanks for the heads up. I was really considering on buying this particular model. But with it being non-hackable, kinda makes it a deal breaker for me. Thanks for the tip btw. Looking forward on your next video. Cheers and stay safe!
I'd say that the finishing on the Outdoor is a little better, but it's close. The Outdoor also has a much more premium movement, it's an Orient in house automatic with 50 hours of power reserve and a power-reserve indicator. Lume on both is excellent, and while the printed dial on the Laco is exactly what you want from a traditional flieger, I prefer the more intricate dial design with applied indices on the Orient. Retail price on the Orient is about $200 more than the Laco, but occasionally you can find them at comparable prices. If you can find an Orient Star Outdoor at the same price as the Laco, I'd say it's the better value, and I prefer it over the Laco. One area where the Laco is significantly better is the strap. The strap on the Orient, while nice that it has a deployant clasp, is made of some cheap feeling leather that isn't particularly comfortable on the wrist.
Well... In Switzerland surprisingly the Augusburg retails for 325.- Swiss Francs which is aprox. the same as US-Dollars (maybe 330$). Normally everthing is more expensive in Switzerland!
Absolutely amazing. This watch just screams quality. I love that it is 39mm. Great review!
Thanks for posting this video on Laco. This is a brand I have been researching for a few months now and finally bought the Augsburg 39 Type A yesterday from Long Island Watches. I don't own anything below a 40mm, but thought the 39mm would be perfect for me since I have a 6.5" wrist and the Flieger style watches play bigger too. Keep up the great work!
LOL all 40mm are too large for your wrist, stick to 39mm and smaller.
Great review. It's a little on the high end for a Miyota 821A (or a NH35A), but not completely unreasonable. They are a name brand with real history behind the model so it's justifiable. Especially if everything else is top-notch.
I have the Augsburg 42 and don't mind the movement in the least. It has hacking and mine's been running at +3 secs/day. That's COSC level performance.
Got the Auchsburg Blaue Stunde (Blue dial) earlier this year. Love it and the blue dial is stunning!
I am amazed at the finishing on the Miyota movement. I had no idea Laco was making Fliegers at this price point. I am really impressed. Thank you Dave 😊👍
i was thinking the same thing it actually looks finished very well.
39 mm is the perfect size! thank you for this review, Dave
Such an amazing piece and even better video! Laco has my respect for sure!! Looking forward to the other reviews.
Amazing! And they’re REAL fliegers. Great value. Didn’t know you get the updated Miyota with hacking, that makes it worth it. Will probably buy soon
I think the added hacking really is kind of a game changer for this line. I still think they should be dropping in a Miyota 9000 series movement at this price, but an 821A with hacking is acceptable given the heritage and quality Laco puts out.
its a great watch I dont think you can get a better flieger for the money
I mean the fact they released them without, because flight crews don't need synchronization? WTF is that line of thinking.
Doing some research for the Laços I received and glad you brought up the Miyota movement. The fit and finish is amazing and it was like looking at a sports car and opening the hood to find a 4 cylinder engine. It’s nice to know I wasn’t alone there. Great review man.
Fantastic review. Especially loved the Lume comparison and elapsed time. And the size comparison side by side. Great work!
I've got the Laco Augsburg Blaue Stunde 42, and I absolutely love it! Thanks for taking the time to review a few Lacos. I can't wait to see the next reviews.
What size is your wrist?
@@mitchcross6271 7 1/4"
Does it have a screw down crown?
Perfect analysis of this watch. Congrats for the professionalism you do this
Now they offer an upgrade on the Laco 2S movement to Laco 31 movement, when you purchase the watch from their site. Is Laco 31 any better?
Been tempted once or twice, but can't quite get past the fact that they'er asking $400 or so, for a Miyota 8000 series watch. Don't get me wrong, I've had a few 8000 series and they're perfectly good little movements, even without hacking, but over 300 sponds for one of these is really pushing it. Nice video BTW👍👍
Get a chinese one on AliExpress! 😅
@@milo5524 you might end up with a Loco, not a Laco.
