A. Lange & Söhne Underrated Collection

Jay (Eire) · 2021-02-27T04:08:15Z

Jay (Eire) reviews his A. Lange & Söhne Richard Lange Pour le Mérite, discussing its discreet charm, the surprising modernity of its Roman numerals, and the evolution of collector preferences.

Jay (Eire)

WPS member · A. Lange & Söhne forum

33 replies2661 views2 photos

Jay (Eire) shares his personal journey with a discreet A. Lange & Söhne timepiece, highlighting its 'under the radar' appeal and the surprising modernity of its Roman numeral dial. His reflections offer a valuable perspective on how personal tastes evolve within watch collecting, making a case for revisiting initial impressions of a watch's aesthetic.

One of the big attractions of this piece was the fact that to everyone it looks like a very simple three hand watch. No indications whatsoever of what might be going on underneath that dial. Most definitely not something to grab any unwanted eyes.

I was unsure at first about the dial, I am generally not a fan of Roman numerals as often I find they give the watch an older feel, dated even. This was the primary reason several years ago I bought the current Dato Up/Down and not the original Dato which was a far better fit for my wrist. I couldn’t get past how I viewed the Roman numerals and how (to me) it made the watch seem almost old fashioned (I know, don’t shoot me it’s just an opinion). Here however I find the romans do not have the same effect, the dial is clean and the contrast with the numerals is stark. So much so it feels modern or contemporary.

I’m enjoying this one and when life returns to normal and office and client visits become regular again I can see this being a regular companion.

Key Points from the Discussion

The Richard Lange line, particularly the Pour le Mérite, is considered by some collectors to be among the best in the entire A. Lange & Söhne family, with a strong desire to acquire even a 'simple' Richard Lange in rose gold.
A significant appeal of this particular A. Lange & Söhne model is its ability to fly under the radar, being recognized by connoisseurs but largely unnoticed by the general public, a characteristic that extends to Lange watches more broadly and is valued by many collectors.
The evolution of one's views on design elements, such as Roman numerals, is a core aspect of the joy in watch collecting, preventing stagnation and encouraging continuous discovery.
While acknowledging the watch's excellence, minor subjective improvements could include a slightly smaller case size or a non-stepped dial, though these are considered 'splitting hairs' given the watch's overall quality and standing against other high-end timepieces.
The process of collecting involves significant shifts in perspective over time, driven by increased knowledge and exposure, which can lead to a complete reversal of initial opinions on certain watches.

The Discussion

stromer

Feb 27, 2021

But for them it is a feast. For me it is one of the best in the entire Lange family. But I have to admit that to me the Richard Lange line is the most interesting anyway. I would love to add a „simple“ Richard Lange RG to my box one day. Enjoy your PLM as much as it deserves and do so in best health! Best, Martin

Jay (Eire)

Feb 27, 2021

This one, the WG but with black dial I think is more casual potentially than the WG argente.

agyzace

Feb 27, 2021

I am not saying it lightly. Superb

Darron

Feb 27, 2021

Perfect fitment 😀. Without trying to sound too corny, your comments on the evolution of your thoughts on the use of Roman numerals is what makes watch collecting so joyful for us. If our views were never allowed to change, it would be quite boring!

Jay (Eire)

Feb 27, 2021

It’s interesting to look back 5, 10, 15 years etc and think about what was driving decisions then, what was important, how much one knew or more importantly how much one didn’t know! I’ve done 180 degree turns on several watches over time, and I think many of us have. Definitely keeps it interesting and even if the world of watches remained the same (no new releases) time, exposure and knowledge can for sure change ones views and so there’ll always be some new rabbit hole to jump into.

Jay (Eire)

Feb 27, 2021

I’d be curious at to what you might change that would make it perfect. Some of this is subjective of course, I think for me being a couple of millimeters smaller would be the obvious change. But for others this case size it likely perfect for a watch that can mix it up between casual and more dressy.

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