The Laco has more accurate size, finish, crown, lugs (very important in separating these post war copies) thickness. The Stowa may have built them during the war but only the Laco caries the design nearly unchanged. The Laco is an absolutely cool example of the true "classic" Flieger.
Laco is a much better watch. The Stowa is prettier but there are many pretty watches around, too much, a sterile watch as close to the historic piece as possible is more valuable to me for such pieces.
@@antonc108 You can get a sterile Stowa, like the guy in the video did, so I don't see why you're mentioning that. Wanting a true to original style flieger is definitely a thing Laco provides, but Stowa is a historic maker, they evolved the watch.
I mean, that's cool, the authenticity is there, however they charge more for lesser movement offering and just more in general. Stowa's are slightly different from the OG designs, almost like they've evolved them slightly to make them more aesthetically pleasing. It's a higher quality watch in that sense.
JuggusNawt well thank you for viewing and the nice comment. Note, I believe that Stowa and Laco have introduced some new options. I haven’t yet looked at those.
@@adventureswithtime I'm looking for a flieger watch myself and your video was super helpful. I use charts myself when assessing which watch to buy lol. Flieger watches in their heyday were basically flight instruments, so they had to be large and visible. Today we mount them on naked wrists so I don't think we need them to be too large, only to fit and wear well. I would also go with the Stowa as it's not as thick as the Laco (IWC while the sentimental option is ridiculously overpriced for what you get and will never be an option for me).
Great video and very helpful as I recently concluded the same comparison. I opted for the Laco Paderborn B dial mostly because I preferred the case finish and I'm enjoying it immensely. That said, it was a very difficult decision but in truth I would have also been thrilled to have the Stowa. Who knows, perhaps some day a Stowa A dial would be a perfect compliment to my Laco B dial.
Great video! Both Laco and Stowa make excellent flieger watches and both have a lot of heritage. I have a Stowa A dial and a Laco B dial and love both. I think the Laco is a more authentic looking replica (although it is much smaller) but the Stowa is very marginally more nicely finished. However both look superb, both are very high quality watches and both are good value as high quality watches go. Both of mine are hand wound as i think fliegers are best with a hand wind movement and a sterile dial is best. That said, for those on a budget the Laco basic flieger range are very good. You lose the sterile dial and some might not want a Miyota movement but for the price they're excellent if you don't want to spend the money on one of their fliger original models.
I looked through all available Fliegers and chose the Stowa for the same reasons you did: authenticity, history, and price. Good choice and great looking watch.
I've wanted a Flieger since finding out about them here on YT. I finally got a 42 mm Laco Aachen about a month ago, used, but indistinguishable from new with all the original packaging. I wanted a mechanical watch in a Military style and history, and these are perfect. Now I would like to get a more upscale model like the Paderborn, with a higher end movement, but for now the deal on this was too good to pass up.
Hi Bob, a very well and thought through video, I actually came to the same conclusions but went for the A dial. But, over a longer period of time I let it go, i think I should have gone for a B type dial. Thinking about getting again a Flieger, I wished Stowa would offer additional these watches in a bigger case. I do leave a like and subscribed, greetings from Germany, Konstantin
Nice to know the information between these watches and of course what swayed your decision for you at each point. I think after watching this video i think ill go with the laco as i just prefer the way the lugs connect the case with the strap gives it a more rounded shape watch. Thats just my preference and again fantastic video and hope you enjoy every time you look at it.
@@adventureswithtime It is amazing how well tan goes with black and is a nice contrast with white. Black on black seems like it should be a winner,but,not quite. The Hamilton military with the black face has tan hands to simulate the aging effect. It looks better than white. The subtle contrast looks great. The German watch you picked out is a real gem with the onion crown. German aviation was remarkable as well. The history of the triangle is really neat. With iPhones , electronic car clocks and tablets the battery driven watch can be omitted. The mechanical hand wound watch is better now because the cell phone and tablet are readably available to keep accuracy. Complications are taken care of by the smartphone with a built in calendar that is synced to other devices. Winding a watch every morning keeps a unique connection between man and machine. The mechanical precision is remarkable. Sapphire lenses are unsurpassed. Love wearing shades of history on the wrist. More fun than a Rolex. It is cool to enjoy without being a show off. Like a sense of inner peace connecting with people and mechanical precision of the past. An uncluttered easy to read subtle piece of jewelry.
For me, I wanted a Flieger that most-closely resembled the originals, so a couple years ago, I selected the Laco (formerly Lacher & Co.) Friedrichshafen Bronze 45mm watch, complete with the split/riveted wristband. It’s not the same diameter as the originals, but it’s still a handsome watch, and the bronze case develops a unique patina of its own. I love mine. Last month, I bought a limited-edition Laco Aachen Oliv 42mm watch (mine is #63 of 250). It included a standard wristband, but Laco also tossed in a smaller version of the the split/riveted wristband that mimics the Friedrichshafen Bronze’s wristband. I didn’t hesitate to install it. It looks terrific. I wish that I could share photos. My Oliv 42mm watch is more wearable for daily use.
Right yesterday I went in Engelsbrand in Pforzheim. I didn't know that Stowa is located there. I was right driving through the snowy street when I saw the Stowa factory.
I agree with Rosemarie and think that tan is a good choice ! The original strap would have been in tan (wartime choice) and will develop with time - an interesting patina !