Laco is the only historically correct flieger watch manufacturer among the 5 licensed on WW2, on actual days. Their Erbstuck line of watches are amazing watch pieces, a thrill to wear on wrist. Everything else are modern cosmetic interpretations of original flieger watches. If you dig enough into flieger watches you will get to this conclusion fast. Great video, thanks
Nah, Stowa also makes 1940s style fliegers
Yes, they were one of the 5 licenced brands, but today they make them with differences, namely the curved lugs, day numbers on dials, wrong modern straps, etc
Congratulations Dave 👍🏻
Love it! Will get one one day, once this madness is over. Cheers mate, stay well 👍🏻👍🏻
I have the Augsburg 42mm with a blue dial on a bracelet, wearing it now, love it!!!
Interesting comment about the 18mm strap making the 39mm case appear to be larger while wearing smaller. Great video!
Great review Dave! I bought an Aachen (42mm type B) two years ago with the old non-hacking miyota and loved it. Sadly I lost the watch somewhere at World Trade Center subway station last fall. Now they have the new miyota I may get a replacement as the non hacking was my only complaint about the old one
Excellent video. Recently grown an interest in fledged watches, especially the type B
One nice thing about the 39mm on your wrist Dave is the strap is more visible on the top of your wrist. It really balances well with the case/dial.
I own this watch with the hacking 821a movement. It's running +7 secs per day, which is nearly chronometer grade by COSC standards (-4:+6 spd). Pretty impressive for a ~$500 watch. Also, nobody mentions that you can get this watch on an 18mm stainless steel H-link bracelet with Laco branding and it looks great.
Laco does.
I'm glad you going to be doing a few Laco videos. I've been considering adding one so look forward to them.
Which one's you looking at, Bob? I'll be reviewing the Westerland next.
@@JusttheWatch I haven't for sure even settled on the brand yet. Looking Laco and Stowa mostly. I'm looking for a traditional flieger but still unsure.
These macro shots of the dials are really exceptionally good-they're mesmerizing to watch when the hand finishing and dial printing is this good.
One thing that the macro views highlight that seems worth mentioning is how nearly identical the dial surfaces are across Lacos at vastly different prices. I'm amazed to see that the Augsburg's matte black dial has almost exactly the same charcoaly surface texture at a third the cost, and it looks a lot nicer than the semi-matte black texture I normally associate with watches at this price point.
I own a Laco 42mm version. Movement and details aside, it has the strongest reflection from the sapphire crystal that I have ever seen.
there is an option to add AR coating now for 50eur
Bought this watch on Black Friday for € 290 and it fits my small wrist perfectly 😎
Digging it. Nice review. Congrats on the win and the collab.
You just have to buy it no need to dig it out;)
TheKrakovv 😉
Great review and video quality love the side by side comparisons, good job man!
I had a 42mm Augsburg a few years ago, but sold it: I underestimated the size of the case and the lug design, and should've bought a smaller one
But what I had enough back then was the non-hacking Miyota movement, and the rotor noise (and partially the lack of water resistance)
It's not the fault of Laco, it's just my fault of a bad impulse buy
I’m trying to decide currently between the 39mm and 42mm. Can I ask what size is your wrist for comparison?
Hi Dave! I am absolutely STOKED to hear that you are doing a Laco Deep-Dive!
I love Laco. Especially their Bronze watches, which I believe are a part of the more expensive line. I believe that there is a model that features a 'by hand' faux patina? By that I mean that each piece is given some patina, marks and dings and light scratches to the case + some chemical help with the bronze itself. They even give the extremely substantial riveted strap some patina. I haven't looked for it on the net before writing this, so going from memory alone.
In any case I love Laco, but even the 'budget' line are a bit pricey for me so I bought a 'type B' dialled flieger from another German based company that has their pieces made in China. Nowhere near as good as Laco in Design or Quality, but it's fine for now and has work- horse movement that runs very well & since I put an IWC 'Big Pilot' style strap on it, it looks the goods too.
I do love riveted straps. I purchased one from Aliexpress for my Seiko Flightmaster (which looks great BTW) and think I will buy another in Brown for my Flieger.
Re. the 18mm strap? I LOVE it! I have a heap of 18mm straps due to my large collection of Soviet era timepieces, which all seem to have 18mm straps! The thing I like best about my Bulova Lunar Pilot is the 20mm strap on such a large watch. The proportions just seem right for Aviation pieces, for all the reasons you stated. Infact the thing I like least about my Strela Cosmograph is its 22mm lug width. It's a Space/Pilots Chronograph - not a flieger but the proportions don't work as well as it would with a 20mm band width for all the same reasons.
