Landeron Caliber 187 – A Tri-Compax Chronograph with Practical Design

The Landeron Caliber 187 is a manual-winding mechanical chronograph developed by Charles Hahn & Cie (Landeron), introduced in the mid-20th century as part of the extended Landeron 48 movement family. Closely related to calibers 148, 149, and 185, the Landeron 187 stands out for its three-register (tri-compax) layout, optimized for tracking elapsed seconds, minutes, and hours.

It was designed to serve as a reliable, versatile chronograph for both professional and civilian markets. The 187 kept the same cam-actuated chronograph system Landeron pioneered, focusing on mass production, low cost, and mechanical robustness.

Technical Specifications

• Movement Type: Manual-winding mechanical chronograph

• Family: Landeron 48 series

• Chronograph Mechanism: 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. 6.9 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

Movement Characteristics

The Landeron 187 continues the brand’s signature use of a cam and lever chronograph control system. This system made Landeron movements easier and more affordable to manufacture than traditional column-wheel designs. While it doesn’t offer the same luxurious pusher feel as column wheels, it provided reliable function with lower servicing demands.

The tri-compax layout of the 187 allows timing for both short and long intervals, making it ideal for use in motorsports, aviation, and other professional fields where extended timing was required.

Chronograph pusher functions:

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

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

Brands That Used Landeron 187

The Landeron 187 was used by a number of mid-tier Swiss brands during the 1950s, 1960s, and early 1970s. Its balance of functionality and affordability made it a popular choice in professional-looking chronographs. Commonly seen brands include:

• Croton

• Baylor

• Helbros

• Mortima

• Tradition (by Sears)

• Camy

• Private-label or department store brands

Watches with Cal. 187 were often housed in larger 36–38 mm cases, with sporty dial designs featuring tachymeter, telemeter, or pulsometer scales.

Servicing and Durability

The Landeron 187, like its relatives in the 48 family, is known for being durable and serviceable. Components are mostly interchangeable with other Landeron calibers like the 148 and 149, which simplifies sourcing spare parts. Many vintage watchmakers are familiar with the movement’s structure and can perform maintenance and repairs.

When properly serviced, the Cal. 187 remains a reliable and accurate mechanical chronograph, even after decades of use.

Collectibility

While not as celebrated as high-end column-wheel chronograph movements, the Landeron 187 is still appreciated by collectors for its full chronograph capability in an accessible package. Vintage watches housing this movement offer a mechanically rich experience and a classic 1960s aesthetic—at a fraction of the cost of Valjoux or Lemania-powered alternatives.

Conclusion

The Landeron Caliber 187 is a versatile and dependable vintage chronograph movement, offering three-register functionality and robust cam-switching performance. Its legacy lies in making complex chronograph features available to a wider market, helping to popularize mechanical sports watches during the mid-20th century. Today, it remains a solid choice for collectors seeking functionality, reliability, and vintage charm.