Pilot watches long ago transcended tool-watch status to become popular everyday sport models for the earthbound admirers of their rugged good looks. Now, a spate of bronze-encased, purpose-built aviators invests the classic look with vintage elán.
Retro military styling marks a new trio of bronze flieger (the German word for pilot) watches from Laco. The brand, originally known as Lacher & Co., once equipped Luftwaffe pilots with robust, reliable flight instruments. The automatic Münster Bronze ($1,990, not shown) and Leipzig Bronze ($1,990, top right), with 42-mm, sandblasted bronze cases, matte black dials and riveted brown calfskin straps for added antique character, would be at home in a World War II movie. Super-LumiNova lights up the hands and markers for visibility after dark and both are appointed with the flieger’s trademark…
