Patek Philippe

Is chronograph pusher feel a matter of mechanics alone or does taste also enter the equation? Take the CH 29-535. The start/stop pusher has a distinct break point that requires a decent amount of pressure to overcome. By contrast the reset pusher presents... 

I suspect it has everything to do with build quality

I’d be interested to hear from a watchmaker on this. I’m sure build quality plays a role but the fact the two pushers on the 29-535 feel so different makes me wonder if there’s a choice here on pusher feel. Patek’s start/stop pusher is different but I don... 

As I debate between an ALS 1815 chronograph and a Patek 5172, I understand the Lange will have that smoothness and objectively finer movement, and a smaller diameter to boot. Yet despite this I feel drawn to the 5172, as I absolutely adore the looks of it... 

I have both the 1815 Chrono and the 5172. They’re very different watches. The 5172 is more of a daily while the 1815 has more of a special occasion feel, particularly in rose gold. I think the movements are very close in quality - the Lange has more contr... 

to obtain the 5172, I would be giving up the white gold black dial duometre chrono limited edition, which I think you have too. I am not sure I am ready to do that! although that one I don't wear as much because of the thickness.

Daytona 116520 and Daytona 116500LN. The newer model def feels more snappy. Both feel very smooth.

I’ve also found the same model can feel different.

german silver which is actually an alloy of copper, nickel and zinc is much more malleable than stainless steel so in order to not damage over time the movement Langes pushers are softer then Pateks? This is just a theory though, I wish a watchmaker would... 

I’m not a watchmaker, but I can give a definitive answer on this. When you start the CH 29-535 you also cock the hammers, which are in place by a latch. When you press the reset button the latch releases the hammers. Note how the hammers sit home against ...  

That’s very helpful thank you. Good to know why it’s so different. What are your thoughts on the start/stop pusher feel?

I press the top button with the pad of my finger, and the bottom button with the side of my finger, so I think a heavy top button is okay, but a heavy bottom button would be uncomfortable. Patek’s top heavy and Lange’s balanced style are both good by me. ...  

between these two watches because what you are pushing in the mechanism with the pushers and how much force you have to apply in order to make it work is different? In Lange what the pusher needs to do within the mechanism when you push it, require a less... 

Yes, the Patek is like a crossbow, the top pusher is like pulling back the bow string, and the bottom pusher is like pulling the trigger. Also when you press the top pusher again to pause and restart it will feel lighter because it doesn’t require cocking... 

you for the clear explanation - very helpful!

The 5247 is butter smooth; the 3800 nearly pops. I always wondered about the difference and am curious if it matters.

Lemania 2310 which is a column wheel versus Lemania 1350 which is cam-based. Might have something to do with the actuation mechanism, but could also have a lot to do with tuning of the movement.

For a more elegant / regined watch, well the smoother, the better. My 2 cents...