Independents
Sham1 presents a compelling collector's dilemma, weighing the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph against the Grönefeld 1941 Remontoire. This post delves into the aesthetic and technical merits of each, inviting the community to consider the nuances of high-end independent watchmaking versus established maisons, particularly for those with smaller wrists.
) I love the Gronefeld and have my sights on a steel model, one of the twenty five to be made. The dial is relatively simple compared to the 1815 chronograph but there is nothing wrong with that. Maybe it is the movement of the Gronefeld that makes me gasp every time I see one or perhaps, I just prefer the lightness of stainless steel compared to the weight of the Lange. Both watches are eerily the same diameter at 39.5mm and the Gronefeld has the slimmer profile. The lugs are quite special in my opinion and although one can order a bespoke dial on one's Remontoire, I would be quite happy with the silver dial. Maybe it is the fact that I have met Tim and Bart Gronefeld on a number of occasions and I actually feel that the privilege would be mine to own one of their watches one day.
The Grönefeld 1941 Remontoire represents a significant offering from the independent Dutch watchmakers, Bart and Tim Grönefeld, showcasing their technical prowess and commitment to traditional horology. It was introduced as a flagship model, emphasizing precision and a distinctive aesthetic that blends classic watchmaking with contemporary design elements. The timepiece quickly garnered critical acclaim, notably winning the Men's Watch category at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) in 2016, solidifying its position within the high-end independent watchmaking landscape.
Central to the 1941 Remontoire is its constant force mechanism, a remontoire d'égalité, visible at 9 o'clock on the dial. This system ensures a consistent supply of torque to the escapement, enhancing timekeeping accuracy by mitigating the diminishing force of the mainspring as it unwinds. The in-house developed Caliber G-05 features a 36-hour power reserve and operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). The movement is meticulously finished with polished bevels, frosted surfaces, and gold chatons, reflecting haute horlogerie standards. The case measures 39.5mm in diameter and 10.5mm in thickness, initially offered in white gold and rose gold, with later iterations including stainless steel.
For collectors, the Grönefeld 1941 Remontoire is highly regarded for its technical innovation, exceptional finishing, and the artisanal integrity of its creators. The limited production numbers and the personal connection of the Grönefeld brothers to their craft, rooted in generations of clock-keeping, add to its desirability. Early white gold models with salmon dials are particularly sought after, as are the later stainless steel versions featuring guilloché dials crafted by Kari Voutilainen and enamel accents, which represent a collaboration between esteemed independent watchmakers.
Thank you for your feedback. In gold medal position as usual
Both watches are heavyweights. I would love to be able to afford both but being retired has its downside Thank you for your feedback.
However I think the Grönefeld suits your wrist much better. If I remember correctly the Grönefeld has a concave “belly” under it’s 39.5 mm- case is more elegant, lugs amazing. The 1815 is more sitting on your wrist not wrapping around it. And since you met the brothers too..... You’re the boss.
It’s a difficult if not impossible dilemma. I to know the story behind the Grönefeld brothers and I to have been tempted (and still are tempted). What in the end made me hold back on the Grönefeld, (and I’m writing this with the utmost respect for the brothers) is the simple purely rationale issue of continuity risk. I take my hat of for what the two have achieved, I really do. But I couldn’t get over that burn8ng question: what happens if 10-15 years from now the watch needs repair. The remonto
I do expect many to favour the Lange here which is a monumental watch and I actually prefer it to the iconic Datograph.
Yes the continuity of an independent brand is always an issue many would feel uncomfortable with especially when a movement is as complex as the eight second remontoire. The Gronefeld brothers are younger than I am so from that perspective, I am reasonably confident that the company will exist during my lifetime at least. Bart and Tim will say that they are third generation watchmakers and I like to think that they would be an Independent brand who would weather most storms due to the quality an
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