A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 vs A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031
| Specification | A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 | A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | A. Lange & Söhne | A. Lange & Söhne |
| Collection | 1815 | Datograph |
| Reference | 414.028 | 405.031 |
| Category | Chronograph | Chronograph |
| Movement Type | Manual | Manual |
| Caliber | Caliber L951.5 | Caliber L951.6 |
| Power Reserve | 60h | 60h |
| Frequency | 21,600 vph | 18,000 vph |
| Case Diameter | 39.5mm | 41.0mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.8mm | 13.1mm |
| Case Material | 18k Rose Gold | Platinum 950 |
| Crystal | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating |
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft | 30m / 98ft |
| Weight | 74g | 120g |
| MSRP | $56,500 | $90,900 |
| Market Price | $50,000 | $100,000 |
In-Depth Comparison
The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 and the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.
Heritage And Brand Prestige
A. Lange & Söhne and A. Lange & Söhne is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Germany, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular 1815 reference was introduced in 2010, while this Datograph reference debuted in 2012. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.
Movement And Mechanics
At the heart of the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 beats the Caliber L951.5 caliber offering a 60-hour power reserve running at 21,600 vph with 34 jewels. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is powered by the Caliber L951.6 with a 60-hour power reserve operating at 18,000 vph featuring 40 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.
Dimensions And Wearability
The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 features a 39.5mm case at 10.8mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 comes in at 41.0mm and 13.1mm thick with 48.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Platinum 950. The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 74g, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 is the lighter of the two.
Materials And Construction
The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Fixed, polished bezel. On the wrist, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 comes on a Dark brown alligator leather strap with 18k rose gold pin buckle, while the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is fitted with Black alligator leather strap featuring Platinum folding clasp.
Water Resistance And Capability
The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.
Pricing And Value
At retail, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 lists for $56,500 compared to $90,900 for the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031. The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $34,400 at retail. On the secondary market, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 trades around $50,000 while the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 commands approximately $100,000. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 carries a 10% market premium.
The Verdict
Choosing between the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 and the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. for dress occasions and smaller wrists, the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph 414.028 is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.