Landeron Caliber 185 – A Full-Featured Vintage Chronograph with Date and 12-Hour Counter

The Landeron Caliber 185 is a manual-winding chronograph movement developed by Charles Hahn & Cie (Landeron) in the post-war period. As part of the extended Landeron 48 family, the Cal. 185 represents one of the more feature-rich versions, combining a tri-compax layout with an added date function—a rare combination in affordable mid-century chronographs.

It was designed for those who needed extended timing capability and calendar functionality in a durable, affordable mechanical package.

Technical Specifications

• Movement Type: Manual-winding mechanical chronograph

• Base: Landeron 48 series

• Chronograph Control: Cam-actuated, horizontal clutch

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power Reserve: Approx. 40–42 hours

• Diameter: Approx. 31 mm

• Height: Approx. 7.4 mm

• Functions:

  • Hours

  • Minutes

  • Small seconds (at 9 o’clock)

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

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

  • Central chronograph seconds

  • Date display (usually at 4:30 or 6 o’clock)

Features and Functionality

The Landeron 185 is essentially an enhanced version of the Landeron 148, with the addition of a date window. This made it a practical and comprehensive solution for users who needed a timekeeper capable of recording short and long durations while also offering calendar utility.

The cam-switching system, shared across the Landeron 48 series, simplifies the chronograph mechanism compared to column-wheel calibers. While not as refined in feel, this system is easier to manufacture and maintain, making the 185 reliable for everyday use.

Pusher operation:

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

• Bottom pusher (4 o’clock): Reset to zero

Watches That Used Landeron 185

The Landeron 185 was used by several mid-century Swiss brands offering chronographs with advanced features at competitive prices. These brands include:

• Croton

• Camy

• Tradition (Sears Roebuck label)

• Helbros

• Mortima

• Baylor

• Private-label and export-focused brands

These watches were often housed in larger steel cases (36–38 mm), styled with tachymeter scales and bold dials that catered to pilots, motorsport enthusiasts, and professionals.

Serviceability and Durability

Thanks to its shared architecture with other Landeron calibers, the 185 is relatively easy to service. Parts are still available through vintage watchmaker networks, and donor movements from the Landeron family can often be used.

Despite the increased complication, the 185 remains reliable and robust, provided it is well maintained. The added date feature does not significantly increase mechanical complexity, making the movement accessible to skilled watchmakers.

Collectibility

The Landeron 185 is especially appealing to collectors looking for three-register vintage chronographs with a date—a combination that is not overly common. While it does not have the prestige of Valjoux or Lemania movements, it represents excellent value for a well-rounded, mechanically rich watch.

Its historic role in bringing advanced features to accessible chronographs makes it a noteworthy piece for those collecting mid-century tool watches or vintage pilot chronographs.

Conclusion

The Landeron Caliber 185 is a full-featured chronograph movement that delivered multi-hour timing, precision, and calendar functionality to a broad market. With its rugged cam-operated design and smart layout, it exemplifies the innovative spirit of post-war Swiss watchmaking. For enthusiasts seeking vintage charm with added utility, the 185 remains a compelling and reliable choice.