Hi, Bob. I like your approach on selecting the Stowa, which I might add looks great. I’m new into watches and am considering a flieger for my collection later this year. This video will come in handy. Thank you.
Lovely review Bob. Thank you. As soon as I have paid for my new Sinn 104, which I just love, this will be my next purchase. I already had this on my short list, but one watch at a time. Am looking forward to your other reviews.
As a mech. ing. student the sheet part got me giggling. Nice and clean overview, do simiarly looking at watches, just in notes on my phone. Went with a oliv Aachen 39mm for my thinner wrists. Became my daily watch right away and I absolutely love it. I am planning on getting a Type A flieger as well. I do enjoy the Stowa's look, but with my 10+ years long obsession with everything that is WWII aviation, I want the one with the more authentic look, and I am high on the OCD scale. So think I will have to spec. up a Laco Stuttgart (pro), so I can spec it with all my needs to my specification. Thanks for the overview.
I like the camel strap a lot more. I think you made the right choice. The Laco is great but perhaps rather too true to the original. I also am not too keen on the sand blasted finish. I was, earlier this year, considering a Stowa, however WatchGecko released a Fliegler copy in both Type A and Type B. It has an ETA movement and is a lot cheaper than either of the German brands. Also it has a bit more practicality being water resistant down to 10ATM. Having seen your review, I am now slightly doubting my purchase. It is always great to have an original brand. However I content myself by reasoning that the watch could be made by anyone. The Luftwaffe wanted the design and found five companies to make it.
@@adventureswithtime You're welcome. Great review by the way. My thought process was similar, if not as structured, in arriving at Stowa. That is until WatchGecko threw the curve ball
Great 👍 VLOG Bob, I have several vintage Pilot watches in my collection, and have purchased new Laco & Stowa Watches, in my opinion the Stowa Watch beats Laco hands down in terms of quality & finish.
I've heard passionate arguments on both sides of the Stowa / Laco debate. I think they are both good brands and it's up to the buyer to decide what suits them best. Thanks for sharing. I love hearing from other collectors; what they do and why. I am learning so much doing this. And having fun.
Thanks for a very informative and well presented video review. I have been considering a Laco (but in a smaller dial) but now, after noting your presentation, I'll have to look at the Stowa too.
Sherry Carpenter I did make some compromises. One was to get an automatic; as I don’t think it alters the aesthetics. Thanks for watch and please consider subscribing as continue commenting. I just love all the input I get.
Thanks for the excellent, very helpful review! You did a lot of the work for me. Looks like when the time comes, I’ll probably buy the Laco Paderborn because I like the authenticity and the look of the sand blasted case. Edit April 30, 2019 - I still haven’t bought this watch, but I’m getting ready to. I think my mind has changed since I posted the above and now I’m looking at the Stowa, the same one you picked for similar reasons.
@@adventureswithtime no problem. I actually ended up buying an Archimede 42B a few years ago as I thought it was a better value than Laco or Stowa. I sold it recently, part of selling half of my collection, getting rid of the ones I liked but didn’t love.
Hi, If you check the prices on the official website of both manufacturers you can see the Stowa is more expensive, not much (70 EUR), but expensive. Stowa is 1050 EUR, Laco 980 EUR. But good comparison.
I've had a lot of comments on both side of the Stowa / Laco discussion. I think either are great watches and its up to the buyer to determine which they like best. Sorry for the delayed response. I need to get into the practice of responding to viewers in a more timely manner. Viewers deserve that from me. Thank you
Great review and buying guide. I would also be leaning towards the Stowa, but I would totally go with the manual wound version so I can really enjoy that onion crown every day. Now both companies are using Selita movements as since your video, ETA has been harder for them to source as it is now owned by the Swatch Group (correct me if I’m wrong).
Nice review, information packed 13 mins. I assume you order the watch to be delivered in USA. If yes, how much of import duty or tax was charged for delivery. I plan to order online to be delivered to Seattle. Thanks
great video and review! I love flieger watches as well and Stowa makes wonderful pieces; as I already have a flieger in my small collection, I'm thinking of getting a bauhaus style watch from Stowa, the Antea 1919
Literally in the same boat. But I feel as though I am going to end up with the Laco. But that Stowa really is a beautiful watch, hope you are enjoying it.
Bob, I am from the Netherlands and new to your channel. Great video! I completely agree with your choice for the Stowa flieger uhr. German watches are rising stars worldwide, I think. See you in the next one!
Thank you for watching and hopefully you've subscribed 😉. And keep providing me feedback. It's through these exchanges that I learn more about the hobby and what people like/dislike about my channel so I can improve my content.
Hey I dont often comment on UA-cam but i had to for this video I can tell you are really into this hobby and are passionate about it really good work this is the first video I watched from you and i already subscribed great work on thism
Thank you very much. Your video here is very educational, informative and helpful. I would go with their Bauhause white face watch Antea Klassik 390.. But their website isn't telling if it has sapphire crystal and anti reflection. Still much cheaper in price then the Nomos of approximately same style kinda.
@@vegardvang519 Don't get me wrong. I still believe the Stowa is a great watch. I just couldn't keep all of my watches since I retired. You will definitely enjoy this watch.
