Datograph vs Dufourgraph

[malarky_hk]

Lately, I've been obsessing over what would be my next and likely final piece when I'll call it day and be content with what I've got in my little stable.

The siren song of the Datograph is singing to me oh so sweetly. So I'm musing around for the moment and doing the requisite due diligence.

What I have here now is a battle of the titans.



I think the the platinum version of the Dato is quite quite popular and can usually be found without much effort. Whereas, the RG version (aka the Dufourgraph) seems, to me, to be more of a rarity.

In terms of price, is there a significant difference between the two given one is in platinum and the other rose gold? However, does the rarity of the RG version offset any premium of the more expensive metal (platinum)?

Looked on Chrono24 and nothing listed for the Dufourgraph. Appreciate if the TRF experts can chime in on the matter.

Both are absolutely lovely pieces and I haven't decided which one I prefer more. I will be getting an opportunity to handle both in the metal shortly.

[capote]

Dufourgraph? Does Dufour own one or why that nickname?

[malarky_hk]

It is rumoured that aside from his own creations, the only other watch Dufour has is the RG version of the Dato - leading many to then refer to that particular RG reference as the Dufourgraph.

[capote]

I see. Although he actually owns two vintage JLC tripple dates too, one with a moonphase and one without, but I bet there are plenty of other watches there too.

[PJ S]

There is one RG Datograph, but it's the newer model with the PR indicator at 6 – https://www.chrono24.com/en/alangeso...-id3194062.htm

I prefer that to the one depicted above, as the 3 Roman Numeral markers look a bit naff, in combination with simple stick baton markers.
Granted that you do lose the numbers on the seconds/minutes track – seems like ALS don't want to give you it all.

[HL65]

Tough call but for me I chose the original platinum over any of the others. I love the iconic look as well as the fit and feel of it. The RG is also incredible but finding one not so easy. I had a chance to get one before I got the platinum but couldn't resist the black and white charm of the platinum so that was my choice. Either way one can't lose as both are amazing pieces! Cheers,

[malarky_hk]

I prefer the look and size of the orginal Dato.

Ken, can you comment on the price difference between the two models?

[HL65]

Originally Posted by malarky_hk

I prefer the look and size of the orginal Dato.

Ken, can you comment on the price difference between the two models?

I was offered mint complete RG one for $4K less than platinum. I also got lucky and my platinum was NOS and never even worn from 09'. Mr. Dufour stated he got the RG due to price not preference over the platinum and also it was all about the movement!! Either way you can't go wrong as both are amazing.

[kilyung]

Plat is the way to go but get the deployant IMHO

[AK797]

Plat for me.

[GB-man]

I like white metal and what's cooler than platinum? ? ?




Nothing, nothing is cooler I can assure you

[daytonaTBR]

Normally I prefer white metals on Lange however when I comes to the datograph (both 1st and 2nd gen) I happen to prefer rose gold.

[malarky_hk]

Originally Posted by HL65

I was offered mint complete RG one for $4K less than platinum. I also got lucky and my platinum was NOS and never even worn from 09'. Mr. Dufour stated he got the RG due to price not preference over the platinum and also it was all about the movement!! Either way you can't go wrong as both are amazing.

Thanks for the info Ken. Did you get your Dato serviced after picking it up so nice it was 6 year old NOS? Any idea on the service cost and time? I need to factor those variables into the equation.

[thomaspp]

I would also opt for the platinum even if you could locate a RG - a pure metal for a pure watch. Good luck!

[jjnd08]

Plat for me on this one.

[HL65]

Originally Posted by malarky_hk

Thanks for the info Ken. Did you get your Dato serviced after picking it up so nice it was 6 year old NOS? Any idea on the service cost and time? I need to factor those variables into the equation.

Mark: I am having my watch serviced by Alkis who is Lange watchmaker here in US end of September and it will take 3 weeks and cost is $1550.

[malarky_hk]

3 weeks and $1,500 ain't bad at all. Certainly beats PP service times.

I maybe tempted to look for one in reasonable condition with a good discount and then take in for service and polish. What do you reckon?

[HL65]

Originally Posted by malarky_hk

3 weeks and $1,500 ain't bad at all. Certainly beats PP service times.

I maybe tempted to look for one in reasonable condition with a good discount and then take in for service and polish. What do you reckon?

To do case refinish it is more of course. Mine is just for a movement service as my watch is brand new so no marks. Also I am lucky as they let me set up appointment in advance rather then sending the watch in so thus only 3 weeks with them. Alkis is also one of the best watchmakers around so lucky to have him here in US!

As for finding one just make sure it is 100% complete and you can always service! It is a fantastic watch and you will love it!! I had one years back and made mistake of letting it go and decided to get it back. Best of luck in your search...Cheers,

[HL65]

By the way one thing to add: On the new Up Down I prefer the RG as it really pops. So best option for me original platinum and new RG Up Down for perfect Dato combo unless of course one wanted to throw in new WG grey dial Dato P!

[malarky_hk]

Thanks again for the info Ken. I'll be checking out both models shortly.