Landeron Caliber 148 – A 3-Register Evolution of the Classic Chronograph

The Landeron Caliber 148 is a manual-winding chronograph movement developed by Charles Hahn & Cie (Landeron) in the mid-20th century. It belongs to the extended family of the Landeron 48, one of the most widely used Swiss chronograph movements of the era. However, the 148 stands out from its predecessors by offering a tri-compax layout with an added 12-hour chronograph counter, bringing increased functionality to more complex timepieces.

Designed to meet the growing demand for precision timing and extended chronograph tracking, Caliber 148 balanced affordability with practicality, making it a popular choice for many brands during the 1950s and 1960s.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind mechanical chronograph

• Base Movement: Landeron 48

• Chronograph Mechanism: Cam-actuated, horizontal clutch

• Jewels: 17

• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz)

• Power Reserve: Around 40–42 hours

• Diameter: Approx. 31 mm

• Height: Approx. 6.9 mm

• Functions:

  • Hours

  • Minutes

  • Small running seconds (at 9 o’clock)

  • 30-minute chronograph counter (at 3 o’clock)

  • 12-hour chronograph counter (at 6 o’clock)

  • Central chronograph seconds

Movement Features

Unlike the simpler Landeron 48, which uses a two-subdial (bi-compax) layout, the Landeron 148 introduces a third register, allowing wearers to track elapsed time over a full 12-hour period. This was particularly useful for aviation, endurance racing, and long-duration sporting events.

The cam-switching system, instead of a column wheel, provides reliable chronograph operation with fewer moving parts. Although the pusher feel is stiffer and less refined, it is more economical and easier to maintain. The pusher logic remains consistent with other Landeron chronographs:

• Top pusher (2 o’clock): Start and stop

• Bottom pusher (4 o’clock): Reset

Use in Watchmaking

The Landeron 148 was embraced by numerous watch manufacturers during the 1950s and 1960s, especially those offering multifunction chronographs at competitive prices. Brands that utilized the 148 include:

• Croton

• Baylor

• Camaro

• Tradition (Sears Roebuck)

• Mortima

• Helbros

• Various private-label Swiss brands

Watches equipped with the 148 often featured larger cases (36–38 mm), sporty styling, and dials with tachymeter or telemeter scales, reflecting the growing popularity of chronographs in motorsport and aviation.

Servicing and Collectibility

Thanks to its roots in the highly popular Landeron 48 series, the Caliber 148 is relatively easy to service. Spare parts can still be found, and experienced watchmakers familiar with cam-operated chronographs will have no trouble maintaining it.

Collectors value Landeron 148-powered watches for their three-register layout, which offers increased utility and visual appeal over simpler chronographs. While not as prestigious as column-wheel calibers like the Valjoux 72, the 148 remains a strong, budget-friendly option in the vintage chronograph world.

Conclusion

The Landeron Caliber 148 is a practical and versatile chronograph movement that brought 12-hour timing capability to a broad market. Its cam-actuated design made it more accessible, while the three-register layout allowed for greater functionality. As a result, it played a key role in democratizing advanced chronograph features during a golden era of Swiss watchmaking. Today, it remains a collectible and dependable choice for vintage chronograph enthusiasts.