Male watches Laco Original Replica 55 Type B

The German Laco Replica 55 Type B watch is an exceptionally faithful reproduction of a historic pilot’s watch that served as a navigation instrument in the 1940s. Laco revisits this distinctive model in a design that respects both the original construction and its characteristic details. The result is not merely a watch with a retro look, but a tribute to an important chapter in the history of the brand and watchmaking.

These historic observation watches, known as the B-Uhr (from the German Beobachtungsuhren), were characterized by strictly defined specifications and, above all, exceptional readability. Laco was among the five manufacturers (alongside IWC, Lange & Söhne, Stowa, and Wempe) authorized to produce these military watches in accordance with the requirements of the Reichsluftfahrtministerium ( RLM) (the former German Ministry of Aviation). It thus contributed to the creation of a watchmaking classic that became an inspiration for many other manufacturers.

The watch’s purpose dictated the design of every detail, from the large case and the easy-to-read dial to the surface finish, which was intended to minimize unwanted glare in the cockpit. The current Laco Replica 55 builds on this original concept, deliberately featuring a 55-mm case diameter.

The black matte Type B dial retains the characteristic layout of the original observer’s watches. The minute scale, featuring an arrow at the 12 o’clock position—which pilots used for quick orientation—is printed around the perimeter of the dial, while the hour scale is printed on the inner circle. The dial features no logo or other distracting elements.
Luminescent coating on the hands, numerals, and hour markers ensures better readability in low-light conditions. The watch hands are heat-blued.
The dial is protected by a double-domed, anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

The stainless steel case features a dark sandblasted finish, straight lugs, and a distinctive onion-shaped crown. The side of the case bears the marking FL23883, the classification number associated with historical observer’s watches. The case offers anti-magnetic protection and is water-resistant to 50 m.
It is complemented by a brown calfskin pilot’s strap, which is riveted to sturdy lugs. Its closed construction is based on the original design. When putting on the watch, the strap is pulled over the wrist, which reduces the risk of the watch falling off when removed.

The watch is powered by a Laco 97 hand-wound mechanical movement, based on the ETA 6497.1 movement. This movement was modified at the Laco manufactory in Pforzheim, and the off-center seconds hand was adjusted to a central position, just like on the historical original.
The movement is equipped with Incabloc shock protection, a swan’s neck regulator for fine adjustment, and a hacking function to stop the seconds hand when setting the time. The movement’s serial number is engraved directly on the movement and on the outer side of the solid caseback. The inner side of the caseback features markings inspired by historic observer’s watches.

The Laco Replica 55 B, with a case diameter of 55 mm, a height of 19.5 mm, and a strap width of 26 mm, is aimed primarily at collectors, connoisseurs, and fans of pilot’s watches who will appreciate its meticulous attention to historical details.

You can also find this watch under the model number Laco 862195.