lanco led watches

[holly35]

Can anyone advise here? I have seen only a few lanco branded led watches, model 4001 and 4003 on Peter Wenzigs site.
Has anyone any info on the brand and their quality? I believe these two models have nat semi modules with two time zone modules.
What is the setting instructions for these modules?
Interestingly i think Lanco has some connection with omega? Can anyone add their history?

[ballaur]

I have the 4003 model, very nice design but the quality is nothing special, average led-watch with a standard bracelet... I don't think it´s Swiss made. It was also sold under other brand names, Benrus for instance.

[azimuth_pl]

the one I have found on Peters website indicates a 2007 Frontier module with additional buttons for alarm. these were fitted also to Helbros and Hamiltons and other brands. another similar module had chrono function.

Lanco is the short brand of Langendorf Watch Company founded in the XIX century. this was once a very reputable company but it went bust around 1973 during the Quartz Revolution and was acquired by the Swiss conglomerate (now Swatch Group). this giant company acquired dozens of defunct brands in the 70's and now shuffles the labels depending on the needs by targeting certain labels to certain markets however the guts are usually the same.
as with many LEDs and LCDs and Analog Quartz in the 70's the watches had pretty much nothing in common with the label printed on the case.
thus don't always judge the quality by the (once reputable) brand.
even today you can easily order your own watch with your logo if the quantity is large enough.

[holly35]

Thanks for the info.I picked up model 4002, still waiting on it . It does resemble the omega constellation1 ,and its size is ,i hope similar.
I think it has the two time zone nat semi module.
I also picked up two beautiful nos double boxed benrus models,these come complete with the instruction manuals and warranty booklets,hang tags etc.Both have the large dia hughes modules and are a nice size and weight. They have unusual square and oblong crystals which is a welcome change from the usual round faced models.The all stainless version has convenient battery hatches,while the gold tone has the snap on case back.
I dont usually go for the gold tone models but both watches are in flawless condition,and the gold tone version does screem 70s bling![IMG=http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/4680/009eu.th.jpg][/IMG]

Uploaded with ImageShack.us

[holly35]

Heres some more pics,

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[Led-Time]

I've got a gold Lanco watch its not in the best of condition the plating has rubbed through a bit on the top edge it's a nice looking watch though, the number on the back reads 104004 is the 4004 the model number. It's got a NSC duel time module inside with AM dot.

Here's a picture...

[holly35]

Nice watch! i think the last 4 digits indicate the model number,i seem to remember seeing this model also on peters site but its now gone.
Interesting these all seem to have the dual time zone module.
I will list better pics as soon as i can.They do seam scarce , i am lucky enough to pic up a new old stock,double boxed one with tags.

[bucko170]

I also picked up two beautiful nos double boxed benrus model

I have the same Benrus as yours but in silver tone.



The condition is not as nice as yours though!

[holly35]

Hello Bucko
These benrus models are nice! Received the gold tone model today,this one has the snap on case back,has yours?
As the batteries are real low i would like to remove them .I am always hesitant in doing this as i dont have any tools for the job, i did try to remove with a small knife and screwdriver but deceided against any further tries incase i mark the watch. help!

[bucko170]

These benrus models are nice! Received the gold tone model today,this one has the snap on case back,has yours?

It does and it's a tight bugger.

There was a tip on the forum for removing tight case backs (from Ed if I remember correctly) but I can't locate it.

I run a sharp blade (Stanley knife) all the way around the bottom to gradually work a gap in order to get a space for the case back opener to get into.

[holly35]

Do you run the blade point into the gap or the whole blade edge?
Do you use the blade fitted to the stanley knife handle or just a blade.? The back opener ,should it be just inserted and prized open?
Sorry for my ignorence in this matter!

[bucko170]

Do you run the blade point into the gap or the whole blade edge?
Do you use the blade fitted to the stanley knife handle or just a blade.? The back opener ,should it be just inserted and prized open?

I have found the relevant thread, here's Ed's advice

"You need a sharp knife(some like a single edge razor). Stick the edge of it straight into the line between the case back and the bezel. Do not bother prying(case knife are designed so a case back is never actually pried upward). Press it in again at another spot - keep moving around the clock...I mean case. Eventually it will pop off easily. Before you put it back on you can consider taking a file or wetstone and making a small opening on the edge of the case-back. If you're really considerate you will put it where the line that helps you line up the back properly is...or make a small mark to make it easier for the next person to find. "

I use the blade in the Stanley knife as it's safer.

[holly35]

Thanks for the help,i bottled out doing anything else with it,its off to a pro to remove.