Lange 1815 Annual Calendar vs. Lange 1 Moon Phase PT
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Lange 1815 Annual Calendar vs. Lange 1 Moon Phase PT

By mac · Apr 7, 2018 · 12 replies
mac
WPS member · A. Lange & Söhne forum
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Mac shares his detailed journey in selecting a new daily wearer, initially torn between the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Annual Calendar and the Lange 1 Moon Phase in Platinum. His thoughtful process, including multiple boutique visits and internal debates, ultimately led him to an unexpected yet satisfying choice: the Langematik Perpetual. This article explores his decision-making and the community's insights.

A few weeks ago I asked for some thoughts on the two watches mentioned in the header.  I was specifically looking for a new daily wearer for the office. I was first attracted to the 1815 Annual Calendar, finding it combined two elements I really liked, the arabics and calendar function.  

IMG_0521

Photo - ablogtowatch

When I stopped at the NYC Boutique I really liked the look of the watch, but it didn’t resonate as strongly as I was expecting.  The date was hard to read, although better than the JLC MUT perpetual I was replacing.  The 40mm size was also substantial for me.  While it fit well on my wrist, I felt the combination of its size and arabics made it a bit more casual than I wanted.  It would make second watch, but not my main daily wearer.  

I also liked the Lange 1 Moon Phase in PT.  I have always found the watch striking, but I never really pursued one.  The watch was super attractive, particularly the the sheen of PT and the prominence of the blue moon phase.  I also liked the smooth winding and how the case fit my wrist.  I wasn’t sure of the offset dial, though, so I took another trip.  On this visit, I also had a chance to look at the black dial Lange 1 MP as well as a yellow gold Langematik Perpetual.  While I liked both the rhodium and black dial, I was more drawn to the black.  I actually favored it over the rhodium version, but I knew I wanted a white dial for a daily wearer.  I also took a look at the Langematik Perpetual.  I found the dial striking, but the yellow case and price made it a non-starter.  After some internal debate, I spoke with AD about Lane 1 MP in PT.

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photo - monochrome

I had second thoughts, though, not being 100% sure it was the right choice.  I really like having a calendar watch, so I started doing some research.  With my ADs assistance and stretching the original budget, I ended up with slightly used Langematik Perpetual.  It wasn’t an easy process, though.  He initially found a unworn version, but it turned out to be much older than both us expected.  The watch looked mint and had the button pusher, but I really preferred the brighter dial of the newer version.  He continued looking and ultimately found my watch below.

IMG_1729

The watch is not as mint as the first one and shows more superficial scratches than I am used to seeing.  There is actually one deeper scratch that bothers me, but I know I can learn to live with it.  The watch runs well, has a deployant, and is a complete package.  I know it was the right choice.  The sheen of the case and brighter dial make me smile.  While it wears so differently than my old JLC perpetual, it is comfortable and just feels planted on my wrist.  Fortunately for me, the market doesn’t seem to favor the 38.5mm case size.  

To sum this up, this whole search started by me having to service my 3 year old JLC, and deciding to try something new.  I am very happy on how it turned out.  I still attracted to the 1815 Annual Calendar.  I also have new appreciation of the Lange 1 and all of its variants.  I can easily see myself adding a black dial Lange 1 MP or a blue dial Daymatic in the near future (if I am willing to part with something).  I also want say thank you for all of the helpful comments and opinions along the way.  
 


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
CR
crocker7
Apr 7, 2018

Thanks for a great story. I’ve been looking for a dressy everyday, for quite sometime. To be honest, I think I like the hunt for that perfect watch, as much as I like the watch once I finally get it. Your story was great!

MD
mdg
Apr 7, 2018

...of the Annual Calendar is the one to look at...genius.

JA
Jay (Eire)
Apr 7, 2018

It's always interesting to hear others perspective. I too have on occasion picked up a watch that was perhaps a little more worn than it would had it been mine from day one. Actually the best example of that is probably my only Lange. It doesn't bother me now, there is nothing more than some superficial swirls. And I know I could have it cleaned up if I wished but having it for a few years now I don't think about that so much anymore. Enjoy this latest acquisition. Make sure to give it a length

MO
Mostel
Apr 7, 2018

But I'd have to go with the original for a very idiosyncratic reason... I feel that all annuals or perpetuals that have the moon at 6... look like an 'unhappy face' or frowning face. It hit me many years ago with my 3940... And I can't unsee it. So I prefer moon at 12 or off-center... Or I also like the Patek rattrapante/ perp w 'upside down' moon... FWIW

BO
Boris
Apr 7, 2018

...and an outstanding way to resolve it by picking a third option. Given the same two original options, I would have gone for the Annual Calendar, but I hear what you are saying regarding the legibility of the date. Congratulations on wise choice, and a remarkable watch.

CR
CR
Apr 7, 2018

I had a similar reaction when the Langematik Perpetual was introduced back in 2001. I thought both the yellow and platinum models were really beautiful. Ultimately I got the platinum. It was a tough choice, and I still think (and look) twice whenever I see a preowned yellow gold model. At that time, the newer dials on the platinum models didn't yet exist. I was never thrilled with the old dial's matte finish and pinkish hue. It looked a little off to me. So more than a decade later, when I first

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