time-keeper


Laco Edition 99 pays tribute to nearly 100 years of craftsmanship

December 2024


Laco Edition 99 pays tribute to nearly 100 years of craftsmanship

The German brand’s Mission 2025 is approaching another milestone with this fifth special edition on its path to the 100th anniversary. For the first time, the model combines the case and design of the Basic series with authentic pilot’s watch details, including the historic FL23883 engraving.

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he German watch brand Laco unveils the limited Edition 99, an exclusive special edition created as a tribute to the company’s nearly 100 years of watchmaking heritage. As the fifth special edition in the “Mission 2025” series, marking the journey to the 100th anniversary, the Edition 99 is the final model before the grand celebration next year.

Limited to just 99 pieces, it is the first to combine features of Laco’s Original and PRO series with the basic collection, which serves as an entry into the world of mechanical Laco pilot watches. This distinctive blend of the classic style of historical pilot watches and modern design elements is truly one of a kind. Paired with an attractive price of under €500, this makes the watch a coveted collector’s piece that is sure to sell out quickly.

The 42 mm stainless steel case showcases the iconic FL23883 engraving—a hallmark of historical observation watches, traditionally found only in Laco’s Original and PRO series. Rounded lugs and the matte, sandblasted finish, introduced to the basic collection for the first time, lend the watch its bold and striking appearance. Completing the look, the dark brown leather strap features a sandblasted buckle that perfectly harmonises with the overall design.

The dial features the classic Baumuster B layout of traditional pilot watches and incorporates another authentic detail from historical timepieces: Only every second numeral on the outer minute ring is coated with Super-LumiNova C3. While nearly white in daylight, the luminous material glows with a vibrant green hue at night, ensuring optimal readability – a vital feature for reliable cockpit instruments.

The thermally blued hands, also enhanced with luminous material, add a touch of elegance. Created using a time-honoured watchmaking technique, the bluing process involves heating the hands to approximately 300°C, forming a deep blue oxide layer that enhances durability and protects against corrosion.

Laco Edition 99 pays tribute to nearly 100 years of craftsmanship

The Edition 99 introduces a redesigned crown: larger and more tactile than those on the other basic models, yet more refined than the crowns of the original series – perfect for precise handling and a nod to the functional design of pilot watches. At its heart, the Laco 2S automatic movement, based on the Miyota 82S0, ensures reliable timekeeping. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the movement offers a 42-hour power reserve and a stop-seconds function, making it a dependable companion. For those seeking an upgrade, the Laco 31 caliber, with a 60-hour power reserve and thermally blued screws, is also available.

Laco Edition 99 pays tribute to nearly 100 years of craftsmanship

The Edition 99 is the first to combine features of the basic collection with the distinctive characteristics of Laco’s PRO and Original series. This fusion makes the watch a truly distinctive model within Laco’s portfolio.

Strictly limited to just 99 pieces, each watch features an individual serial number engraved on the case back. With this edition, Laco once again demonstrates its deep-rooted tradition and passion for pilot watches, seamlessly blending timeless design with modern elements and the highest standards of quality.

The Laco Edition 99 is available at a price of €490 directly from Laco and selected retailers. Its exclusive features and strict limitation make this timepiece highly sought after, ensuring strong interest from collectors and watch lovers.

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