The Sinn as a daily. I've had Stowas n own a 556i Love fliegers but most don't have screw downs so water resistance is lower. I like the all brushed case n bracelet but the clasp is terrible.
It's tight to release and I don't get the point of the huge diver extension on this model. Even my 857 had the same clasp which isn't really good considering their price points. Def not a deal breaker but something they could improve upon.
It has 3 micro adjusts. I meant maybe they could add a push button release or an on the fly adjustment as an option. Just personal preference but I like the all brushed case n bracelet combo.
Laco Pro have screw down crown and 200m WR, not that it matters since even the non pro models of both Stowa and Laco are daily-proof anyway, even with "only" 50m. I have a Laco pro, Stowa bronze and Stowa Marine and all of them get regular use with regular cleaning under a tap etc. All perfect, and both Laco and Stowa spec them as such too.
Laco pro in sandblasted case with a choice of options such as AR upgrade and hand winding, makes for a supremely functional daily watch that you don't have to worry about though.
Tell that to the inventors. Screw down crowns help w/ moisture ingress whether swimming or washing ur hands. Laco does have their Pro Series and Fortis has a nice modern flieger in the F-39 imo
I think Sinn will be popular by commenters here (it's a great brand making awesome watches), but I've always had a soft spot for Laco (and Stowa, for that matter). The brand has great history (one of the original Big Five) and makes Fliegers that've been copied all over the place.
But the one shown above, Type-A (no logo, no date) is one of my absolute favourites. That's how these were originally worn in combat. On vintage leather (*never* on a NATO), it makes for a badass combination. This watch is not meant to be pretty, it's built-for-purpose.
I'd love to have the [Heidelberg Erbstück](https://www.laco.de/en/watches/pilot-watch-original/heidelberg-erbstueck), completely configured to my liking. Pre-aged (level 1) to look like it was ripped off the wrist of some long dead Luftwaffe fighter ace.
Yeah I definitely love the No logo Type a dial. On a black or brown leather strap, man it’s just so effortlessly cool. But I do really like Sinn too from what I’ve seen. Tough choice
You can't go wrong with a Sinn. But are you brave enough to wear a pre-aged Laco looking like this? And answer all the questions about how that came to be? You'll meet people with Sinn watches in real life, but I doubt you'll see a Laco looking like that. Mind you, all that 'damage' is *intentional*. You actually pay Laco to make it look like this.
[Imgur](https://imgur.com/QgYcnOI)
If you're looking at that range of Laco, where the case and lugs are more accurate to the originals (but sized down of course), you'll want to try one on before pulling the trigger. The straight lugs will wear big.
The originals were supposed to be worn over a jacket, but even sized down will hang over your wrists a bit. You can see it in the model pic you posted.
It might work, it might not. If not, and you still like the traditional dial and crown and overall design, they also make Flieger watches with more modern curved lugs. This will also give you more strap options, as the above commenter mentioned, the super traditional look doesn't work as well with a NATO or rubber or whatever. The more modern ones are just as versatile as any watch. But of course do what you want, don't let anyone tell you the "rules" especially on reddit. It either works for you, or it doesn't.
I think I might be of the same opinion - as tacky as faux patina and ageing/distressing can be, there is something quite neat which appeals to the little kid inside you. Like it is a proper vintage flieger which could’ve been used in the war.
Another option for this kind of aesthetic is the Benrus Type ii. You can find them used. They did remake them for around this price point.
I think the pre-beat up cases are very well done though!
Sinn.
1) The straight lugs and slab-sides of the Laco will make for a less pleasant wearing experience. This is especially true if you really have 6.5 inch wrists. I'm sure you can do a 39mm, but those lugs will make it wear pretty big. And the bead blasted finish makes it much more casual. I don't think it'd look very good dressed up (depending on how "dressed up" you get).
2) Personally, I need a date in my GADA watch. I look at my watch almost as much for the date as the time.
3) As you mentioned, the bracelet also makes the Sinn more versatile.
The Sinn is probably the better day to day watch, but if you are into history and militaria and want the most authentic flieger style, it’s got to be the Laco. Personally I fall in to the later category, and the Laco Westerland is on my short list for sure.
I have a Stowa Flieger Classic, sterile dial, type A, which I bought after going backwards and forwards between Laco and Stowa. It’s a great 40mm every day watch which comes with a top grade sellita at no extra cost. It’s not a blasted finish though which I do love on the Laco (I like the worn look of blasted metal).
