Technical Archive

Laco
Pilot Watches 861759.2— lug 20mm

Laco Pilot Watches 861759.2: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Pilot Watch Basic Altenburg Stainless Steel / Black

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Laco 861759.2
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

Browse 20mm straps →
Reference

861759.2

Movement

ETA caliber 6497-1 Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds

The Heritage

The Laco Pilot Watch 861759.2 is a 42mm stainless steel flieger watch with satin finish, powered by the ETA caliber 6497-1 manual-wind movement. It features a pure white dial with Arabic numerals and knife hands for maximum legibility, following the austere design principles of the original Luftwaffe navigation chronometers from World War II. The 20mm lug width is proportioned to balance the 42mm case diameter.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Laco Pilot Watches 861759.2?

The Laco Pilot Watches 861759.2 features a 20mm lug width. This measurement—the distance between the inner shoulders of the lugs—is the critical parameter for selecting a compatible strap. Always verify this dimension with a digital caliper before ordering a new strap, as incorrectly sized straps will not fit properly or may cause excessive play.

What is the best strap for the Laco Pilot Watches 861759.2?

There is no universal best choice; the decision depends on intended use. For formal or dress-up occasions: alligator in cognac or black tones, which develops a noble patina over time. For daily wear and visible ageing: vegetable-tanned calf, which changes colour naturally. For sports or aquatic situations: Cordura canvas or vulcanised FKM rubber. The Laco Pilot Watches accommodates all these solutions whilst maintaining its identity.

How do I change the strap on the Laco Pilot Watches 861759.2?

Strap replacement is a straightforward operation. Locate the spring bars that attach the strap to the case. Using a dedicated removal tool or a sterile needle, push the spring bar upward to access the stop groove. Once freed, extract the old strap. Insert the new strap by aligning the holes with the lug shoulders, then push the spring bar downward until it clicks into place. If the spring bar is stuck or the procedure is not smooth, consult a qualified watchmaker.

Is an aftermarket 20mm strap compatible with this model?

Yes, any strap with a 20mm lug width is compatible with the Laco Pilot Watches 861759.2, regardless of brand. Compatibility is guaranteed by the lug width parameter alone. However, we recommend selecting straps of construction quality equal to the movement—vegetable-tanned leather, vulcanised rubber, or certified canvas—to avoid compromising the technical integrity of the watch.

How long does a leather strap last on this model?

Longevity depends on material and frequency of wear. An alligator or vegetable-tanned calf strap resists 3–5 years of daily wear before requiring replacement, developing a visibly aged patina during this period that enriches the aesthetic. Synthetically-dyed leather or low-quality materials degrade more rapidly, within 12–24 months. Vulcanised rubber and Cordura canvas NATO straps easily achieve 7–10 years of useful life. Storing the strap away from direct sunlight and prolonged humidity extends longevity.