"Bob Hobden" wrote
** anyone know if the modern computer printed equivalent lasts as long
equivalent lasts as long outside

The heat-set laminated labels are very good. In particular the Dymo
one with 3 layers, the clear layer over the top, is very resistent,
although the colours are not UV proof. They will fade in full sun,
but not as qickly as typed or inkjet printed labels.

I've used the Dymo 4000 labels on towed underwater equipment. Wrapped
round underwater equipment and covered with ordinary clear parcel tape
they easily survive being towed around for a year.