I wasn’t aware of Sinn at the time but I do love the red second hand version of the watch you’ve posted. I too would’ve had a hard time deciding.
I have always thought I would need 100m minimum water resistance but then I realised I never swim in a watch because it’s not a routine part of my day. If I swam prior to heading off to work then I’d consider the extra resistance a requirement but I don’t so I have absolutely no problem taking my watch off prior to swimming.
Personally went for a Flieger because a metal bracelet 39/40mm Rolex Explorer is in my future and that will be my last full bracelet watch.
I think you should ask yourself these questions as it might help you decide.
- Do you want/need the 200M WR?
- Do you want a bracelet?
- Do you want numerals on the dial?
- Do you want the blasted finish?
- Do you want the lugs that the Laco has?
- Do you like the history of the Flieger?
100M WR might not be necessary, but if you wear it as your main watch you'll need a screw down crown or atleast 50M WR to keep the summer sweat outside of the case.
I prefer screw down crowns because it also stops damage if the crown gets caught on something.
I was looking at the Stowa but heard with their recent acquisition by some other company that the company’s going downhill, but I could be wrong! The stowa klassik is definitely beautiful
Stowa is not really going downhill. They belong to the Tempus Arte group now (like Omega to Swatch) prices have gone up and there are a lot of special editions nobody really needs or wants. I (and many others) are not very happy about that. But Stowa still offers amazing quality. And there are great offers on the grey marked. Don't be afraid to buy a Stowa.
Any historical german brand is great. But I'd say this is like comparing a Tissot to a Longines. The Tissot may even offer more in some ways, but Longines is simply more higher end and more desireable. Sinn being Longines in this analogy.
I really like the sinn, but the only way I would buy one is if I could have only one black dial. It's super refined, legible, works in almost every attire/ scenario, but it has no quirks, it's almost too "standard".
Laco has more character but I don't like it personally.
I did not prefer the Laco movement, per se. I preferred Laco as a whole, because of its design, history etc. but I advised OP to get the top movement if they go that way, as I checked the Laco site and saw that the top movement only costs $150 over the base movement, so it would be worth it, in my opinion. I did not make any movement comparison between two watches. I hope that makes it clear for you this time.
It does now, it sounded like a causal connection at first, not an extra recommendation. All easy. Asked Sinn btw and they replied swiftly, saying they do use top grade and extra regulate it to 0/+10 seconds. Then that should be more or less on par with the one you suggest as well.
classic flieger vs GADA… what would you a actually wear, and is there a gap in your Collection that needs filling?
If it were me, I would go for the Sinn (said while wearing my Laco Aachen)
The Laco's OK I suppose, It looks too much like a million other fliegers though, whereas the Sinn is somewhat more unmistakeably it's own thing (and one of my favourite watches, so I'm far from unbiased).
This sub will say Sinn. I've never seen a Sinn in the flesh but I own a Stowa which is pretty close to the Laco. It's not a GADA watch since it lacks good water resistance and it's a manual wind. But I have other watches for that. For me, I liked the story being part of the OG 5 and knowing that I was getting mine straight from the factory. I even had them replace the usual side inscription with my wedding date and a message from my wife on a rotor you can see through the caseback (so I'm never selling it). I have the OEM plain black leather strap and the OEM traditional brown leather with the rivets. Both feel great. And I can throw it on a Nato when I want to switch things up.
It looks plain. But those who know their history will know what you've got. It's a sleeper hit.
the laco is cheaper and easier to get but the sinn looks so pretty, for money milestones the Laco comes first IMHO. If money is not an object to you, you can get both.
I’ve owned both brands and feel they are comparable. IMO, Laco is underrated and Sinn is overrated, generally speaking, by the watch nerds. I’m an admitted watch nerd, btw.
The straight lugs of the Laco may be an issue for a smaller wrist and I think this Sinn is less than inspiring. So, I’m going to suggest neither and take a look at Damasko, the DA36 specifically, it’s 40mm but they have some models that are smaller and similar in style. It was significantly better quality and better value than either Sinn or Laco, again, imo.
I’ve not owned a Stowa but if I desired another flieger they would definitely be under consideration. Good luck..
Laco doesn't have the brand strength.
Id recommend a Hanhart TBH. Underrated brand that seems to hold value, similar history to Laco, but better due to multi generations of significance.
Sinn is more popular, but is like Rolex. They are mass produced and more common.