I really enjoyed your review...again, and am always excited when you post a new video to YT. A premium Laco is on that 'watches I must own' list, which is only about 4 watches long, so I hold it in Very high regard.
Stay healthy and I hope those you love do the same.
A.
P.S. - I am loving your presentation style at moment. Those long pauses give us a chance to both take in what you are saying and take in the visuals. Very good work mate!
Yeah, I've seen some of pictures of their distressed models, they really do look amazing. They do a really great job catering to history buffs. The originals line especially is a really faithful recreation of the original Flieger watches.
I've been curious to try out some of the made in china Flieger's that are out there, seems like some really great deals, and I'd be curious to see how they compare to Laco. But overall I've been really impressed with Laco, especially once you start looking at their watches up close in macro.
Just the Watch - I agree. All, or most of the Chinese watch companies do great Fliegers. I went for a watch made by Aeromatic 1912; model "1943 Surveyors Watch" -mainly because of the yellow highlights and the history of the original watch it is based on - watches used buy engineers working to perfect the 'V Series' Rocket.
And historically, that leads into Operation Paperclip, which was possibly the first major intelligence operation of the Cold War, which is of great interest to me.
It's a great watch; NH35 movement, sandblasted case, 40mm and Domed (mineral unfortunately) crystal. It performs really, really well and it looks the goods too, particularly now it's on a flieger style strap. It gets alot of wrist time.
Stay healthy.
Just the Watch - Ohh, and for anybody looking for a Flieger style riveted strap buy one of these - around $15USD I believe and the quality is exceptional..
a.aliexpress.com/_dXuHeOs
I just picked up the salmon dial Baltic HMS 100 that uses the same movement. It blows my mind how loud the movement is and how you can feel it move on your wrist. I am happy it came with hacking though. Love the Laco though! They will definitely be the next watch brand I pick up. Thanks for the review!
Hi Dave,
I enjoy watching your RUclips channel. I trust your judgment when it comes to watches.
Question: I just purchased a Laco Ausburg 42mm, which comes with the Miyota movement. I’d like to purchase a Sellita SW200-1 and have my watch tech swap it out for the Miyota. I’m thinking it should fit since the SW200-1 comes standard on the more expensive Ausburgs. Do you think it will fit? The watch you reviewed is a 39mm and the watch I bought is a 42mm. Will that be a problem? Thanks in advance for your response.
I’m with you on this watch! I have the Hamilton Khaki Pilot and that gives me all the Fleiger i need! Love the show! Hoping to make my channel as entertaining and as interesting as yours!
Thank you for this very informative and good review! It helped a lot!
What about the Augsburg Type-A strap will it fit well on an 8" wrist. I like the easy to read less crowded dial, bad eyes.
Nice review! I love this watch but greenish dial markers don't let me pull the trigger. I cant understand why they cant make it in white. Pity...
Would it be worth upgrading to a 8315 movement for the additional $65 ?
That 39mm looks amazing on your wrist, Dave. 👌
I actually really liked how it wore, still not totally sold on the 18mm strap, but the watch head fit great.
You did make a good point about how 18mm suited the size. Still, I find 20mm pretty small so I get it. 😁
@@JusttheWatch I would put the watch on a leather bund strap to kind of add a little more substance to the sizing if it helps, as well as give it a more aviator style as well (I do like that riveted strap it comes with, though!)
Great review Dave, I think Laco's
heritage would have a big influence if I took the plunge, Thanks for the heads up regarding asking for the hacking version when ordering. The "39" looks big enough for a 7 inch wrist.
Great review. I'd been watching this model for a few weeks but after watching this review (a few times) and a significant price drop I've taken the plunge and I just hope the hacking movement is delivered. I'll be OK with it either way.
I'm looking for a flieger with preferably as much history & heritage as the Laco but one that comes with a Swiss movement for around $500. The brand doesn't have to be German but I'm trying to keep off Japanese for this specific piece. Any ideas?
Just a side note: I'm glad you washed your hands for at least 20 seconds!
Gotta set an example in these times...
Great review. I am really interested in your Laco series reviews. I am looking at them for the very reasons you stated, heritage, and quality. I also am torn between the more affordable end with a Aachen 42 type B dial vs saving up for the higher end (I am leaning toward the Paderborn there). Will watch your reviews of the various Laco watches with interest. Agree that on the low end, this is one of the few brands in contention and once you get to the higher end, it opens up a bit with IWC and Stowa thrown into the mix, especially if you are into the heritage factor more than the look.
