Chromatic Fugue
1850
Crystal swap question
I love this Darth, but the one thing I would improve if I could is the crystal, which reflects too much light in some settings. This watch is from the early runs of the model (circa 1999) that still used uncoated crystals; only in later runs did they start using antireflective crystals. I called Lange to see if they could simply swap out the crystals, and the answer I got back was “yes, but only if you pay for a full service.” I’d love suggestions for alternative ways to get this done more cheaply and efficiently. Thanks.
Crystal swap question
I love this Darth, but the one thing I would improve if I could is the crystal, which reflects too much light in some settings. This watch is from the early runs of the model (circa 1999) that still used uncoated crystals; only in later runs did they star...
Very nice watch.
Pretty sad one has to pay for a full service (at Lange prices, no less) for what is a fix that can be done in 0 time by a qualified watchmaker with parts. Hopefully you find an independent who has access to the right kind of crystal...that might be challe...
Alkis
It looks like you are in the US. If so, I would see if Alkis Kotsopoulos at Swiss Watch Repair in NY can do it.
I second that, that's pretty much the only option ...
I have also looked into adding AR coating to a crystal. It is cheap, but the companies that do this kind of stuff only accept large bulk orders.
I was afraid...
...they were going to ask you to buy 2 more watches in order to do the swap : )
Well, I do have a cheap solution to your problem
But I'm afraid you may not like it ...
Yes because a watch collector loves nothing more than sending their watches into service!
Patek still hasn't given me my 1950s calatrava back... its been over one and a half years.
Nope. Zero Information
I also requested an OEM strap be made which came within 3 or so months. The boutique tells me every month that it's coming "this month" but it simply doesn't come. Perhaps someone at the service center was a little to eager in the repairs and they are doi...
Well, I'm sorry. That's infuriating.
Probably over 30 years ago, before I got into watches, I left my late grandfather's old Gruen with a watchmaker for repair. I'd call every month or so to check on it. After about 1.5 years, I finally insisted on getting it back.
Lange was talking about the "complete service of the movement AND THE CASE" option...
... shown here . That makes sense if you also want Lange to polish the case and service the watch. But as others have said, Alkis is your easiest option. I'll mention this too, since I hate non-AR crystals and put a ton of time into finding an affordable ...
Thanks everyone…
… for the very helpful guidance. Three messages stand out: (1) don’t rely on Lange to take care of its own, (2) trust in Alkis, and (3) otherwise, leave well enough alone.
