Lathem 7-2CN Time Clock Ribbon vs Amano Two-Color Ribbon MJR8000/MJR8100

These are ribbons for two different clock families, so the choice is set by the machine you own, not by preference. The Lathem 7-2CN is a nylon ribbon with a reversing grommet that lets the clock reuse the same ribbon until print fades, and it covers a wide spread of Lathem 2000, 3000 and 4000 series clocks plus older 8000 units. The Amano ribbon is a cartridge built for MJR-8000 and MJR-8100 clocks, and owners rate both as dependable consumables that fit as stated. Neither is an upgrade over the other; buy the one your clock takes.

• Choose the Lathem 7-2CN if you run a Lathem 2000, 3000 or 4000 series mechanical clock, or an older 8000 series, and want the reversing-grommet ribbon Lathem designed for those print mechanisms.
• Choose the Amano ribbon if your clock is an Amano MJR-8000 or MJR-8100 and you want a drop-in cartridge that fits without trimming or threading.