If money wasn't a factor, I think the Paderborn would be my pick from Laco (but for me money is always a factor...). I have some shots of it coming up in the next review, but unfortunately the display model they sent me had a broken movement, so I chose not to do a full review of it. Instead I'll be reviewing the Westerland.
Just the Watch indeed, money is always a factor on my end as well. But it makes the looking fun when you really have to figure out what you want and what you can afford. Too bad about the Paderborn having issues. It would be a multi year saving for me getting that one, so I have time to enjoy the adventure of the hunt...😊
Thanks for the review. I think I will get one now that they have hacking - this used to be a deal-breaker for me because a flieger needs this feature.
Hi! I really like this video of flieger 👍 I'm also a big fan of Laco flieger models, I'm a happy owner of a Aachen from Laco for several weeks now. I was highly attracted by a flieger watch and thanks to your video (among couple of other's) I definitely chose a Laco flieger. So thank you for your cool videos! 👍
I also wanted to ask you what is the model jacket you're wearing at about 3:38 in the video? It really looks fantastic! It makes nice combo with the watch in addition! 👌
Just found this video. I'm really interested in buying a Laco (aachen or ausburg 39mm) as my first watch so this is great info
how do the dial details and the case finishing compare to their more expensive time pieces?
I just got one in the taupe grey dial color. I really like it, and it seems high quality, but I really wish that the lugs were 20 mm instead of 18 and I don't think the case needs to be as thick as it is. Those are really my only complaints about an otherwise great watch. And by the way, it has the white lume paint and it glows blue, which is perfect for the grey dial.
Might be interesting if you could do a side by side quality comparison between the $350 Laco Augsburg 42 and the $10,000 IWC Big Pilot's 43.
great watch for the money , i did not know that Laco was selling watches in that price point, I thought all of their watchers were above 1000. Im going to have to check out some of their watches and try to review one for my channel or buy it for my personal collection. If I am getting a flieger though I think 45mm is the way to go .
everything great apart from the small 18 lug width. That's a non-starter for me which is a pity because everything else i like.
Love your videos
Very informative
and my favorite watches are marine types
Thank you ....
Sinn, Stowa, Laco- love German watch brands.
do u think it's readable during a whole night (in complete dark with eyes used to the dark) ?
Do you thing is worth the 50€ extra for AR coating what they offer on their websites?
Great! I'm looking forward to this series! I posted this before I finished the video too! 👍☺️
I like the greenish lume
Is your watch with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal? On the LACO website, this is an additional option for 50 euros.
Great review! Thank you!
Very accurate well made watch❤
really good review keep it up!!!!
How does this compare to the Geckota Gliegers that use an ETA-movement?
Thanks for this great video. I’m currently trying to decide between a 39mm and 42mm Aachen (Type B). My wrist is 7” and I’m looking for a watch that is comfortable to wear for everyday, and will also look good when wearing in my “business casual” dress code at work. One of my current watches that I wear is a 42mm casual style watch. It fits comfortably and doesn’t look too large. However, this watch is also a bit more streamlined that the Flieger and has a thinner strap as well so it’s not a true apples to apples comparison. I don’t mind a watch that is a little on the larger size but don’t like a watch that feels bulky - if that makes any sense. On your wrist, I like the way the 42mm looks best (not sure how comfortable it is compared to the 39mm though), however on my 7” wrist, what would you recommend?
Yeah that's a tough one. For me I like the look of the 42 better, but the 39 is more comfortable, and I don't think it looks bad. Fliegers are traditionally larger, do 42 would be a more classic look for you. Also the 42mm still wears pretty good, I think I'd be leaning in that direction of I were you.
I have the 42. I like the size, but what I would say and this is very subtle, but the proportions on the 39 look better to me. There is less "deadspace" on the dial. The numbers look better proportioned on the 39. The only thing I cannot comment on is the fit on your wrist, but I will say... take a look at the dial comparison in terms of the spacing of the proportions of the markers and the numbers and the hands on the dial. The last thing that I would also consider is the strap comments that Dave makes. I definitely find it harder to find 18mm straps, but agree with how that affects the proportions. I really do like the proportions on the 39mm better.
I just realized this was from 1 year ago... sorry. I just bought the watch. Curious to see what you decided on @Mitch Cross
I'd be interested in how this compares to other 'affordable' fliegers from Stowa and Archimede - personally I've got my eye on the 39mm Archimede, and I definitely prefer the hand design on that watch to this Laco one.
