Trading a bunch of Rolex for a Lange Dato, crazy?

[cbalster]

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

[OrangeSport]

Depending in exact models (on both sides of the trade), yes.

[Benzsiam]

If that make you happier, why not?

[CoveWatch]

Originally Posted by cbalster

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

and there lies the issue with answering right? as said above, if it makes you happy, then why not?

[cbalster]

Originally Posted by CoveWatch

and there lies the issue with answering right? as said above, if it makes you happy, then why not?

How can you know until you've been with both? That is the dilemma. It's hard to say whether owning a slew of nice Rolex watches would be outweighed in enjoyment by the Datograph without making the leap. Hence, I am asking for others' experiences. Further complicating matters is you can't exactly walk into a salon anymore and try on a Datograph. They're playing the exclusivity game too these days along with everyone else.

[WatchEater666]

Yes, the Datograph is miles ahead of anything Rolex makes. I can't believe how cheap they were until very very recently. The finishing and movement architecture is absolutely beautiful.

If WG/platinum, they can be dressed down really well too by the way!

[macrowatch]

How many of the watches that you are parting with do you wear often vs do you almost never wear?

I'd say there's something about the stlying of Rolex sports (which is obviously very different than dress). They appeal to different styles. I can say I love looking at some of the dress watches I have in the watch box, but after a few hours on the wrist, I get bored and wished I wore something else. That me personally.

[cbalster]

Originally Posted by WatchEater666

Yes, the Datograph is miles ahead of anything Rolex makes. I can't believe how cheap they were until very very recently. The finishing and movement architecture is absolutely beautiful.

If WG/platinum, they can be dressed down really well too by the way!

I can't believe how much in value they've been pumped up this year and I wonder if the prices/demand are real. I keep seeing the same pieces showing up for sale on C24 with refreshed prices. For all the new ALS hype, it feels a bit different than Rolex, much more contrived.

[JParm]

Originally Posted by cbalster

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

I think it definitely depends on what models you'd be trading in - you can't just say Rolexes for a Lange.

Cost and "holy trinity" aside, what truly matters are the models within each brand. Would I give up a couple OPs and a Datejust? Sure. How about a Hulk and a DD40? You'd be insane.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by cbalster

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

Short answer no.

[Meyrin]

Why not do it, if you really want a Lange? Go for it...you only live once! But while A. Lange & Söhne make fabulous and beautiful watches imho do be aware, from what I've heard about them here in Germany, that they're quite delicate watches, with the possible exception of the ss Odysseus. And repairs are eye-wateringly expensive, and many watchmakers apparently won't touch them...they usually have to be sent back to Lange in Glashütte. Not a problem here in Germany, but Glashütte´s an awful long way from California!

[cbalster]

Originally Posted by Meyrin

Why not do it, if you really want a Lange? Go for it...you only live once! But while A. Lange & Söhne make fabulous and beautiful watches imho do be aware, from what I've heard about them here in Germany, that they're quite delicate watches, with the possible exception of the ss Odysseus. And repairs are eye-wateringly expensive, and many watchmakers apparently won't touch them...they usually have to be sent back to Lange in Glashütte. Not a problem here in Germany, but Glashütte´s an awful long way from California!

Sound advice thank you.

The pieces in question would be a DJ41 fluted Blue Dial with 2 bracelets, an op39 white dial, a sd43 "mk1", and a milgauss GV. I wear these a bit less but still have an affiinity for their place in the Rolex catalogue. The brand has a rich history and all of these to me have place in it that I appreciate.

[beshannon]

Originally Posted by cbalster

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

Without knowing more details, no.

The Lange is far superior to anything Rolex makes. However the Lange is not a dive watch, it is not a GMT.

Only you can decide if this trade makes you happy.

[101031-28]

Originally Posted by Meyrin

Why not do it, if you really want a Lange? Go for it...you only live once! But while A. Lange & Söhne make fabulous and beautiful watches imho do be aware, from what I've heard about them here in Germany, that they're quite delicate watches, with the possible exception of the ss Odysseus. And repairs are eye-wateringly expensive, and many watchmakers apparently won't touch them...they usually have to be sent back to Lange in Glashütte. Not a problem here in Germany, but Glashütte´s an awful long way from California!

Thank you for your input. This definitely would be a big deterrent for me. Plus, every Rolex I have sold to purchase other brands, I have regretted. After the initial honeymoon phase, I would always find myself reaching for one of my Rolex watches. Now I stick to Rolex and could not be happier. YMMV.