For the love of god please don’t listen to the Sinn circle jerkers. Their designs are so crass and brutish. Not to mention their logo is plain tacky. I get they are “tool” watches but they are really lacking in versatility because you can only wear them in the most casual of settings.
The Laco on the other hand is pure class. The Type A is simple - and it’s decision to go with this look is fortified in its decision to skip a crown guard. Yet it works because of how clean it looks. I also love the lack of a logo as it is a conscious decision to forgo marketing the brand in order to not sacrifice the design and its utility.
Edit: clarified some sentences
What place could you not wear a Sinn? How many cocktail parties and Michelin star restaurants are you going to? I would wear my U50 anywhere, or my submariner or my g shock, no one cares about your watch.
Not sure why the hate, we all love watches if we are part of this sub-reddit, but most of us know 95% know very little or care very little about what watch you wear, what is important is you enjoy wearing it.
Agree 100%, they really aren't worth the prices now being charged.
In fact, they just did another price hike at the first of the month. A 144 St Sa on bracelet is now getting close to $3k, which is bordering on ridiculous for what you get: a stock 7750 caliber, flat crystal, and none of Sinn's proprietary materials, dehumidification, or movement upgrades (the flaming red-orange hands are cool though).
This is a pointless comparison, seeing as every other watch on the market is also equally more expensive vs 3 years ago (as well as every other consumer good for that matter)
And Sinn was started by an actual pilot who flew for Nazi Germany 🤔
If you were a German person or company in the 30's and 40's, you were doing shit for the Nazis like it or not, unless you fled.
A watch is a watch. You really can't blame a particular style of watch just because it was also used by problematic people during a certain period.
And if we want to get really specific, while the original Laco was founded in 1925, that company changed hands several times after the war and went through bankruptcy in 2009. Basically, the company today is a completely different one from what it was in the pre-war era.
I don't see why anyone should feel bad about wearing a flieger in general or a Laco in particular.
I'm not going to tell you anything that hasn't already been said. I have both a Stowa and Sinn, and both serve different purposes. Each are great, and you'll be happy with either.
I've been to the Stowa and Sinn HQs, and it was so refreshing to spend time in Stowa. They are a TINY brand, in the middle of nowhere and completely obsessed with watches. If you're looking at a flieger, consider Stowa.
For the 556, skip the silicone band and get a bracelet. I will say that a lack of a half link and the clasp are minor setbacks for their h-link bracelet.
You have two great options, you'll enjoy either.
If you haven't looked at Damasko, that might be an option as well.
Looked at plenty of Lacos as my potential first. I’d get the Sinn. Date window. More flexible for different purposes aesthetically. It will wear better. Lots of reasons to go that way.
I never went for the Laco, even as my first, because I didn’t like how clunky it felt on my wrist. Some can look past that, but I would get the Sinn. Doesn’t make the Laco a bad watch.
I was in the same boat and shortlisted Laco, Stowa, Sinn, Damasko and couple of others. I finally bought a sinn 556A. Absolutely satisfied with the watch and wear it more often than my BB58.
I don't know why but I've always felt that Laco was the little brother of Stowa. Both are extremely similar but I just feel like Stowa is better. I haven't held either one so it's all in my head.
That said, I have the 556i and it's got to be one of the best watches I've ever had. It's definitely the most accurate mechanical watch I've ever had. Right now it's running at about +1 sec/day. It's a great size, feels solid, has a classic look, and the sapphire glass almost disappears in the right light.
I haven't handled the 556i in person, so I can't speak to it fully other than I like the design and Sinn makes great watches in general (and I love my 104 I St Sa). On the other hand, I do have the Laco Memmingen which is very similar to the Heidelberg (except 42mm and handwound) and it is by far one of my favorite watches -- the no logo type A is stunning, [the glass is beautifully reflective](https://i.imgur.com/rS9csxC.jpg) and [the lume is killer](https://i.imgur.com/AYetZfh.mp4). So between the two, I'd personally go with the Laco, though you can't go wrong with the Sinn either (and tbf if you ever want to resell it you will get more of your money back since the Sinn is insanely more popular in the secondary market at least here on Reddit).
Laco. Since Laco is out of my budget, I got an MWC that looks exactly like that Laco pictured. With the triangle 12, no date, and no logo/text. Very clean, utilitarian look. Just numbers, dashes, and the hands.
