Landeron Caliber 189 – A Feature-Rich Chronograph with Tri-Compax Layout and Date

The Landeron Caliber 189 is a manual-winding mechanical chronograph movement from the extended Landeron 48 family, developed by Charles Hahn & Cie (Landeron) in the mid-20th century. Like its sibling calibers 148, 149, 185, and 187, the 189 features a tri-compax layout—but it also adds a date display, offering a rare combination of functionality in an affordable, cam-switched chronograph movement.

Built during a time when mechanical chronographs were becoming popular for both professional and everyday use, the Landeron 189 offered extended timing and practical daily utility in one compact package.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-winding mechanical chronograph

• Chronograph Mechanism: Cam-actuated system with horizontal clutch

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power Reserve: Approximately 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 (typically at 4:30 or 6 o’clock)

Movement Features

The Landeron 189 uses the well-proven cam-and-lever switching system characteristic of the Landeron 48 family. This approach to chronograph control allowed for high-volume production while maintaining a durable and serviceable mechanism.

While it lacks the tactile smoothness of a column-wheel movement, the 189 is easier to manufacture, simpler to maintain, and remarkably reliable in long-term use.

Pusher operation:

• Top pusher (2 o’clock): Start/Stop

• Bottom pusher (4 o’clock): Reset

The date complication, integrated seamlessly into the dial, gave the 189 an edge for wearers who valued both sporty and functional watches for daily use.

Brands That Used Landeron 189

The Cal. 189 powered many watches from mid-range Swiss manufacturers during the 1960s and 1970s. These brands catered to the growing market for functional, stylish chronographs at accessible prices. Notable users include:

• Croton

• Helbros

• Baylor

• Mortima

• Tradition (by Sears)

• Camy

• Various private-label brands

These watches were typically housed in 36–38 mm stainless steel or gold-plated cases, featuring bold dials with tachymeter or telemeter scales, luminous hands, and rotating bezels.

Reliability and Servicing

As part of the Landeron 48 lineage, the Caliber 189 is easy to service and shares many components with its simpler siblings. Spare parts are still available via vintage suppliers or donor movements. Its construction is straightforward for any watchmaker familiar with mid-century chronograph mechanisms.

The added date function introduces only modest complexity and does not significantly impact reliability or serviceability.

Collectibility

The Landeron 189 is a desirable choice for collectors seeking a vintage three-register chronograph with a date—a relatively rare combination in this price segment. It offers a robust mechanical experience and vintage charm without the premium often associated with Valjoux or Lemania movements.

Collectors value these watches for their versatility, functionality, and period-correct styling, especially when found with original dials and cases in good condition.

Conclusion

The Landeron Caliber 189 represents one of the most complete offerings in the Landeron 48 family. With its tri-compax layout, cam-actuated chronograph, and practical date display, it brought full functionality to vintage chronographs at a time when mechanical watches were essential everyday tools. Today, it stands out as a mechanically capable and collectible movement that continues to appeal to enthusiasts of classic Swiss chronographs.