A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 vs A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031

In-Depth Comparison

The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 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 Datograph reference was introduced in 2016, while this Datograph reference debuted in 2012. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 beats the Caliber L952.2 caliber offering a 50-hour power reserve running at 18,000 vph with 43 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. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 wins on power reserve with a 10-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 features a 41.5mm case at 14.6mm thick with a 49.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Platinum 950. 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. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 120g, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 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 Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 comes on a Black alligator leather strap with Platinum folding clasp, 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 Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 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 Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 lists for $295,000 compared to $90,900 for the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $204,100 at retail. On the secondary market, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 trades around $350,000 while the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 commands approximately $100,000. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 trades at a 19% premium over retail, indicating strong demand and investment potential. The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 carries a 10% market premium.

The Verdict

Choosing between the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.056 and the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down 405.031 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. 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.