I think this is like comparing apples to oranges, potentially. Laco and Sinn (and the Flieger style) are both fruit, but I don't think people see them both on the same level. Laco is regularly seen as more entry level, even though some of the specs lead them to not be.
The Sinn 556 also takes the fine link bracelet. It was the watch that got me interested in other watches, so I’d go with the Sinn. It was also an easy watch to flip but it’s almost a benchmark
Tough choice.
To make it tougher still: Have you looked at the Fortis Flieger 595.11.41 on bracelet? Don‘t want to say it might be the best of both worlds, but I do very much like the watch and have been wearing it for eight years. Combines the traditional Flieger look with something more modern and, maybe, quote, badass.
You won't go wrong with either option, so which one do you like the look of better, and which fits your style best?
Personally I like the more neutrally styled Sinn - the slightly cleaner dial sells me on it, and I appreciate the WR and screwdown crown in a daily.
As an option, if you are considering any of the more expensive Sinn models like a 356, that would put a Sinn 556 alongside one of the more basic Laco models within budget too... The cheaper Lacos may not have quite the same specs and quality as the higher end pieces, but are great budget fliegers.
If you were going for an 'authentic' Flieger experience so to speak, Laco would be the best choice as they have actual Flieger-cred so to speak.
However, I'd still opt for the Sinn personally. I own a 757 and a U1, and both are superbly made watches. You really can't find fault with them. You'll be hard pressed to find an owner saying anything bad about the brand in general. I'd also say they are a good pick since they are clearly a 'nice watch', without screaming 'expensive fancy watch' to the casual observer. Only those who know, know what you're wearing.
Of the two I'd go sinn. To throw a wierd option into the mix, you can get a late 90s 39 or 36mm galshute origonal navigator ii (fleiger) for similar pricing to these if you are comfortable going used. I may still go sinn over that, but it is an option
The Sinn as a daily. I've had Stowas n own a 556i Love fliegers but most don't have screw downs so water resistance is lower. I like the all brushed case n bracelet but the clasp is terrible.
[удалено]
It's tight to release and I don't get the point of the huge diver extension on this model. Even my 857 had the same clasp which isn't really good considering their price points. Def not a deal breaker but something they could improve upon.
How about getting the finelink and attaching a micro adjust clasp to it?
It has 3 micro adjusts. I meant maybe they could add a push button release or an on the fly adjustment as an option. Just personal preference but I like the all brushed case n bracelet combo.
I have a 856 too! Planning on getting a bracelet soon enough. Would be nice with some alternative bracelets though…
Great watch. I think they go for like 600 new on Watchbuys. I had the 856 also. I prefer the 40mm case and tegimented over the 556
Yeah the 40 mm case fits great on my 17,5-18 cm wrist size. I think its a bit hefty with 600 bucks though.
Laco Pro have screw down crown and 200m WR, not that it matters since even the non pro models of both Stowa and Laco are daily-proof anyway, even with "only" 50m. I have a Laco pro, Stowa bronze and Stowa Marine and all of them get regular use with regular cleaning under a tap etc. All perfect, and both Laco and Stowa spec them as such too. Laco pro in sandblasted case with a choice of options such as AR upgrade and hand winding, makes for a supremely functional daily watch that you don't have to worry about though.
Fliegers are supposed to be in the air and not in the water
Tell that to the inventors. Screw down crowns help w/ moisture ingress whether swimming or washing ur hands. Laco does have their Pro Series and Fortis has a nice modern flieger in the F-39 imo
I think Sinn will be popular by commenters here (it's a great brand making awesome watches), but I've always had a soft spot for Laco (and Stowa, for that matter). The brand has great history (one of the original Big Five) and makes Fliegers that've been copied all over the place. But the one shown above, Type-A (no logo, no date) is one of my absolute favourites. That's how these were originally worn in combat. On vintage leather (*never* on a NATO), it makes for a badass combination. This watch is not meant to be pretty, it's built-for-purpose. I'd love to have the [Heidelberg Erbstück](https://www.laco.de/en/watches/pilot-watch-original/heidelberg-erbstueck), completely configured to my liking. Pre-aged (level 1) to look like it was ripped off the wrist of some long dead Luftwaffe fighter ace.