Archimede's watches feature german-made cases from their case factory Ickler. I'd go with that choice tbh.
Great video, but the movement plus the no AR Sapphire crystal at $400, it hurts me a lot ! For less you can go for a tissel with a 90XX movement, but wihtout the history behind.
Yeah, I think if specs is your main concern, there's definitely better speced fliegers at lower prices than Laco. But for a lot of people interested in fliegers, for whatever reason the heritage is really important, and if a more direct connection to the history of aviation is something that is meaningful to you, then Laco provides a great value. But I know a lot of people could care less for heritage, and for them, this probably isn't the best buy.
Do you know where they are made ? I see them between 250 and 299 euros on their website (v.s. 340 for the Laco)...
for around that price and ETA/Sellita movement with blue hands its worth to take a look at Steinhart. The only thing I wasn't too impressed was the service. Otherwise all in all i think you get more for the money than with this Augsburg model.
Random question, what Jacket is that at 3:40?... 😂 I'm a fan!
Nice looking watches. A bit pricey when the conversion to Canadian adds 35%, plus tariffs and duties. That's like two Seikos or Orients.
very true but I think its pretty cool to be able to get a laco for 400 since some of their watches cost 4000
My Stowa 36mm flieger is the timepiece in my collection that gets the most wrist time. I love the sterile dials, legibility, and beautiful bluing on the hands. A bit more expensive than the Laco featured here though...
I dont think you can go wrong with either brand
Is there a ghost date dial in the Augsburg? It would suck if you accidentally adjust things around midnight and mess up the movement or chip a gear and have that floating around in the watch.
Pretty sure there is.
I just received this watch and it's my first watch I've had with a Miyota movement. The crown feels really hard and squishy when pulling it out, and when setting the time it's very jumpy. Is this normal? Also, is position 2 on the crown a date function that this watch doesn't have?
That's fairly common on the Miyota 8000 series movements I've tried. The Miyota 9000s are a lot smoother though. And yes, they used a movement with a date position, but the watch itself doesn't have a date, so you have to pull it out one extra step to get to time setting.
@@JusttheWatch oh my goodness this is awful lol! At least the watch is gorgeous.
Do laco watch’s have a screw down crown?
At this price range, you can get a Khaki King with the great H-40 (ETA 2834-2) movement, and I think Laco should consider to change their movements to compete with them, because some of us don't want to spend this money for a watch with the Miyota 821a movement.
It’s nice when you show yourself wearing the watch in real life to get an idea how it wears 👍🏻
Nice review!! Regards from México.
How big wrists do you have?
I have 6.2 inch wrist. Does 39mm work or it will be overpowering?
Can't say for sure, but I think it would be fine. Traditionally fleigers were large watches, so even if it's a bit bigger than you normally go it still should for fine!
Hey nice video 👍 may I know your wrist size plz. I am planning to buy one. My wrist size is 6.45
Have you’d seen the San Martin Aviator watch
Yeah, almost bought it a bunch of times. From a raw specs stand point I suspect it's a better value than this. I'd have to see it up close though. I tend to be pretty impressed with the details in Laco's watches, and if heritage and origin is important to you, Laco definitely has the edge there.
Raw specs, a made in China AliExpress watch with Chinese taxes and labour will always have the edge. Would still rather be wearing a Laco, even at a slight premium
nintendokings for sure!
Bought a 40 mm Tisell Flieger for much less than that and I cannot be happier. All the bells and whistles of the Laco for (almost) half the price. I suppose it's a question of whether you focus on the brand/heritage or the actual product. Still a bit disappointed Tisell wasn't mentioned when talking about the affordable flieger sector.
I've always had a hard time tracking down where exactly to buy Tissel watches, which is one reason they aren't on my radar too often, but from what I've seen, their flieger's look like some really great values.
@@JusttheWatch True, channels of distribution are always a bit off with most of the micro brands! Anyway, I enjoyed your video! :)
But where are they made ? They are not super cheap neither : between 250 and 299 euros....
@@yooyist Think their prices went up comparing to when I was buying mine. They're made in South Korea.
The A dial is growing on me
I’m glad you mentioned the green hue to the markers. It’s a horrible look and enough to return it.
how can i get a review of my watches done by you, I am launching a watch company soon
I'm a little busy right now, but shoot me an email with info about your watch and your launch and we can talk about it. You can get my email address from my channel's About tab.
