Landeron Caliber 248 – A Refined Evolution of the Legendary Landeron 48

The Landeron Caliber 248 is a manual-winding chronograph movement developed by Charles Hahn & Cie (Landeron). Introduced as an improvement over the highly successful Landeron 48, the 248 offered enhanced performance, better finishing, and slight mechanical refinements, while retaining the same robust cam-actuated chronograph design.

Produced during the 1960s and early 1970s, the 248 served as one of the final expressions of Landeron’s commitment to producing affordable yet functional chronographs, just before the quartz crisis reshaped the industry.

Technical Specifications

• Movement Type: Manual-wind mechanical chronograph

• Chronograph Control: Cam-actuated system with 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 running seconds (at 9 o’clock)

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

  • Central chronograph seconds

Movement Features

The Landeron 248 retains the bi-compax layout and two-pusher chronograph system that made the Landeron 48 a success, but incorporates mechanical refinements to improve durability and performance. Internally, tolerances and finishing were slightly improved, and the movement’s feel was more precise, though still not on par with column-wheel chronographs.

Pusher configuration remains standard for Landeron chronographs:

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

• Bottom pusher (4 o’clock): Reset

While subtle, the refinements made in the 248 helped it stand out from earlier Landeron variants, making it more suitable for use in higher-quality mid-range chronographs.

Watches That Used Landeron 248

The Landeron 248 powered numerous Swiss watches during the 1960s and 1970s. Brands favored the movement for its blend of affordability and improved performance. Watchmakers that used this caliber include:

• Croton

• Baylor

• Helbros

• Camy

• Orator

• Tradition (Sears Roebuck label)

• Mortima

• Many private-label and export-focused brands

These watches were commonly styled with bold dials, tachymeter or telemeter scales, and 36–38 mm cases, often with sporty or racing-inspired design cues.

Serviceability and Reliability

Like its predecessors, the Caliber 248 is easy to service, thanks to its cam-switching mechanism and widely shared components with the Landeron 48 family. Spare parts remain available through vintage suppliers, and many watchmakers familiar with 20th-century Swiss calibers can service it reliably.

It is considered rugged and functional, ideal for everyday use if properly maintained.

Collectibility

While not as prestigious as column-wheel movements like the Valjoux 72 or Lemania 2310, the Landeron 248 is increasingly appreciated for its vintage charm, historical value, and mechanical reliability. It offers collectors a great entry point into mechanical chronographs without the premium prices of more exotic calibers.

Watches equipped with Cal. 248 are often attractive, well-balanced, and wearable, making them desirable to those seeking vintage style with mechanical substance.

Conclusion

The Landeron Caliber 248 represents the mature evolution of the Landeron 48 platform, offering improved reliability and refined performance. As one of the last great manual cam-operated chronographs before the quartz era, it remains a strong, collectible movement that defined accessible Swiss chronographs during the golden age of mechanical watchmaking.