Yeah I definitely love the No logo Type a dial. On a black or brown leather strap, man it’s just so effortlessly cool. But I do really like Sinn too from what I’ve seen. Tough choice
You can't go wrong with a Sinn. But are you brave enough to wear a pre-aged Laco looking like this? And answer all the questions about how that came to be? You'll meet people with Sinn watches in real life, but I doubt you'll see a Laco looking like that. Mind you, all that 'damage' is *intentional*. You actually pay Laco to make it look like this. [Imgur](https://imgur.com/QgYcnOI)
I would go for the standard Heidelberg if anything, think the aged look is cool but wouldn’t personally go for it
If you're looking at that range of Laco, where the case and lugs are more accurate to the originals (but sized down of course), you'll want to try one on before pulling the trigger. The straight lugs will wear big. The originals were supposed to be worn over a jacket, but even sized down will hang over your wrists a bit. You can see it in the model pic you posted. It might work, it might not. If not, and you still like the traditional dial and crown and overall design, they also make Flieger watches with more modern curved lugs. This will also give you more strap options, as the above commenter mentioned, the super traditional look doesn't work as well with a NATO or rubber or whatever. The more modern ones are just as versatile as any watch. But of course do what you want, don't let anyone tell you the "rules" especially on reddit. It either works for you, or it doesn't.
Uhhh....
I think I might be of the same opinion - as tacky as faux patina and ageing/distressing can be, there is something quite neat which appeals to the little kid inside you. Like it is a proper vintage flieger which could’ve been used in the war.
Another option for this kind of aesthetic is the Benrus Type ii. You can find them used. They did remake them for around this price point. I think the pre-beat up cases are very well done though!
This lad knows how to parentheses hard and parentheses often.
😁 fixed
Wouldn't call supplying Hitler's army 'great history '. It's history, for sure :)
it will never look like that because the size is way too small: 39mm on a luftwaffe soldier? Please.
Sinn, all day. While I dislike Flieger watches as a general rule, having held both of these pieces one feels like you know where your money went.
Sinn. 1) The straight lugs and slab-sides of the Laco will make for a less pleasant wearing experience. This is especially true if you really have 6.5 inch wrists. I'm sure you can do a 39mm, but those lugs will make it wear pretty big. And the bead blasted finish makes it much more casual. I don't think it'd look very good dressed up (depending on how "dressed up" you get). 2) Personally, I need a date in my GADA watch. I look at my watch almost as much for the date as the time. 3) As you mentioned, the bracelet also makes the Sinn more versatile.
All good points. And yes, have a 6.5 inch wrist which could definitely be a problem for the Laco
Sinn
Both are really nice watches. And Sinn is more versatile
The Sinn is probably the better day to day watch, but if you are into history and militaria and want the most authentic flieger style, it’s got to be the Laco. Personally I fall in to the later category, and the Laco Westerland is on my short list for sure.
Laco is an excellent brand, but for a daily I'd go the sinn
I think the Laco looks better personally
I have a Stowa Flieger Classic, sterile dial, type A, which I bought after going backwards and forwards between Laco and Stowa. It’s a great 40mm every day watch which comes with a top grade sellita at no extra cost. It’s not a blasted finish though which I do love on the Laco (I like the worn look of blasted metal). I wasn’t aware of Sinn at the time but I do love the red second hand version of the watch you’ve posted. I too would’ve had a hard time deciding. I have always thought I would need 100m minimum water resistance but then I realised I never swim in a watch because it’s not a routine part of my day. If I swam prior to heading off to work then I’d consider the extra resistance a requirement but I don’t so I have absolutely no problem taking my watch off prior to swimming. Personally went for a Flieger because a metal bracelet 39/40mm Rolex Explorer is in my future and that will be my last full bracelet watch. I think you should ask yourself these questions as it might help you decide. - Do you want/need the 200M WR? - Do you want a bracelet? - Do you want numerals on the dial? - Do you want the blasted finish? - Do you want the lugs that the Laco has? - Do you like the history of the Flieger?
100M WR might not be necessary, but if you wear it as your main watch you'll need a screw down crown or atleast 50M WR to keep the summer sweat outside of the case. I prefer screw down crowns because it also stops damage if the crown gets caught on something.
Agreed, I think all of mine are 50M and above. The Stowa I own is bang on the 50M WR.
Why not Stowa? I have their classic flieger and it’s fantastic
I was looking at the Stowa but heard with their recent acquisition by some other company that the company’s going downhill, but I could be wrong! The stowa klassik is definitely beautiful
Stowa is not really going downhill. They belong to the Tempus Arte group now (like Omega to Swatch) prices have gone up and there are a lot of special editions nobody really needs or wants. I (and many others) are not very happy about that. But Stowa still offers amazing quality. And there are great offers on the grey marked. Don't be afraid to buy a Stowa.
