Landeron Caliber 220 – A Compact Chronograph Movement for Practical Mid-Century Watches

The Landeron Caliber 220 is a manual-winding mechanical chronograph movement developed by Charles Hahn & Cie (Landeron) during the 1950s–1960s as part of its extended series of cam-operated chronographs. A derivative of the famous Landeron 48 family, the 220 offers a bi-compax (two-register) layout with essential chronograph functions, designed for reliability and affordability in everyday wristwatches.

While not as complex as three-register or calendar chronographs, the Landeron 220 provided precise short-time measurement in a slimmer, more compact format, well-suited for smaller case sizes popular in the post-war era.

Technical Specifications

• Movement Type: Manual-wind mechanical chronograph

• Chronograph Mechanism: Cam-actuated with horizontal clutch

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power Reserve: Approx. 40 hours

• Diameter: Approx. 28.25 mm

• Height: Approx. 5.3 mm

• Functions:

  • Hours

  • Minutes

  • Small seconds (typically at 9 o’clock)

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

  • Central chronograph seconds

Movement Characteristics

The Landeron 220 is essentially a downsized, streamlined chronograph movement, meant to power smaller and more elegant watches. It uses the same cam-switching system that Landeron pioneered to simplify the chronograph's internal mechanics—eliminating the need for a column wheel while still offering solid reliability and consistent performance.

Its bi-compax layout is clean and highly legible, with the chronograph seconds tracked via the center hand and elapsed minutes shown on the 3 o’clock subdial. The running seconds occupy the 9 o’clock position.

Chronograph pusher functions:

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

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

Watches Featuring the Landeron 220

The Caliber 220 was popular among a range of affordable Swiss brands that targeted both the domestic and export markets. These brands included:

• Camy

• Croton

• Helbros

• Orator

• Tradition (Sears Roebuck)

• Mortima

• Various unsigned or private-label chronographs

Watches using this caliber were typically 33–35 mm in case diameter, often with minimalist styling, slim profiles, and domed acrylic crystals. Many featured tachymeter or telemeter scales, adding sporty flair to otherwise dress-oriented timepieces.

Service and Longevity

As a part of the Landeron family, the 220 is simple to service, durable, and parts can sometimes be swapped with components from other Landeron 48-series calibers. Its cam-actuated design makes it less prone to misalignment and easier to maintain compared to more complex column-wheel mechanisms.

When cleaned and lubricated properly, the Landeron 220 can continue to perform reliably even after decades.

Collectibility

Though not as prestigious or complicated as the larger Landeron 148 or Valjoux 72, the Landeron 220 has a strong following among collectors who appreciate vintage mechanical simplicity and mid-century design. Its smaller size and clean layout make it ideal for those seeking understated, functional chronographs from the 1950s and 60s.

Well-preserved examples are becoming harder to find, especially those with original dials and unpolished cases.

Conclusion

The Landeron Caliber 220 is a compact, efficient, and highly wearable chronograph movement, perfect for vintage enthusiasts who appreciate clean design and mechanical reliability. As a product of Landeron’s innovative approach to cam-switching technology, it helped bring the chronograph complication into more accessible wristwatches—and remains a charming piece of Swiss horological history.