Hello. I have a question about how you ordered your Stowa. I went to their website and it was in Euros. Did you have any issues with ordering from the US, and did you have to pay any other fees or taxes? Do you recommend any dealers? I want to buy the flieger bronze classic. Thanks for your help!
Thanks. I love these comparisons myself. They are also interesting and I tend to find out things I didn't realize before. Sorry for the delayed response. I need to get into the practice of responding to viewers in a more timely manner. Viewers deserve that from me. Thank you
Thanks for the input. I know what you mean about those rivets in the strap (I think that is to what you are referring). But I take it as part of the tool aspect/feel of the watch. Certain there are lots of other straps I can use for this watch; maybe a nato.
Stowa prices have changed, the Laco in person looks better than the Stowa to me. But I'd be happy with either one. The laco Flieger pro is what I'm looking at right now
That was a good review and breakdown of both models. The Stowa is nice, but I still prefer the Laco. I do have a vintage, 55mm Laco, and their 42/45 mm are just a scaled down version of the originals. I like the flat lugs as it was the same on the originals. But both are excellent watches and enjoy wearing it!
Wow. can you wear a 55mm watch without it looking strange. I imagine wearing it outside of a flight suit it looks good. But on a bare wrist must look strange. But a great watch to have in one's collection. Can I ask where you purchased it?
Excellent review. I appreciate your explanation on how you narrowed your choices to the 2 brands. I've been looking at Stowa as well for a classic Flieger. Question: Did you consider the 43mm? My wrist size is similar at 7.25".
If you mean the sport version which I think is 43mm, yes I did consider it. But it seems to have a slightly different bezel. So I stayed with this one. Good luck. Happy collecting
Great choice, but I got to say that with massive wrist like that I feel like you had the opportunity to really go all out with the style of this watch and go for maybe 46 mm or something. I am over here with 6 1/4 lol
For me, width is very important, some say it is a complication in itself. 3 mm is a huge difference. AND the Laco costs more money! It's a no-brainer for me.
Excellent video! Wish I had seen it earlier. I'm waiting on delivery of the Paderborn which I chose over the Stowa because the display back pushed the Stowa a bit too far from the original models. Aside from that we are in complete agreement. Thanks for posting this. You've earned a new subscriber👍.
I went with the IWC Mark XVI, but it is far from being historically accurate. I love both Stowa and Laco. Stowa's customer service has a great reputation.
Trev Barlow I haven’t had to contact Stowa customer service, but it’s good to know they are responsive. Have fun with your IWC. So many watches so few wrists (and money). Thanks for watching
I figured you for a Stowa guy. If I had the budget? Stowa flieger. If B on a smaller budget ? Lacos. If I did not care about history but wanted an updated flieger, ETA 2824 MOVEMENT, BLUED HANDS, somewhat onion crown, Awesome price? Steinhart. Though they too offer higher pricecpoint versions.
Thank you for watching and hopefully you've subscribed 😉. And keep providing me feedback. It's through these exchanges that I learn more about the hobby and what people like/dislike about my channel so I can improve my content.
To have gone classic you could have bought the hand wind movement variant. At that price point I would have gone hand wind. I might have leaned to laco as they used bead blast appearance I'm keeping with WW2 matte look.
Nice review... I was asking myself the same question! I see now Laco has a 39mm case also and for the price is more convenient. May be two years ago the situation was different. One curiosity, why didn't you go with the hand winding movement since it's more like the original?
Good question. At the time I was focused on automatic watches for the convenience. Also, I don't think the automatic changes the aesthetics of the watch much.
@@adventureswithtime well, the aestethic is the same but it's thinner and why not stay with the original! Unless you don't like to wind your watch, then it makes sense. Never mind anyway, just my thoughs... :)
Not surprised the Sinn 104 didn't scratch the itch for a Flieger. However, it does make for a handsome desk diver. Picked up my Flieger a couple of weeks ago and am surprised with how much I enjoy what I had previously derided as Nazi memorabilia. It's these types of self discoveries that are such a bonus to this hobby. We have been collecting for about the same length of time, so your topics overlap well with my state of the collection.
I liked your watch but I found a budget one on Amazon. I wonder what you think of it at $80. Its listed as a Mil-TEc Vintage Aviator watch Black dial Flieger Luftwaffe Pilot Quartz Mens WW2 Wristwatch.
Hi Bob excellent review! I have a question, what kind of version Do you have? Because I see you winding your watch. In the page they have two options of movement, one that says automatic and oder one That says handwinding, But the back of your watch is like the automatic version, that´s why I´m confused. Hope yuo can help me.
I think the original camel strap looks more interesting since the watch already has a black dial so the strap adds some spice. Or maybe it's just my personal thing for that leather colour spectrum. Anyway late congratulations on acqusition of a historical classic. Hopefully I'll get them too in the future
you remind me of De Niro :) on the video - laco is better as a tool watch, stowa is dressier. If I were you - with a 7 7/8 inch wrist I would have jumped on the larger laco. However, the stowa is fantastic, I'm looking forward to buying y own type A :) All the best!
The Laco has more accurate size, finish, crown, lugs (very important in separating these post war copies) thickness. The Stowa may have built them during the war but only the Laco caries the design nearly unchanged. The Laco is an absolutely cool example of the true "classic" Flieger.
That point has been made. Yes, they are more accurate to the WW2 Fliegers. Personally, I made a tradeoff of style for accuracty.
Laco is a much better watch. The Stowa is prettier but there are many pretty watches around, too much, a sterile watch as close to the historic piece as possible is more valuable to me for such pieces.
@@antonc108 You can get a sterile Stowa, like the guy in the video did, so I don't see why you're mentioning that. Wanting a true to original style flieger is definitely a thing Laco provides, but Stowa is a historic maker, they evolved the watch.
I mean, that's cool, the authenticity is there, however they charge more for lesser movement offering and just more in general. Stowa's are slightly different from the OG designs, almost like they've evolved them slightly to make them more aesthetically pleasing. It's a higher quality watch in that sense.
Laco is the only true flieger in town.End of discussion.
I like both straps. You seem very nice.
Thank you very much
One of the best and technical watch videos I´ve ever seen. Congrats!
Wow. Thank you so much. If you haven't already, please subscribe and tell all of your watch enthusiast friends about my channel. Happy collecting.
Exactly the type of video I was looking for. This is the information I needed. Thank you for uploading your knowledge.
JuggusNawt well thank you for viewing and the nice comment. Note, I believe that Stowa and Laco have introduced some new options. I haven’t yet looked at those.
@@adventureswithtime I'm looking for a flieger watch myself and your video was super helpful. I use charts myself when assessing which watch to buy lol.
Flieger watches in their heyday were basically flight instruments, so they had to be large and visible. Today we mount them on naked wrists so I don't think we need them to be too large, only to fit and wear well. I would also go with the Stowa as it's not as thick as the Laco (IWC while the sentimental option is ridiculously overpriced for what you get and will never be an option for me).
True gentleman’s review. Subscribed
Loved it! Calm, professional and passionate! Not an easy to accomplish equilibrium for a watch reviewer and watch lover! Keep up the good work!
LuanO7 thank you for those kind words
I also love his style of delivery, love of craftsmanship time and taste.
This is the best video about German pilot watch, thanks a lot for your comparison, I would go with the same Stowa like your.
Thank you. I might do a refreshed version now that it's been some time. It will take some digging to see what's new across these watches.
Great video and very helpful as I recently concluded the same comparison. I opted for the Laco Paderborn B dial mostly because I preferred the case finish and I'm enjoying it immensely. That said, it was a very difficult decision but in truth I would have also been thrilled to have the Stowa. Who knows, perhaps some day a Stowa A dial would be a perfect compliment to my Laco B dial.
LoL. Then you can do the ole A/B testing.
By far the BEST video when picking out an authentic flieger watch.
Peter S wow. Thanks for the compliment. What type of watches do you collect?
it's objectively not though
Wonderfully informative video. You're a very easy man to listen to. Keep up the good work!
Brian Wilson thank you but my wife would differ :). Thanks for subscribing
Thanks Bob, great show!
I love my 42mm Laco Aachen b-uhr Gen 1.
It was a tough decision between Laco and Stowa. Both great watches.
Great video! Both Laco and Stowa make excellent flieger watches and both have a lot of heritage. I have a Stowa A dial and a Laco B dial and love both. I think the Laco is a more authentic looking replica (although it is much smaller) but the Stowa is very marginally more nicely finished. However both look superb, both are very high quality watches and both are good value as high quality watches go. Both of mine are hand wound as i think fliegers are best with a hand wind movement and a sterile dial is best. That said, for those on a budget the Laco basic flieger range are very good. You lose the sterile dial and some might not want a Miyota movement but for the price they're excellent if you don't want to spend the money on one of their fliger original models.
I really did like the Stowa. And agree that the Laco is more historically accurate. I just liked the finish on the Stowa more.
Laco is now doing a brushed version of their PRO series too.
This is my plan. Laco B dial. Just ordered my first Stowa Classic Flieger today and I could not be more excited
I looked through all available Fliegers and chose the Stowa for the same reasons you did: authenticity, history, and price. Good choice and great looking watch.
It is a fun watch to wear
I've wanted a Flieger since finding out about them here on YT. I finally got a 42 mm Laco Aachen about a month ago, used, but indistinguishable from new with all the original packaging. I wanted a mechanical watch in a Military style and history, and these are perfect. Now I would like to get a more upscale model like the Paderborn, with a higher end movement, but for now the deal on this was too good to pass up.
Sounds like you know what you like and go for it. Congratulations
Great video! Think I'll go with Stowa as well
What’s your reasons? Just curious.
Hi Bob, a very well and thought through video, I actually came to the same conclusions but went for the A dial.
But, over a longer period of time I let it go, i think I should have gone for a B type dial.
Thinking about getting again a Flieger, I wished Stowa would offer additional these watches in a bigger case.
I do leave a like and subscribed, greetings from Germany, Konstantin
Thank you for your comment. Stowa does offer bigger cases, but at a higher price and slightly different case design.
Adventures With Time, yes, I know these but don’t like these proportions, that’s better with Laco 👍🏻
Great breakdown i prefer the tan strap beautiful watch indeed
Nice to know the information between these watches and of course what swayed your decision for you at each point. I think after watching this video i think ill go with the laco as i just prefer the way the lugs connect the case with the strap gives it a more rounded shape watch. Thats just my preference and again fantastic video and hope you enjoy every time you look at it.
Mus Mustafa I’m sure you will enjoy your new acquisition. Thanks for watching and your comments. Let us know how you like the Laco
Tan looks Great!
That's what I used
@@adventureswithtime It is amazing how well tan goes with black and is a nice contrast with white. Black on black seems like it should be a winner,but,not quite. The Hamilton military with the black face has tan hands to simulate the aging effect. It looks better than white. The subtle contrast looks great. The German watch you picked out is a real gem with the onion crown. German aviation was remarkable as well. The history of the triangle is really neat. With iPhones , electronic car clocks and tablets the battery driven watch can be omitted. The mechanical hand wound watch is better now because the cell phone and tablet are readably available to keep accuracy. Complications are taken care of by the smartphone with a built in calendar that is synced to other devices. Winding a watch every morning keeps a unique connection between man and machine. The mechanical precision is remarkable. Sapphire lenses are unsurpassed. Love wearing shades of history on the wrist. More fun than a Rolex. It is cool to enjoy without being a show off. Like a sense of inner peace connecting with people and mechanical precision of the past. An uncluttered easy to read subtle piece of jewelry.
I like tan and brown
Laco is my choice❤
A lot of people feel that way
Good video and nice watch. I too was torn between Laco and Stowa. I went with the Laco Speyer and I love it. It is 39mm. Better for my small wrist.
Great to hear you picked up this watch. Enjoy
For me, I wanted a Flieger that most-closely resembled the originals, so a couple years ago, I selected the Laco (formerly Lacher & Co.) Friedrichshafen Bronze 45mm watch, complete with the split/riveted wristband. It’s not the same diameter as the originals, but it’s still a handsome watch, and the bronze case develops a unique patina of its own. I love mine.
Last month, I bought a limited-edition Laco Aachen Oliv 42mm watch (mine is #63 of 250). It included a standard wristband, but Laco also tossed in a smaller version of the the split/riveted wristband that mimics the Friedrichshafen Bronze’s wristband. I didn’t hesitate to install it. It looks terrific. I wish that I could share photos.
My Oliv 42mm watch is more wearable for daily use.
You sound like a person who knows what they want and goes after it. That is great.
Right yesterday I went in Engelsbrand in Pforzheim. I didn't know that Stowa is located there. I was right driving through the snowy street when I saw the Stowa factory.
Were they offering any tours. I would love to take a watch factory tour one of these days.
@@adventureswithtime
I don't know. It was Sunday. So they where close.
I think the tan looks best for now.
I agree with Rosemarie and think that tan is a good choice ! The original strap would have been in tan (wartime choice) and will develop with time - an interesting patina !
Sorry for not responding when you made this comment. I just now trying to clean up my very old comments.
Excellent video, i think the camel colored strap will weather and get a great patina, but the black will look great from day one, hard choice.
Thanks. I've since sold the watch as I've had to make room for others. I have a feeling that one day I'll be buying it back again.
Hi, Bob. I like your approach on selecting the Stowa, which I might add looks great. I’m new into watches and am considering a flieger for my collection later this year. This video will come in handy. Thank you.
Eye Heart Sushi glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching and good luck with your collection
Adventures With Time Thanks. I’m gonna check out some of your other videos.
Lovely review Bob. Thank you. As soon as I have paid for my new Sinn 104, which I just love, this will be my next purchase. I already had this on my short list, but one watch at a time. Am looking forward to your other reviews.
Thanks for watching. I also love my Sinn 104.
Nice review Bob. I’m leaning toward a b dial Stowa as well but the manual wind.
Sorry for not responding when you made this comment. I just now trying to clean up my very old comments.
Professional review, thank you mate, Laco and stowa both have their place but the stowa shows in video looks so beautiful.
And it's beautiful in person. Thanks for the kind words.
As a mech. ing. student the sheet part got me giggling. Nice and clean overview, do simiarly looking at watches, just in notes on my phone.
Went with a oliv Aachen 39mm for my thinner wrists. Became my daily watch right away and I absolutely love it.
I am planning on getting a Type A flieger as well.
I do enjoy the Stowa's look, but with my 10+ years long obsession with everything that is WWII aviation, I want the one with the more authentic look, and I am high on the OCD scale. So think I will have to spec. up a Laco Stuttgart (pro), so I can spec it with all my needs to my specification. Thanks for the overview.
I agree the Laco has the more authentic look. But I made some compromises with the Stowa.
I understand the dilemma on the straps; I prefer the camel, but the black actually matches the look of the watch better.
Jeremy Harris I have yet to try the black but next time on the wrist
I have two Lacos, love them. Stowa are no slouches either.
Both are good. Just depends upon the aesthetics you’re after
I like the camel strap a lot more. I think you made the right choice. The Laco is great but perhaps rather too true to the original. I also am not too keen on the sand blasted finish. I was, earlier this year, considering a Stowa, however WatchGecko released a Fliegler copy in both Type A and Type B. It has an ETA movement and is a lot cheaper than either of the German brands. Also it has a bit more practicality being water resistant down to 10ATM. Having seen your review, I am now slightly doubting my purchase. It is always great to have an original brand. However I content myself by reasoning that the watch could be made by anyone. The Luftwaffe wanted the design and found five companies to make it.
Dave thank you for your thoughts. It is exchanges of ideas/thoughts like this which I enjoy.
@@adventureswithtime You're welcome. Great review by the way. My thought process was similar, if not as structured, in arriving at Stowa. That is until WatchGecko threw the curve ball
I love this channel. I like the style too. Thank you Bob
santrade10 thank you for the kind words. Looking forward to adding more episodes in 2019 as well
Great 👍 VLOG Bob, I have several vintage Pilot watches in my collection, and have purchased new Laco & Stowa Watches, in my opinion the Stowa Watch beats Laco hands down in terms of quality & finish.
I've heard passionate arguments on both sides of the Stowa / Laco debate. I think they are both good brands and it's up to the buyer to decide what suits them best. Thanks for sharing. I love hearing from other collectors; what they do and why. I am learning so much doing this. And having fun.
Adventures With Time that’s what being part of the watch community is all about Bob.
Thanks for a very informative and well presented video review. I have been considering a Laco (but in a smaller dial) but now, after noting your presentation, I'll have to look at the Stowa too.
David O'Brien glad you found it helpful. Good luck. I’m sure whatever you decide you will enjoy it. Thanks for watching
It was a fair comparison. I believe the Laco is closer to the original design but I also prefer the Stowa.
Ditto here.
Great video. I am not sure why you didn't op for the hand wound 2804-2 which would have been more period correct than an automatic.
Sherry Carpenter I did make some compromises. One was to get an automatic; as I don’t think it alters the aesthetics. Thanks for watch and please consider subscribing as continue commenting. I just love all the input I get.
I appreciate the charts you do. Great choice on your Stowa.
Thank you. I'm thinking of an updated version of this analysis.
A++. Congrats to that very beautiful watch. Like you pronounced first Wempe was correct. They have a long naval tradition. Greetings from Germany
My pronunciation of many watch companies is off. I try to get them correct.
Thanks for the excellent, very helpful review! You did a lot of the work for me. Looks like when the time comes, I’ll probably buy the Laco Paderborn because I like the authenticity and the look of the sand blasted case.
Edit April 30, 2019 - I still haven’t bought this watch, but I’m getting ready to. I think my mind has changed since I posted the above and now I’m looking at the Stowa, the same one you picked for similar reasons.
Sorry for not responding when you made this comment. I just now trying to clean up my very old comments.
@@adventureswithtime no problem. I actually ended up buying an Archimede 42B a few years ago as I thought it was a better value than Laco or Stowa. I sold it recently, part of selling half of my collection, getting rid of the ones I liked but didn’t love.
A really thorough and informative video - and enjoyable
Thank you
And I think the Stowa is the right choice
Thank you. I’d appreciate it you tell your friends to watch.
Hi, If you check the prices on the official website of both manufacturers you can see the Stowa is more expensive, not much (70 EUR), but expensive. Stowa is 1050 EUR, Laco 980 EUR. But good comparison.
I've had a lot of comments on both side of the Stowa / Laco discussion. I think either are great watches and its up to the buyer to determine which they like best.
Sorry for the delayed response. I need to get into the practice of responding to viewers in a more timely manner. Viewers deserve that from me. Thank you
Great review and buying guide. I would also be leaning towards the Stowa, but I would totally go with the manual wound version so I can really enjoy that onion crown every day. Now both companies are using Selita movements as since your video, ETA has been harder for them to source as it is now owned by the Swatch Group (correct me if I’m wrong).
Yes, I heard the ETA will only sell to other Swatch companies. Not sure if that is true.
Nice review, information packed 13 mins. I assume you order the watch to be delivered in USA. If yes, how much of import duty or tax was charged for delivery. I plan to order online to be delivered to Seattle. Thanks
waqar akram as I remember this watch cost less than the threshold at which you need to pay duty. I could be wrong but that’s what I remember
@@adventureswithtime Thanks for your response. Will for sure check the duty threshold before placing an order.
Finally got my first flieger, a Laco. Fits very well on my wrist, thank you for the heads up. BTW, it's an Augsburg.
Great. Enjoy it.
Great review. Much better than some others... thank you.
TheViolentTeddy thank you for your kind words
great video and review! I love flieger watches as well and Stowa makes wonderful pieces; as I already have a flieger in my small collection, I'm thinking of getting a bauhaus style watch from Stowa, the Antea 1919
Tony Lugosi I do like the Bauhaus look. Very stylish
If you're looking for the "Bauhaus" look - you should consider NOMOS (German maker) with in-house movements and excellent value for money !
An other Bauhaus inspired watch is the Junghans watch designed by Max Bill who studied and taught at the Bauhaus.
Literally in the same boat. But I feel as though I am going to end up with the Laco. But that Stowa really is a beautiful watch, hope you are enjoying it.
Buy the watch that you like the best and enjoy it.
Bob, I am from the Netherlands and new to your channel. Great video! I completely agree with your choice for the Stowa flieger uhr. German watches are rising stars worldwide, I think. See you in the next one!
Thank you for watching and hopefully you've subscribed 😉. And keep providing me feedback. It's through these exchanges that I learn more about the hobby and what people like/dislike about my channel so I can improve my content.
Great Watch, the black strip suits your skin tone
Cool
Hey I dont often comment on UA-cam but i had to for this video I can tell you are really into this hobby and are passionate about it really good work this is the first video I watched from you and i already subscribed great work on thism
Thank you for the very nice comments. And thank you for subscribing. I hope to continue to serve the community well.