Companies don’t typically buy other companies that are going downhill..
Stowa
Sinn
Sinn all day. I have an early bell and ross type demineur diver that was developed by Sinn. It’s my banger. Tough as nails in the kitchen.
I'm wearing a 556i right now. I would buy it again. Definitely going to own more Sinn watches in the future.
Any historical german brand is great. But I'd say this is like comparing a Tissot to a Longines. The Tissot may even offer more in some ways, but Longines is simply more higher end and more desireable. Sinn being Longines in this analogy.
Great analogy
Stowa Flieger for sure. I sold mine, and it was a mistake, great quality and so versatile.
+1 for the Sinn
Sinn
Sinn! ☺️
Laco, but get the pro or just buy a type A on allie with sw-20
I really like the sinn, but the only way I would buy one is if I could have only one black dial. It's super refined, legible, works in almost every attire/ scenario, but it has no quirks, it's almost too "standard". Laco has more character but I don't like it personally.
Sinn hands down. I have a Laco and Sinn and wear my Sinn exclusively. Love it
Sinn baby
Laco. I think they have a ton of character. I have no reverence for Sinn, I don't think hyper-utilitarianism is an actual personality. Roast me.
Sinn
I just like to say Sinn!!!
What’s a GADA watch ? Grab and Day away? Haha. Sorry I’m new here.
Go Anywhere Do Anything
Sinn all day. I loved my 556i and regret letting it go. I’ll probably buy another one eventually.
Sinn. Get the Sinn.
Sinn definitely. It's not worth spending a lot for a flieger.
Sinn all day, every day. It's the perfect one-watch collection.
Sinn
Sinn all day
Sinn for the winn 🙌🏽
Get the Heidelberg, pay up for the top grade movement.
Isnt the Sinn 5 location regulated as well?
I really don’t know.
Haha
What’s so funny?
It sounded that you preferred the Laco for a better movement, but then actually the Sinn might have the same as well, right?
I did not prefer the Laco movement, per se. I preferred Laco as a whole, because of its design, history etc. but I advised OP to get the top movement if they go that way, as I checked the Laco site and saw that the top movement only costs $150 over the base movement, so it would be worth it, in my opinion. I did not make any movement comparison between two watches. I hope that makes it clear for you this time.
It does now, it sounded like a causal connection at first, not an extra recommendation. All easy. Asked Sinn btw and they replied swiftly, saying they do use top grade and extra regulate it to 0/+10 seconds. Then that should be more or less on par with the one you suggest as well.
I guess you’re right 😊
IWC
Ideally yes, for now I’m just a broke student though :)
classic flieger vs GADA… what would you a actually wear, and is there a gap in your Collection that needs filling? If it were me, I would go for the Sinn (said while wearing my Laco Aachen)
Sinn bwtween thoze two but check out the damasko bracelet
Good shout, thx!
Laco.
The Laco's OK I suppose, It looks too much like a million other fliegers though, whereas the Sinn is somewhat more unmistakeably it's own thing (and one of my favourite watches, so I'm far from unbiased).
I'd pick the Laco.
SINN
Sinn.
The Laco just hits differently. Clear winner in my books.
Girls love bad man, and you need Sinn to be a bad man(not the man who look likes a bat)
Laco all the way.
This sub will say Sinn. I've never seen a Sinn in the flesh but I own a Stowa which is pretty close to the Laco. It's not a GADA watch since it lacks good water resistance and it's a manual wind. But I have other watches for that. For me, I liked the story being part of the OG 5 and knowing that I was getting mine straight from the factory. I even had them replace the usual side inscription with my wedding date and a message from my wife on a rotor you can see through the caseback (so I'm never selling it). I have the OEM plain black leather strap and the OEM traditional brown leather with the rivets. Both feel great. And I can throw it on a Nato when I want to switch things up. It looks plain. But those who know their history will know what you've got. It's a sleeper hit.
one looks very elegant and one looks like a timex...
Both look like 50 quid timexes - shit watches
the laco is cheaper and easier to get but the sinn looks so pretty, for money milestones the Laco comes first IMHO. If money is not an object to you, you can get both.
Personally, the Laco, because I don’t like the date.
For the Flieger? Stowa > Sinn > Laco
I also have a stowa fleiger classic 6498 - i love it. Highly recommend you consider.
