Baron - Mr Red shares his initial impressions of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph, a watch that challenges some of his established preferences for complications. His candid review, penned after a few weeks of wear and just before its first service in a decade, offers valuable insights into the ownership experience of this significant timepiece. This article explores why a collector might embrace a watch that initially seems to defy their 'rules.'
So.....my watch has been on my wrist now for a few weeks. I have now sent it off to service. First time back in 10 years since being made. But after a few weeks, I can offer at least some first impressions.
1) At 39mm, it is almost a perfect size for my taste.
2) It is a heavy watch, but actually that is a big positive for me. I really enjoy that feeling of weight.
3) The watch is deep. Compared with my other chronographs, it feels very deep. But again, I find this really attractive.
4) I have no Roman numeral dials in my collection other than this...for choice, i would prefer a different style....but this is a small factor.
5) The dial is not a gloss dial in any sense. But it is also not entirely matt either. I find its sheen very alluring. There is a depth to the colour of the dial that is contrasted very well against the white of the metal. That works very very well indeed.
6) The dial balance works very well. I feel there is a beauty to the balance of the dial that I did not get from the proportions of the second series. to my eye, a better cohesion.
7) I own no annual calendar. In fact, I find the complication tricky....but this complication doesn't feel wrong at all. In fact, I found it extremely useful. I always forget the date...whereas I can normally be relied upon to get the month and year correct.
8) Of course....lets not forget the movement......the star of the show.
Very early days for me with this. The first impressions are positive for sure. Now it will go off for a service and some care.