Wanted a pilots watch but could not justify the $400 for the Laco - went with the STEELDIVE brand associated with San Martin and Lugyou - 39mm, sapphire, NH35, 200m WR, screw down crown and case back, C3 lume. This watch keeps good time and looks good in the $125US price range. Thoughts on this brand, if any?
Cheap ass
I must be the only one underwhelmed by this Laco. The finish on the lugs at 4 mins looks as rough as a badgers bottom, imo.
How does the Laco compare to the Islander Fliegers?
Haven't gotten a chance to see the islander in person, but is suspect the islander is better specs for the price, while the Laco has more impressive heritage.
The movement is a deal-breaker. Seems like everything else is top-notch. But heritage or no heritage, using a movement that is regularly found in $50 watches is inexcusable at that price. It's like Rolex deciding to put out a lower level Submariner with a low-tier ETA and selling it for $3,200. Sure, you're getting the Rolex heritage but it makes no sense.
The 821a in my Laco is running +7 spd. Why is that a deal breaker? Not enough decoration? Power reserve too short?
Best flieger watch you can get under 400$ is the Islander aviator.
For 199$ you get anti-reflective sapphire glass, nh35 movement, 100m water resistance and full c3 lume.
I had one, sold it after a few months. I found the hour and minute markers crowded the dial too much for my liking. I agree, great value though.
Nice review, is there a ghost date on this model?
Yes. See his earlier response to same question.
@@jimwatchyyc Thanks. I don't read comments.
Unizeit has it's replica with ETA movement.
Sir, how about laco used look? Is that a good watch?
believe that is in their more expensive line , but that is a cool looking watch, they do a great job on it and I think the look really fits the watch, I know the fake distressed look is not for everyone though
how much tickness???????
I'm torn between saving money by buying this or stepping up to the Pro. :(
僕も日本に住んでいました!富山県で!いずれにしても、英語で続きましょう(笑)!I actually have my grandfather’s Laco from the 1940s, which until discovering your channel and scouring the Interwebs periodically over the past year hadn’t actually been able to make the name Laco out on the watch face; it hasn’t as much eroded from time as I just couldn’t read the cursive font. Anyway, I took it to one watch shop; it was an elderly man who didn’t seem to know a hair spring from a hair dryer, and was curious if you might recommend anyone stateside who could put it in working order. All the best!
How accurate this watch
So the new movement with hacking cost similar as the non-hacking one?
In regards to this particular watch, no, Laco is charging the same price as they did when the movement didn't have hacking. I'm not sure if Miyota is charging more now that they've upgraded the movement or not. If I recall properly the 821A used to be simply a decorated version of the 8215, and as such was already priced slightly above it. Now by adding hacking to the 821A it's got a lot more value added to it.
@@JusttheWatch I see. Thanks for the heads up. I was really considering on buying this particular model. But with it being non-hackable, kinda makes it a deal breaker for me. Thanks for the tip btw. Looking forward on your next video. Cheers and stay safe!
Aizuddin Fahmi It is hackable you just gotta ask for it to be sure
How would you compare this to the Orient Star outdoor?
I'd say that the finishing on the Outdoor is a little better, but it's close. The Outdoor also has a much more premium movement, it's an Orient in house automatic with 50 hours of power reserve and a power-reserve indicator. Lume on both is excellent, and while the printed dial on the Laco is exactly what you want from a traditional flieger, I prefer the more intricate dial design with applied indices on the Orient. Retail price on the Orient is about $200 more than the Laco, but occasionally you can find them at comparable prices. If you can find an Orient Star Outdoor at the same price as the Laco, I'd say it's the better value, and I prefer it over the Laco. One area where the Laco is significantly better is the strap. The strap on the Orient, while nice that it has a deployant clasp, is made of some cheap feeling leather that isn't particularly comfortable on the wrist.
@@JusttheWatch Thanks for the elaborate reply, that was very helpful. Exactly the kind of comparison I was hoping for :)
Well... In Switzerland surprisingly the Augusburg retails for 325.- Swiss Francs which is aprox. the same as US-Dollars (maybe 330$). Normally everthing is more expensive in Switzerland!
Maybe import taxes are higher to the US? Dunno.
@@JusttheWatch yeah that must be it...
Nice