[cbalster]

Originally Posted by 101031-28

Thank you for your input. This definitely would be a big deterrent for me. Plus, every Rolex I have sold to purchase other brands, I have regretted. After the initial honeymoon phase, I would always find myself reaching for one of my Rolex watches. Now I stick to Rolex and could not be happier. YMMV.

really appreciate this advice. Rolex are certainly the best watches to wear. Perhaps Lange are some of the best to hold and admire. I've actually heard Datographs are not that comfortable wearers.

[WatchEater666]

Originally Posted by cbalster

I can't believe how much in value they've been pumped up this year and I wonder if the prices/demand are real. I keep seeing the same pieces showing up for sale on C24 with refreshed prices. For all the new ALS hype, it feels a bit different than Rolex, much more contrived.

They are a step up from PP in the finishing department. Less sexy cases yes but the finishing is definitely better and the dato is an icon. IMO they were severely underpriced before which is a big reason I had them.

[Driver8]

Originally Posted by cbalster

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

For me, the first question is which Datograph?
The second question is what do you want from a watch?
And the third question is how much do you wear the pieces you're considering selling?

If the answer to the first question is a version that in terms of money means you aren't getting completely rinsed in the trade; the answer to second question is "high horology from one of the finest watchmakers in the world"; and the answer to the third question is "not very much", then to me it'd be an absolute no brainer to make the trade. The epitome of quality over quantity.

The Datograph is not just in a different league, it's in a different universe to anything Rolex makes in terms of watchmaking, plus it's one of the most important watches Lange has ever made. BUT, it has to fit what you want from a watch. A Datograph isn't really a 'go anywhere, do anything' kind of watch, but it is an absolute work of art.

[K@iser]

I wouldn't trade a bunch of watches just for one, I can do that for one or two. By the way they all tell time.

[Horationelson]

I can’t comment on the Datograph, but I bought a Lange earlier this year (Saxonia Outsize Date) and I have to say it feels and wears a million times superior to any of the Rolexes I have/have had. OK, slight hyperbole but it does feel like it’s in a different league.

The only downside? I have to be more careful about how/when I wear it - e.g. I try not to wear it too much around the children and definitely away from water. But I still have a few other sports watches which I can wear when the Lange isn’t an option.

[Chewbacca]

Do it!!

[yesnaya]

You should try the Dato on 1st. Then once you know if you want it or not... Look for a used one as Lange in general dont keep their value very well so you may be able to get a really nice deal.

After that it's just about the money (how many rolex watches to sell to get to the magic number). If the watch is your grail then it doesnt matter what you trade for it. Better make sure it's your grail before you liquidate some pieces you genuinely love/enjoy.

Originally Posted by cbalster

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

[Luke@TRF]

I would use some price inflated rolex watches in exchange for a pp/ALS/FPJ. afterall these are the artefact watches.

[bonsai-man]

I’m with Padi, NO.

[nyc2la]

Originally Posted by cbalster

Sound advice thank you.

The pieces in question would be a DJ41 fluted Blue Dial with 2 bracelets, an op39 white dial, a sd43 "mk1", and a milgauss GV. I wear these a bit less but still have an affiinity for their place in the Rolex catalogue. The brand has a rich history and all of these to me have place in it that I appreciate.

The Datograoh Up/Down in platinum is as close to perfect a watch I’ve owned. I wear it dressed up and dressed down. Mostly dressed down recently, since I’m always in shorts and tees or polos. This watch is a very sporty watch that happens to be on a strap. A beautiful combination for most occasions. I don’t wear it in the water or if I know I’ll be banging around.

For the watches you listed, I absolutely would make the trade. The only caveat is that you have other Rolex in the stable.

I love having the Dataograph in my watch box. I equally love having a few Rolex, too. They complement each other very well.

[Macnavara]

Originally Posted by cbalster

The Lange Datograph is a watch I will own at some point. Hard to move into this piece without losing some pieces. Funds are finite.

Without getting into the details of all the models I'd trade, would you consider trading several Rolexes and a Grand Seiko Snowflake for one Lange Datograph. Has anyone ever done something like this before and come to regret it, or done so and never looked back?

Long answer …no

[Dr. Robert]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

I’m with Padi, NO.

Me too

[epicurus]

Absolutely. Lange is in a different class altogether

[1665fan]

Longest answer….yes

[jefe1999]

A few years ago, I traded an 18k Daytona 116528 for a Lange 1 in platinum.

Without regard to resale, this is one of the most satisfactory trades I've ever done.

[denmanproject]

Yes as long as you are left with at least one SS Rolex