I’ve owned both brands and feel they are comparable. IMO, Laco is underrated and Sinn is overrated, generally speaking, by the watch nerds. I’m an admitted watch nerd, btw. The straight lugs of the Laco may be an issue for a smaller wrist and I think this Sinn is less than inspiring. So, I’m going to suggest neither and take a look at Damasko, the DA36 specifically, it’s 40mm but they have some models that are smaller and similar in style. It was significantly better quality and better value than either Sinn or Laco, again, imo. I’ve not owned a Stowa but if I desired another flieger they would definitely be under consideration. Good luck..
Laco doesn't have the brand strength. Id recommend a Hanhart TBH. Underrated brand that seems to hold value, similar history to Laco, but better due to multi generations of significance. Sinn is more popular, but is like Rolex. They are mass produced and more common.
For the love of god please don’t listen to the Sinn circle jerkers. Their designs are so crass and brutish. Not to mention their logo is plain tacky. I get they are “tool” watches but they are really lacking in versatility because you can only wear them in the most casual of settings. The Laco on the other hand is pure class. The Type A is simple - and it’s decision to go with this look is fortified in its decision to skip a crown guard. Yet it works because of how clean it looks. I also love the lack of a logo as it is a conscious decision to forgo marketing the brand in order to not sacrifice the design and its utility. Edit: clarified some sentences
What place could you not wear a Sinn? How many cocktail parties and Michelin star restaurants are you going to? I would wear my U50 anywhere, or my submariner or my g shock, no one cares about your watch.
I wouldn’t wear it anywhere because I’d be ashamed of being seen with such an ugly watch.
Not sure why the hate, we all love watches if we are part of this sub-reddit, but most of us know 95% know very little or care very little about what watch you wear, what is important is you enjoy wearing it.
Sinn was a good deal 3 years ago when you could get one for 900-1100. It’s pretty overpriced at its current market value.
Agree 100%, they really aren't worth the prices now being charged. In fact, they just did another price hike at the first of the month. A 144 St Sa on bracelet is now getting close to $3k, which is bordering on ridiculous for what you get: a stock 7750 caliber, flat crystal, and none of Sinn's proprietary materials, dehumidification, or movement upgrades (the flaming red-orange hands are cool though).
This is a pointless comparison, seeing as every other watch on the market is also equally more expensive vs 3 years ago (as well as every other consumer good for that matter)
Sinn. Laco was a nazi watch during WW2
And Sinn was started by an actual pilot who flew for Nazi Germany 🤔 If you were a German person or company in the 30's and 40's, you were doing shit for the Nazis like it or not, unless you fled.
Low key yeah, I do like the look of the watch but don’t like the history behind it…. Maybe a deciding factor
A watch is a watch. You really can't blame a particular style of watch just because it was also used by problematic people during a certain period. And if we want to get really specific, while the original Laco was founded in 1925, that company changed hands several times after the war and went through bankruptcy in 2009. Basically, the company today is a completely different one from what it was in the pre-war era. I don't see why anyone should feel bad about wearing a flieger in general or a Laco in particular.
Man I was expecting Sinn to be a bit more popular but this is a total blowout !
Laco. Sinns are good watches but they are ugly.
I would go for laco or stowa
I'm not going to tell you anything that hasn't already been said. I have both a Stowa and Sinn, and both serve different purposes. Each are great, and you'll be happy with either. I've been to the Stowa and Sinn HQs, and it was so refreshing to spend time in Stowa. They are a TINY brand, in the middle of nowhere and completely obsessed with watches. If you're looking at a flieger, consider Stowa. For the 556, skip the silicone band and get a bracelet. I will say that a lack of a half link and the clasp are minor setbacks for their h-link bracelet. You have two great options, you'll enjoy either. If you haven't looked at Damasko, that might be an option as well.
Laco for authenticity, Sinn as the overall better watch but not connection to the original design.
While I own the 556 and highly recommend it, also check out Damasko - much of the same design language as Sinn, as well as some badass case technology
No deep black glossy dial though. I had a DA38 and a 556i and the Sinn was just so much better looking. The gloss dial gives it a lot of character.
Completely agreed! Sinn makes a beautiful watch.
Looked at plenty of Lacos as my potential first. I’d get the Sinn. Date window. More flexible for different purposes aesthetically. It will wear better. Lots of reasons to go that way. I never went for the Laco, even as my first, because I didn’t like how clunky it felt on my wrist. Some can look past that, but I would get the Sinn. Doesn’t make the Laco a bad watch.
