Overview Laco's Aachen 39 is a direct descendant of the legendary B-Uhr observation watches supplied to the Luftwaffe in WWII. This modern interpretation distills the core Flieger elements into a more wearable 39mm case, making a historically significant design accessible for everyday wear. It strikes a careful balance between heritage and contemporary practicality.
Design The Aachen proudly wears its Type B Flieger layout, with a prominent outer minute track and a smaller inner hour circle. The stark, high-contrast dial features thick, luminous cathedral hands and large, legible numerals. The 39mm stainless steel case is a masterstroke, offering a perfect wrist presence that works under a cuff or on the weekend. The bead-blasted finish provides a utilitarian, non-reflective look true to its tool watch origins. The supplied leather strap is robust and breaks in nicely.
Movement Powering the Aachen is the Japanese Miyota 821A automatic movement. This is a proven, no-nonsense workhorse known for its reliability and ease of service. While it lacks the prestige of a Swiss or German in-house calibre, its accuracy is solid for the price, and its rotor winds efficiently. The exhibition case back is a welcome modern addition, letting owners view the oscillating weight, even if the finishing is industrial.
Value In the sub-$500 microbrand arena, the Aachen 39 offers exceptional value for a watch with such direct historical lineage. You are paying for authentic design and solid construction, not marketing hype. Compared to its pricier German competitors, the Aachen delivers nearly identical aesthetic appeal and function, with the main compromise being the Japanese movement instead of a German one.
Verdict The Laco Aachen 39 is a near-perfect gateway Flieger. It respects the original blueprint while adapting it for modern tastes with its ideal size and sapphire crystal. For enthusiasts seeking a genuine piece of pilot watch history without a four-figure price tag, the Aachen is a compelling and highly recommended choice. It's a tool watch in spirit that earns its place as a versatile daily companion.