Strap for Pilot Watch Basic London Stainless Steel / Black

The lug width of the Laco Pilot Watches 861800 is 18mm. This dimension is determined by the internal distance between the two lugs of the case. To verify it, position a calliper from the inner edge of one lug to the inner edge of the other: the result will be 18mm. It is crucial not to confuse the external measurement (which would include the lug thickness) with the internal one.

The Laco 861800, being a watch with minimalist pilot architecture, pairs best with alligator straps with vegetable tanning, aged calf leather in brown or black tones, or NATO straps in cotton-nylon. The choice depends on usage: alligator for formal occasions, calf for daily elegance with natural patina, NATO for sports practicality. We advise against glossy finishes or prominent metals that would clash with the dial's sobriety.

To replace the strap, you must remove the spring bars connecting the strap to the case. Use a spring bar tool or small flat instrument to gently compress the internal spring of the bar, then extract the strap. Align the new strap with the attachment holes and reinsert the spring bars until you hear a click. If unsure, consult a professional watchmaker: while straightforward, the procedure carries a minor risk of case scratching.

Yes, the Laco 861800 is fully compatible with 18mm aftermarket straps. Lug width is a standard measurement, so any artisanal or industrial 18mm strap will fit perfectly onto the case lugs. Milanostraps offers a specialised collection of 18mm straps in various materials and finishes, from natural leather to NATO, ready to ship or customisable.

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on usage intensity, climate, and tanning quality. An artisanal vegetable-tanned leather strap of good quality, used daily in temperate climate, typically lasts 2–4 years before replacement is needed. Frequent exposure to perspiration, water, and UV rays accelerates ageing. A NATO strap, by comparison, has significantly longer durability (5+ years). The patina that develops on natural vegetable-tanned leather is a sign of use, not deterioration.