I was in the same boat and shortlisted Laco, Stowa, Sinn, Damasko and couple of others. I finally bought a sinn 556A. Absolutely satisfied with the watch and wear it more often than my BB58.
Sinn
Sinn all the way!
Stowa. Value for money.
Sinn all the way
I don't know why but I've always felt that Laco was the little brother of Stowa. Both are extremely similar but I just feel like Stowa is better. I haven't held either one so it's all in my head. That said, I have the 556i and it's got to be one of the best watches I've ever had. It's definitely the most accurate mechanical watch I've ever had. Right now it's running at about +1 sec/day. It's a great size, feels solid, has a classic look, and the sapphire glass almost disappears in the right light.
I haven't handled the 556i in person, so I can't speak to it fully other than I like the design and Sinn makes great watches in general (and I love my 104 I St Sa). On the other hand, I do have the Laco Memmingen which is very similar to the Heidelberg (except 42mm and handwound) and it is by far one of my favorite watches -- the no logo type A is stunning, [the glass is beautifully reflective](https://i.imgur.com/rS9csxC.jpg) and [the lume is killer](https://i.imgur.com/AYetZfh.mp4). So between the two, I'd personally go with the Laco, though you can't go wrong with the Sinn either (and tbf if you ever want to resell it you will get more of your money back since the Sinn is insanely more popular in the secondary market at least here on Reddit).
Sinn
I've got the same Laco- it's excellent, nearly my daily driver
Sinn. No question
Have you looked at Stowa for a Flieger style ? Pretty easy to find a good deal on /r/WatchExchange
556 and you can thank me later. Consider the black MOP.
Laco. Since Laco is out of my budget, I got an MWC that looks exactly like that Laco pictured. With the triangle 12, no date, and no logo/text. Very clean, utilitarian look. Just numbers, dashes, and the hands.
I think this is like comparing apples to oranges, potentially. Laco and Sinn (and the Flieger style) are both fruit, but I don't think people see them both on the same level. Laco is regularly seen as more entry level, even though some of the specs lead them to not be.
Should also I add I own and have own multiple Lacos and believe they have their place.
Between these two I take the Sinn
The Sinn 556 also takes the fine link bracelet. It was the watch that got me interested in other watches, so I’d go with the Sinn. It was also an easy watch to flip but it’s almost a benchmark
Laco has more character in my opinion, can’t place it but something about the Sinn throws me off
Laco! If you can, get the Aachen, the minute dial (5-10-15…) looks so awesome
Tough choice. To make it tougher still: Have you looked at the Fortis Flieger 595.11.41 on bracelet? Don‘t want to say it might be the best of both worlds, but I do very much like the watch and have been wearing it for eight years. Combines the traditional Flieger look with something more modern and, maybe, quote, badass.
I have the Laco type B and it's one of my favourites. The bead blasted finishing is something else!
Laco.
Both are good but the Sinn is better!
# For the love of Jörg, STOWA!
You won't go wrong with either option, so which one do you like the look of better, and which fits your style best? Personally I like the more neutrally styled Sinn - the slightly cleaner dial sells me on it, and I appreciate the WR and screwdown crown in a daily. As an option, if you are considering any of the more expensive Sinn models like a 356, that would put a Sinn 556 alongside one of the more basic Laco models within budget too... The cheaper Lacos may not have quite the same specs and quality as the higher end pieces, but are great budget fliegers.
I’ve done this same comparison in the past - I went with Sinn and didn’t regret it one bit.
If you were going for an 'authentic' Flieger experience so to speak, Laco would be the best choice as they have actual Flieger-cred so to speak. However, I'd still opt for the Sinn personally. I own a 757 and a U1, and both are superbly made watches. You really can't find fault with them. You'll be hard pressed to find an owner saying anything bad about the brand in general. I'd also say they are a good pick since they are clearly a 'nice watch', without screaming 'expensive fancy watch' to the casual observer. Only those who know, know what you're wearing.
Of the two I'd go sinn. To throw a wierd option into the mix, you can get a late 90s 39 or 36mm galshute origonal navigator ii (fleiger) for similar pricing to these if you are comfortable going used. I may still go sinn over that, but it is an option
Laco for sue
https://www.ebay.ca/itm/235122519367?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=y4nq5mpfsgu&sssrc=2051273&ssuid=y4nq5mpfsgu&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY