When the second counts – Laco Ulm & Würzburg

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Pforzheim, March 2024 – To kick off the new watch year, the watch manufacturer Laco presents a reissue of its pilot watches “Ulm” and “Würzburg”. New to this release is a midsize version with a reduced diameter of 39 millimeters. With the additional case size, the traditional German manufacturer responds to the high demand from their fan community, which desires authentic pilot watches in more compact dimensions. For enthusiasts of more striking models, Laco is reintroducing the “Ulm” and “Würzburg” with a diameter of 42.5 millimeters. These were part of the collection until a few years ago and are now experiencing a revival. Laco already demonstrates that successful design works in multiple sizes with numerous other pilot watches in the collection.

Small second – big impact

This short but apt description applies especially to the classic 42.5 mm models, which impress with the proven UNITAS ETA 6498.2, a legendary caliber of watchmaking art. Once used in pocket watches, this special manual winding movement is now rarely found. In the smaller variants, the compact Swiss caliber Sellita SW261 is used. Both are presented through the large sapphire crystal case back and exhibit traditional finishes such as decorative cuts and thermally blued screws.

Authentic pilot watch meets modern elegance

All four timepieces feature a black dial in the classic instrument-style of historical observation watches. While the dial of the Laco “Ulm” follows type A with Arabic numerals and a pilot watch triangle at twelve o’clock, the Laco “Würzburg” model is inspired by the dial type B. Here, the outer minute track surrounds the inner hour circle. A subtle but impactful detail is the small seconds sub-dial at six o’clock, which elegantly and harmoniously integrates into the design. For maximum contrast, the numerals and indices, each coated with Superluminova C3 luminescent material, stand out clearly against the dark background. For optimal readability in all lighting conditions, the hands, in the typical lozenge shape for pilot watches with a thermally blued frame, are also coated with luminescent material. Any reflections that could hinder time reading are reduced by the internally anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

Stylish on the go – no matter where

The sporty-elegant look of the watches is due, among other things, to the effective combination of matte and polished surfaces. Additionally, the use of manual winding movements allows the use of an especially slim case. Thus, the larger models have a thickness of not even 11 mm, while the smaller variants are even slimmer at 9.7 mm. This allows them to fit under any shirt sleeve and ensure an elegant appearance in the office. With a pressure resistance of ten bar – equivalent to 100 meters of water resistance – they are not only equipped for adventures in the cockpit but also for numerous challenges in everyday life.

The classic-elegant pilot watches are completed with a brown strap made of smooth leather. The Laco “Ulm” and Laco “Würzburg” are now available for €1,290 (39 mm models) and €1,690 (42.5 mm models), at Laco and selected retailers.

About Laco: Manufacture with passion and tradition
The German watch brand Laco, based in the black forest town Pforzheim, has a corporate history that stretches back to 1925. The “Golden City” has been the location for this small but long-established manufacturer from the very beginning.
This traditional company earned its fame by constructing the legendary 55 mm sized observation watch, as one of only five licensed firms in the 1940s. Around twenty years later, with more than 1200 employees, Laco was counted as one of Germany’s largest watch manufacturers. Today, the small team places emphasis again on handcraft. It is quality that counts in production, not quantity.
The products range from pilot and navy watches, through to elegant chronographs and the purist Classic Line. But all Laco models have one thing in common: the highest quality, outstanding design and functionality in use.
In addition to their own online shop, Laco also offers for sale at the factory in Pforzheim. From Monday to Friday, this offers an opportunity to pick up a new watch directly from where experienced watchmakers have manufactured it intricately by hand.

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