A. Lange & Söhne Double Split Acquisition Story
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A. Lange & Söhne Double Split Acquisition Story

By colton_d · Sep 15, 2016 · 8 replies
colton_d
WPS member · A. Lange & Söhne forum
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Colton_d shares a vivid account of acquiring a highly sought-after A. Lange & Söhne timepiece, framing it within his objective approach to collecting key pieces that stand the test of time. His narrative captures the excitement of the hunt, the value of horological friendships, and the sheer joy of experiencing exceptional watchmaking firsthand, culminating in a memorable gathering of rare Lange chronographs.

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Following some key words from frequent posters here, I have been trying to think objectively on collecting watches, and my small collection of Lange pieces. My goal is to focus on a small number of key pieces which will stand the test of time. This has helped me narrow my unrealized 'goal watches' down to three. These would need to be wearable on a daily basis, and just enough out of reach to keep me hungry.

Goal piece #1 had been on my mind quietly for a year or so, and I was determined not to find just any example.. but the 'right' example. Nothing surfaced over the months, however my thoughts on the watch remained steadfast. This idea slowly moved to the back of my mind until I came into work one morning, and low and behold, there it was on the screen!

After a quick exchange, the deal was set.. and my flight booked!

I strongly believe it is the friendships forged from this crazy obsession that make watch collecting a truly enjoyable pursuit, and I was not going to pass up an opportunity to meet face to face.

Believe me when I say the hours spent in the various airports (and resulting jetlag) were well worth it!

Warning the below pictures combine some serious hardware with a triple dose of sweet dessert.

I traveled lightly, bringing with me a vintage IWC which I thought would be a fun conversation piece.



I had a bit of time in the morning, and had heard this city was renowned for its coffee..



My host was gracious enough to give me a ride to lunch, which apparently also is a frequent establishment for pirates



Onto business though.. and it started with a bang!









This was my first chance to handle a platinum DS - incredible! Truly does deserve the 'mighty' moniker, and oozed power on the wrist. I know some others here who enjoy this piece on a santoni strap, and I can see why.

It seems the DS came with friends however, and the table quickly began to show signs of strain when two more emerged..





All too quickly, lunch was served.. however what followed for dessert took things over the top



yes, this is a real picture; and no, I do not think I will recover anytime soon from holding all three at once.













Also a first - handling the special 1815 Emil Lange Moonphase pieces. After seeing the trio together, it would be hard to imagine picking just one as a favourite. Luckily, that is not something I have to worry about.

So, what was the piece to follow me home? The iconic Datograph!





Fits perfectly on my wrist, and has stayed firmly there since returning home the following day. I won't go into specific detail on the Dato as it graces the wrists of many here, and I am very happy to join your club smile

Thank you again to the hosts for the lunch, it was an experience I won't soon forget, and hope to be back again someday. and thank you for reading!

Best,

Colton

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
CH
christianch
Sep 15, 2016

It looks great on you..I was thinking that you bought the whole collection (including the desserts ). Very nice photos and story! Wear it in good health! Christian

UT
utcpluseight
Sep 15, 2016

excellent choice for your beautiful piece! congrats! wear it in great health! hope to see your other two pieces completing your collection quest for 'goal' watches (pretty sure you've other great pieces too )! Cheers! Tony

CL
Clueless_Collector
Sep 15, 2016

Huge congratulations on this heavyweight. Well worth the trip! Rgds Raymond

KM
KMII
Sep 15, 2016

A mighty fine addition to your stable Enjoy it in good health!

AM
amanico
Sep 15, 2016

And this first generation even more! The Double Split is a marvel, even if huge, but, in my opinion, the best Rattrapante from the market. The 1815 Moonphase Tribute To Emil Lange... In platinum or rose gold, this is the most poetic from all the watches you had the opportunity to see during your GTG. What a moment you lived, Colton. Bravo. Nicolas

PI
piccolochimico (aka dsgalaxy1)
Sep 15, 2016

It's definitely one of those watches that should be worn on the back side. The first time i saw a DS i thought to to a tiny gothic city, with narrow houses and tall towers

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