A. Lange & Söhne Collection: New Acquisition

holdemchamp1225 · 2021-05-10T12:14:07Z

Discover holdemchamp1225's journey with the A. Lange & Söhne Double Split. Uncover insights on comfort, movement, and why this platinum masterpiece defies expectations.

holdemchamp1225

WPS member · A. Lange & Söhne forum

111 replies9828 views2 photos

In this insightful post, holdemchamp1225 shares his unexpected journey with the A. Lange & Söhne Double Split, a watch he initially dismissed due to its size. His candid account challenges conventional wisdom about watch comfort, demonstrating how case dimensions interact with wrist dynamics in surprising ways. This piece offers valuable perspective for collectors grappling with watch wearability and the allure of significant horological complications.

Long story so I will try and be brief.

I've had the 39mm Datograph 3 separate times and each time I tried to wear it unsuccessfully due to comfort issues. I think it has to do with the ratio of thickness to diameter of the case which makes it wear like a hockey puck!! So I ended up giving it to family members each time.

I never even thought about the Double Split since it was 43mm so even bigger and heavier than the 39mm Datograph but I was presented with a trade offer from a friend I simply couldn't refuse. I told myself, stop being a little bxtch and MAN THE FxCK UP 🤣🤣🤣

After wearing it for a few hours I can say it wears better than the 39mm Datograph for me. I know that sounds strange but I think the larger case makes it more comfortable on the wrist in comparison to the thickness. It really has to do with the thickness - case diameter ratio.

Got it with both a PT deployant buckle and the tang buckle. The PT deployant buckle really seems to balance out the heavy PT case better but I find it also wears great with a thicker and more supple strap with the tang buckle. I did a quick strap change with a special tanning nubuck alligator strap I had from other watches and have to say, she is a looker. The strap is super thick and supple which I think really helps with the comfort.

Ok, enough gibby gabba, take a look at this BEAST 👹

Key Points from the Discussion

The Double Split, particularly the first-generation platinum variant with panda subdials and Roman numerals, is a rare reference with limited production across its variants, as detailed on Langepedia.
The comfort of a watch like the Double Split can be significantly enhanced by a thicker, more supple strap, especially when paired with a platinum deployant buckle to balance the heavy case.
The Double Split's larger 43mm case, despite being bigger than the 39mm Datograph, can paradoxically offer better comfort due to a more favorable thickness-to-diameter ratio on the wrist.
The movement architecture and depth of the A. Lange & Söhne Double Split are considered stunning, with its finishing often regarded as superior to even the Triple Split.
Many collectors are increasingly recognizing the intricate detail, well-thought-out design, and smart engineering in Lange watches, arguing they can rival or even surpass the 'Holy Trinity' of watchmaking.
The experience of wearing a substantial piece like the Double Split is unforgettable, and if one can comfortably wear it, other similarly sized watches like the JLC MMR might also be suitable.

The Discussion

Cpt Scarlet

May 10, 2021

It’s interesting to hear your thoughts on the two different sizes and how it works for you. You should have some great fun with straps on this one.

MiguelFlash

May 10, 2021

Love the double split! Looks great on your wrist. Enjoy!

Jay (Eire)

May 10, 2021

That’s a monster, congratulations. I remember seeing a YG one a few years ago at a dealer in Japan, the only one I’ve seen in the metal.

Seeks

May 10, 2021

well done - This is a killer!

lm6

May 10, 2021

Fully agree that the thickness-diameter ratio is all important to how a watch wears and feels. And - not to forget - the strap matches the cat!

Tchela1

May 10, 2021

But the size looks appropriately fitting on you, especially next to the other giant, Yokozuna! Beautiful addition to your horological collection with a fantastic strap!

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A. Lange & Söhne Collection: New Acquisition

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