laco

Laco is a German watch manufacturer with a long association with pilot watches and aviation timing. The brand traces its origins to the 1920s, emerging from the company name Lacher & Co. and becoming known for producing reliable, legible timepieces designed for professional use. The Laco name has endured as a reference point for German Flieger (pilot) watch design.

During World War II, Laco supplied watches to the Luftwaffe, producing the large, highly legible dial designs used by pilots. These watches, commonly referred to as B-type or Beobachtungsuhr pilot watches, featured prominent numerals, clear minute tracks, and robust construction to withstand demanding conditions. The wartime production is a notable part of the brand’s historical identity.

After the war, Laco’s output changed with shifting markets and manufacturing conditions. In the late 20th century, the brand was revitalized as a contemporary watchmaker focused on mechanical timepieces that evoke the classic pilot-watch heritage. The revival emphasized functional design, precision, and traditional aesthetics rather than fashion-driven experimentation.

Today, Laco offers a range of mechanical watches that maintain the core pilot-watch ethos: large, legible dials; straightforward layouts; and durable cases. Models typically feature automatic or hand-wound movements, primarily sourced from Swiss manufacturers such as ETA or Sellita, with cases and dial finishes reflecting the utilitarian, no-nonsense style associated with Flieger watches. Some lines also emphasize vintage-inspired elements, domed crystals, and leather straps to reinforce the traditional feel.

Overall, Laco is regarded as a traditional German watch brand that preserves a heritage of practical, purpose-built timepieces suitable for both enthusiasts and collectors of aviation-inspired watches.