Ulm and Würzburg 39

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For Pilot watch enthusiasts, Laco watches really needs no introduction. Founded in 1925, they were one of the original manufacturers of German Flieger watches. Still based in Pforzheim, Germany, Laco is known for their exacting quality, exceptional finishing, and attention to design detail. 

The Ulm and Würzburg bring a new feature to Laco’s iconic pilot line — a sub-seconds complication. While traditional Flieger watches commonly feature a centrally-mounted seconds hand, these new models offer a different take on the Teutonic classic. The Ulm features a Type A dial, the more minimalistic of the two, while the Würzburg uses the Type B dial, known for its large minute track. 

The Ulm and Würzburg feature 39mm stainless steel cases — a welcome modern refinement from their historical counterparts’ 55mm cases — with complementary polished and matte finishing, their large dials stark and legible. This is further emphasized by Laco’s use of C3 Super-LumiNova on the dial and hands. Both feature oversized “diamond” crowns for ease of operation, a detail leftover from pilots needing to adjust their watches while wearing thick leather gloves, and come on stitched brown leather straps.

The engine within these aviation-inspired tool watches is Laco’s 261 caliber—an elaboré-grade Sellita SW261—with Côtes de Genève finishing on the bridges, blued screws, with hand-winding on both models and hacking on the Ulm. Laco notes that the Würzburg does not have this last feature. Visible through an exhibition caseback, this Swiss-made 31-jewel hand-wound movement offers 28,800 bph (4hz) and 38 hours of power reserve. Based on the venerable ETA 2824, one of the most commonly-found base movements, it is a tried and true design known for reliability and ease of servicing.