A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 vs Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph
| Specification | A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 | Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | A. Lange & Söhne | Patek Philippe |
| Collection | Datograph | Complications |
| Reference | 405.031 | 5935A-001 |
| Category | Chronograph | Chronograph |
| Movement Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Caliber | Caliber L951.6 | Patek Philippe CH 28-520 HU |
| Power Reserve | 60h | 55h |
| Frequency | 18,000 vph | 28,800 vph |
| Case Diameter | 41.0mm | 41.0mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.1mm | 12.7mm |
| Case Material | Platinum 950 | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft | 30m / 98ft |
| Weight | 120g | 100g |
| MSRP | $90,900 | $93,500 |
| Market Price | $100,000 | $180,000 |
In-Depth Comparison
The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 and the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph 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 Patek Philippe are both highly respected names in watchmaking. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 comes from Germany, while the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph originates from Switzerland. This particular Datograph reference was introduced in 2012, while this Complications reference debuted in 2023. The Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.
Movement And Mechanics
At the heart of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 beats the Caliber L951.6 caliber offering a 60-hour power reserve running at 18,000 vph with 40 jewels. The Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph is powered by the Patek Philippe CH 28-520 HU with a 55-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 33 jewels. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 wins on power reserve with a 5-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.
Dimensions And Wearability
The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 features a 41.0mm case at 13.1mm thick with a 48.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Platinum 950. The Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph comes in at 41.0mm and 12.7mm thick with 47.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 100g, the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph is the lighter of the two.
Materials And Construction
The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed, smooth bezel. On the wrist, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 comes on a Black alligator leather strap with Platinum folding clasp, while the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph is fitted with Blue composite strap featuring Fold-over clasp in stainless steel.
Water Resistance And Capability
The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph 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 Datograph Up/Down 405.031 lists for $90,900 compared to $93,500 for the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $2,600 at retail. On the secondary market, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 trades around $100,000 while the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph commands approximately $180,000. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 trades at a 10% premium over retail, indicating strong demand and investment potential. The Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph carries a 93% market premium.
The Verdict
Choosing between the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 and the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. as an investment, the Patek Philippe Complications 5935A-001 World Time Flyback Chronograph shows strong value retention. 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.