Nice review. The camel strap looks great!
Jeffery Neu I agree. In fact I have yet to wear it with the black strap. But I will in time. Thanks for watching.
Very nice video! Thank you for the interesting information.
karifoo and thank you for watching.
Great video. Congratulations on your new watch!
Thank you. I don't know if you saw my other video where I talked about selling my Stowa. Just needed to thin the herd.
Thank you very much. Your video here is very educational, informative and helpful. I would go with their Bauhause white face watch Antea Klassik 390.. But their website isn't telling if it has sapphire crystal and anti reflection. Still much cheaper in price then the Nomos of approximately same style kinda.
Sorry for not responding when you made this comment. I just now trying to clean up my very old comments.
@@adventureswithtime Thanks.
May have sold me. Have you considered the "A" variation from Hanhart? A very nice watch as well.
I didn’t look at them
Nice, thanks! I was looking for this exact review.
Ted Davis glad it helped.
Awesome video. I just baught the Stowa flieger classic bronze!
Congrats on the new watch.
@@adventureswithtime thanks buddy! Your videos convinced me. Hehe
@@vegardvang519 Don't get me wrong. I still believe the Stowa is a great watch. I just couldn't keep all of my watches since I retired. You will definitely enjoy this watch.
@@adventureswithtime did you sell it?
@@vegardvang519 yes it did
That is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you for the great video!
Glad I could be of help.
Hello. I have a question about how you ordered your Stowa. I went to their website and it was in Euros. Did you have any issues with ordering from the US, and did you have to pay any other fees or taxes? Do you recommend any dealers? I want to buy the flieger bronze classic. Thanks for your help!
I did purchase my watch from the Stowa website. No problems at all. I believe I did need to pay some duty on it.
@@adventureswithtime thanks
Really good comparaison ! Thanks
Thanks. I love these comparisons myself. They are also interesting and I tend to find out things I didn't realize before.
Sorry for the delayed response. I need to get into the practice of responding to viewers in a more timely manner. Viewers deserve that from me. Thank you
Fantastic Review of the varieties of our „Beobachtungsuhren“. Greetings from Germany.
Thank you. Do you collect watches?
Not really, but maybe I buy a Flieger from Laco or Stowa.
Hi. I am also interested in the Stowa flieger type B.
I really liked the type B dial.
Nice no-nonsense overview, decision process logical and empirical, would go for the same watch. Not to keen on the metal joints in the straps.
Thanks for the input. I know what you mean about those rivets in the strap (I think that is to what you are referring). But I take it as part of the tool aspect/feel of the watch. Certain there are lots of other straps I can use for this watch; maybe a nato.
Stowa prices have changed, the Laco in person looks better than the Stowa to me. But I'd be happy with either one. The laco Flieger pro is what I'm looking at right now
What is it about the Laco Flieger Pro that you like so much?
Good show Bob. I enjoyed your presentation so much I just bought a Stowa type B. Keep up the good work.
evolvedape thank you for those kind words and thanks for watching.
Black strap!! Thanks good info I got the Laco due to having a dealer close to me..
Laco is a very fine watch. Congrats
That was a good review and breakdown of both models. The Stowa is nice, but I still prefer the Laco. I do have a vintage, 55mm Laco, and their 42/45 mm are just a scaled down version of the originals. I like the flat lugs as it was the same on the originals. But both are excellent watches and enjoy wearing it!
Wow. can you wear a 55mm watch without it looking strange. I imagine wearing it outside of a flight suit it looks good. But on a bare wrist must look strange. But a great watch to have in one's collection. Can I ask where you purchased it?
The watch strap is a personal decision but I'd 100% go with black. What color did you finally choose to go with?
I have several colors to choose from in my stash of straps.
Excellent review. I appreciate your explanation on how you narrowed your choices to the 2 brands. I've been looking at Stowa as well for a classic Flieger. Question: Did you consider the 43mm? My wrist size is similar at 7.25".
If you mean the sport version which I think is 43mm, yes I did consider it. But it seems to have a slightly different bezel. So I stayed with this one. Good luck. Happy collecting
what do you think of the laco flieger pro stuttgart?
It is a nice looking watch. I haven't investigated it in detail. What do you think?
@adventureswithtime it's interesting. Customizable at a fair price IMO. But I never seen it personally
Good review! I love the B model from Stowa
Watches & BBQ agreed. I get lots of compliments on this watch.
Nice video, both are beautiful watches, I would personally opt for Laco, for the case finish and crown shape.
Lots of people prefer the Laco finish.
Good video. Your watch, the Flieger B was essentially a navigator's watch.
Riffswatch yes, that is what I read. Thanks for watching. Please consider subscribing if you haven’t yet done so.
excellent video, just want to know two things: if you pay European taxes? and how many weeks take the watch to arrive to you, thank you
I did not pay any taxes, just shipping from Germany. I believe it took about 2 weeks to arrive.
I chose the Laco because the modern ones look identical to the original 55mm Laco from the 30’s-40’s
Christian Noyes what size did you get? The 55mm?
Adventures With Time no I decided to get the 42mm handwinding Leipzig.
Christian Noyes Nice. Enjoy it.
