The time only 1815 models from A. Lange & Sohne are difficult to describe, characterize, and highlight when superlatives just don’t seem fitting for something so simple, almost austere, and thoroughly refined. And that juxtaposition captures what make the 1815 models, specifically, the manually wound, time-only 1815 so freaking good. Everything on the watch is in perfect harmony, balance, restraint, and decidedly Germanic, but managing to do so without being cold or sterile. I suspect the subtle combination of the more decorative quarter hour markers, heat blued hands, and subtly stepped dial all contribute to the depth in refinement to make the watch have “it”.

Where I feel the 1815’s excel within the overall Lange catalog is wearability. With slightly more prominent lugs and less stoic dials than the current Saxonia models, the 1815 bridges the gap between formal dress watch and everyday delight, while also being far more wearable and comfortable on wrist than the Lange 1 or the brand’s complicated models. Most lean into and enjoy the novelty and ever-reminding presence of the thicker, more top-heavy, Lange 1 to more complicated models, but I personally find the Lange character (and movement) with increased wearability and comfortability is where the 1815 shines. Perhaps no watch in the 1815 lineup leans into this more than the reference 235.026, with a universally adored 38.5 mm case that doesn’t lose the gravity or the importance and standing of the watch thanks to the solid white gold case. Truly one of those instances of a “perfect thing”, the 1815 on offer provides substantial value to any peers and the modern Lange catalog.

Case: The 38.5 x 45 x 8.8 mm solid white gold case is in excellent condition throughout, and appears to be unpolished with thick, even, prominently defined lugs. The front and rear crystals are both very clean and the watch presents exceptionally well.

Dial: The Argente Silver dials (and Lange more broadly) really need to be experienced in person as the subtle texture, richness, and not-silver, not-white, hue create a richness and warmth that’s very difficult to describe but immediately appreciated on wrist. The dial and hands are free from any defects.

Movement: The in-house caliber L051.1 is manually wound with a 55-hour power reserve and beautiful details throughout with black polishing, hand engraving, perlage, anglage, polished countersinks and chatons, all the details. The watch is winding, setting, and running well at approximately +3.5 s/d, averaged across 6 positions.

Strap: The watch is presented on its original black alligator signed strap with white gold signed pin buckle.

Includes: Outer box sleeve, outer box, inner leather box, booklet holder with cleaning cloth, welcome booklet, manual, service centers booklet, and guarantee dated 2019.The inner leather box patent leather exterior is flaking, as pictured.