Northern California Watch Collector Meetup
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Northern California Watch Collector Meetup

By Gary G · May 29, 2012 · 25 replies
Gary G
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
25 replies6718 views13 photos
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Gary G shares a photo report from a Northern California watch gathering, featuring an impressive array of timepieces, including several A. Lange & Söhne models and independent watchmaking marvels. This post offers a glimpse into the diverse tastes and camaraderie among collectors in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Greetings to all!  Sorry to be a bit slow on this post, but I did want to share some pleasant memories from last week's great visit by KIH to the San Francisco area.

I'll offer the standard apologies/excuses for poor restaurant lighting, lack of photographic talent, etc., that led to missing or unusable shots of several of the mouth-watering timepieces, but hope you enjoy what I was able to capture!

 First, our two moderators -- the guest of honor:


...and the gracious host.  He really did have a good time, honest!



Let's start off with Ken's well-known (and gorgeous) L1 Tokyo LE.  I had never seen one of these before, and I can tell you that it was absolutely gorgeous


Ken checks out a couple of PT Zeitwerks -- if I recall properly, he gave the "regular" PT the nod over the Luminous by a thin margin...


A closer look at the PT Zeitwerk:


As usual, my pal Tahoeblue acted as my official wrist model -- here we again see that great L1


Followed by another Lange, the Mighty Double Split (now on the dark brown Santoni strap)


...and to complete the Lange theme, the 1815 Moonphase in Honey Gold.  Even with plastic covering it, this one was really striking -- I'm a fan of the Honey Gold, and this piece really pops in person


Just to show that his wrist doesn't discriminate against the Swiss, here's a lovely (if blurry -- sorry) Nautilus


There were four Simplicities in attendance, but the one shown below is a recent acquisition and there's a story behind it.  The watch itself is a 37mm PT version, but the case is brushed rather than polished -- I'm aware of only one other brushed watch, and the look is very interesting.  The story behind the watch: the happy new owner was on Mr. Dufour's waiting list, and was granted the opportunity to buy this one when a reserved customer cancelled!  Just goes to show you that it never hurts to ask -- I would have told you that the chances of clearing the Dufour waiting list were zero, but this watch is evidence that it ain't so


Last but not least, a very pretty GO split seconds chrono.  There were four splitters in attendance: this watch, the Double Split, an IWC ceramic Doppel, and the Habring Doppel.  I like this one a lot -- particularly the presence of a big date.  Also, the way in which the rattrapante rejoins the main chono seconds time is a treat to see -- the rattrapante hand starts quickly, then eases into place as if controlled by a hydraulic cylinder.  Very cool!


Hope this gives you a bit of a sense for some of the goings-on.  As usual, lots of lively conversation and watch swapping,not to mention excellent food and wine at the restaurant arranged by Patrick.  Thanks, Patrick, and many thanks to Ken for visiting with us!

All the best,

Gary

About the A. Lange and Söhne Emil Lange Ref. 1815

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 reference 206.032, introduced in 1999, is a notable example of the brand's commitment to traditional watchmaking principles. This model is part of the 1815 collection, which pays homage to the birth year of Ferdinand Adolph Lange and emphasizes classic design elements such as Arabic numerals and blued hands, drawing inspiration from historical Lange pocket watches. It represents a more understated and purist aesthetic compared to some of the brand's more complex offerings, focusing on fundamental horological excellence.

This particular reference features an 18k rose gold case measuring 36mm in diameter and 7.5mm in thickness. It houses the manually wound L941.1 caliber, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal on the front, protecting a solid silver dial. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear but not for immersion.

The 1815 206.032 appeals to collectors who appreciate classical proportions and a focus on fundamental watchmaking without excessive complications. Its smaller case size reflects a more traditional approach to men's wristwatches, making it a desirable piece for those seeking a discreet yet highly refined timepiece. The combination of rose gold and a silver dial offers a warm and legible presentation, consistent with the collection's historical inspirations.

Specifications

Caliber
L941.1
Case
18k rose gold
Diameter
36mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
May 29, 2012

now it's all down to who have better pieces NoCal or SoCal gang Thank you so much for sharing and for fulfilling one of my long time questions. How KIH looks like Best D

GA
Gary G
May 29, 2012

...brought some heavy hitters to the event! Not sure I want to get into a competition with them, as they have depth on both modern pieces and vintage, brands and independents. Wish I could have been there -- but our dinner was fun, too! Thanks for your note. Best, Gary G

AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
May 29, 2012

to be on both dinners Best Damjan

PA
patrickmaniac
May 29, 2012

Look like you guys had a ball of a time. cheers PAt

GA
Gary G
May 29, 2012

...highlighting the big differences in design philosophy and execution between the Habring and the Lange: Best, Gary G

KI
KIH
May 29, 2012

Thanks again for your coming to dinner with me. It was a blast to meet you all in person. Under the very dark light condition, your photos are superb, as usual. Thank you very much again! Ken

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