Absolutely, you as well!
Great choice, but I got to say that with massive wrist like that I feel like you had the opportunity to really go all out with the style of this watch and go for maybe 46 mm or something. I am over here with 6 1/4 lol
46mm 😱I don't know if I'd feel comfortable with a watch that large.
For me, width is very important, some say it is a complication in itself. 3 mm is a huge difference. AND the Laco costs more money! It's a no-brainer for me.
Excellent video! Wish I had seen it earlier. I'm waiting on delivery of the Paderborn which I chose over the Stowa because the display back pushed the Stowa a bit too far from the original models.
Aside from that we are in complete agreement. Thanks for posting this. You've earned a new subscriber👍.
I'm sure you will be happy with the Paderborn. Both are great watches. Thanks for subscribing.
Agree. Moreover, automatic, as date or power reserve, is not very Flieger.
I went with the IWC Mark XVI, but it is far from being historically accurate. I love both Stowa and Laco. Stowa's customer service has a great reputation.
Trev Barlow I haven’t had to contact Stowa customer service, but it’s good to know they are responsive. Have fun with your IWC. So many watches so few wrists (and money). Thanks for watching
Great review! Question, Is there a ghost position when you pull the crown on your NO date model?
I can't remember. I sold my Stowa last year. Sorry.
You have helped me make my decision. Will be a B type.
I'm sure you will enjoy your new watch.
I figured you for a Stowa guy.
If I had the budget? Stowa flieger.
If B on a smaller budget ?
Lacos.
If I did not care about history but wanted an updated flieger, ETA 2824 MOVEMENT, BLUED HANDS, somewhat onion crown,
Awesome price?
Steinhart. Though they too offer higher pricecpoint versions.
There are a lot of brands (not the original makers of Fliegers) that might meet your interests. Just look around a bit.
Great vid mate. Very informative
Thank you for watching and hopefully you've subscribed 😉. And keep providing me feedback. It's through these exchanges that I learn more about the hobby and what people like/dislike about my channel so I can improve my content.
Good information. Subscribed !
Thanks for watching. Hope you enjoy my other videos.
Beautiful watch and video I'm waiting for a laco hand wound replica 45 . Your stowa looks nice with the tan strap
Sorry for not responding when you made this comment. I just now trying to clean up my very old comments.
Nice review, nice watch. I have something similar by Aristo.
There are a lot of brands that make watches in the original flieger style
I opted for a Laco Augsburg 39 with a Laco21 automatic movement second hacking for €340 delivered.
Nice
To have gone classic you could have bought the hand wind movement variant.
At that price point I would have gone hand wind.
I might have leaned to laco as they used bead blast appearance I'm keeping with WW2 matte look.
I did make some compromises in this selection
great video 100% agree with you
Thanks for watching.
Nice review... I was asking myself the same question! I see now Laco has a 39mm case also and for the price is more convenient. May be two years ago the situation was different. One curiosity, why didn't you go with the hand winding movement since it's more like the original?
Good question. At the time I was focused on automatic watches for the convenience. Also, I don't think the automatic changes the aesthetics of the watch much.
@@adventureswithtime well, the aestethic is the same but it's thinner and why not stay with the original! Unless you don't like to wind your watch, then it makes sense. Never mind anyway, just my thoughs... :)
Very enjoyable review Bob, I’ve subscribed.
Thank you for the feedback. I’m trying to get better at this and find some good content
Not surprised the Sinn 104 didn't scratch the itch for a Flieger. However, it does make for a handsome desk diver.
Picked up my Flieger a couple of weeks ago and am surprised with how much I enjoy what I had previously derided as Nazi memorabilia. It's these types of self discoveries that are such a bonus to this hobby.
We have been collecting for about the same length of time, so your topics overlap well with my state of the collection.
the beamer I like your term desk diver. I assume that refers to a diver watch that is worn by someone who doesn’t dive. Love it
I liked your watch but I found a budget one on Amazon. I wonder what you think of it at $80. Its listed as a Mil-TEc Vintage Aviator watch Black dial Flieger Luftwaffe Pilot Quartz Mens WW2 Wristwatch.
How does it look in person? I wanted something true to the historical watches.
I like both straps. I'd pick the one that went with my belt and shoes for the day.
I wore the brown most of the time
Hi Bob excellent review! I have a question, what kind of version Do you have? Because I see you winding your watch. In the page they have two options of movement, one that says automatic and oder one That says handwinding, But the back of your watch is like the automatic version, that´s why I´m confused. Hope yuo can help me.
Ray GV mine is automatic
Great watch, congrats. I own one myself.
Sorry for not responding when you made this comment. I just now trying to clean up my very old comments.
I think the original camel strap looks more interesting since the watch already has a black dial so the strap adds some spice. Or maybe it's just my personal thing for that leather colour spectrum. Anyway late congratulations on acqusition of a historical classic. Hopefully I'll get them too in the future
I was always told not to mix brown shoes with a black suit. But that doesn’t apply to watches
you remind me of De Niro :) on the video - laco is better as a tool watch, stowa is dressier. If I were you - with a 7 7/8 inch wrist I would have jumped on the larger laco. However, the stowa is fantastic, I'm looking forward to buying y own type A :) All the best!
Yordan Krekmanski Robert DeNiro?