Rare, high-quality Laco, German Airforce Issued, Beobachtungs-uhren (B-Uhr) Military Luftwaffe World War Two Wrist Watch - Type B Dial.

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Watches that were issued to German flying personnel are prized collectibles today and were primarily watches intended for use by an aircraft’s Observer – the mission’s navigator.  Known as the Beobachtungsuhr – often abbreviated to B-Uhr – and specified by the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (Air Ministry), five makers supplied the watches to the Luftwaffe: A Lange & Sohne (see ours on offer), IWC, Laco (Lacher & Co), Stowa and Wempe. 

These manufacturers were asked to build a watch with a case diameter of 55mm, chronometer-quality movement with a Breguet type balance spring, a hackable seconds hand, a crown with enough protrusion to allow a gloved hand to wind it, and a strap allowing wear over the sleeve of flight clothing.  The makers met the basic functional requirements by using modified variants of their pocket watch movements. The Luft B-Uhr had two iterations – initially with a very simple dial (Type A), and, from 1942, with a more distinctive layout featuring a small, inner, concentric hours track (Type B) which is offered for sale here. 

What’s On Offer 

FL-23883.  By Lacher & Co., Deutsche Uhren Rohwerke (LACO/Durowe). Luftwaffe B-Uhr (Beobachtungsuhr) Observers Wristwatch, Type B dial c.1942. The case back is engraved 'H5518' matching the engraving on the movement. High-quality observation watch with 55mm diameter case in matt grey finished nickel-plated brass.  Black dial with fully luminesced Arabic numerals, chapter ring for minutes/seconds, inner 12-hour ring, hands and sweep second hand. Laco's were of German manufacture with a high quality 22 jewel anti-magnetic movement with balance stopping 'hacking' feature for accurate time setting prior to use.  

This watch was aquired by an Englishman who was a member of a WWII communications unit who collected various items throughout his time in Europe during and after the war, this watch is very much a collector's piece and will bring much joy to any military enthusiast. In nice condition and running well having been serviced recently by our watchmaker, this is a much sought-after timepiece steeped in history. Running extremely well and in great condition having not been worn by the previous owner for many many years!

Additional information

Made from

Case: Nickel-Plated Brass

Dial: Black

Crystal: Plexiglas

Bracelet: Hand made using vintage leather

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual

Movement Type: Mechanical

Caliber: (Durowe) cal. 5

Jewels: 22j

Waterproof: n/a

Power reserve:

Purchase details

Condition: Very Good

Model Reference: FL23883

Date of issue: c.1942

Warranty: 12 Months VWS

Dimensions

Width (without crown): 55mm

Lug width: 26mm

Lug height: (lug to lug) 64.5

Wrist size: Adjustable