POWER OF THREE
In the first of our handson reviews of the latest horological stars, we look at A. Lange & Sohne’s Triple Split chronograph.
A review of A. Lange & Sohne’s Triple Split Chronograph.
WHAT IT IS:
A. Lange & Sohne first improved on the traditional rattrapante (or split-seconds) chronograph in 2004 when it released the Double Split, which can record simultaneous timings of up to 30 minutes. Typical split-seconds chronographs can only record twin timings of up to a minute. The Triple Split extends the brand’s lead in this area for being the world’s first chronograph capable of timing two simultaneous events of up to 12 hours each. If that’s not enough, this watch is also a flyback chronograph, and has a 55-hour power reserve – significantly longer than the Double Split’s 38 hours.
HOW IT LOOKS:
Despite its complexity, the Triple Split’s dial is balanced and easy to read. The symmetrical layout is a key factor in its legibility, as is the blue of the extra set of steel rattrapante hands, which differentiates them from the “primary” chronograph hands. The view through the transparent case back is, as usual, breathtaking. A. Lange & Sohne’s movements have always been visually spectacular, and this is especially so with its chronographs.
HOW IT WEARS:
With a hefty white gold case 43.2mm wide and 15.6mm high, the Triple Split will not be winning any awards for wearability or subtlety. Considering its mechanical complexity, any hope of fitting it under a shirt cuff would be unrealistic. But fans may find its bulk a small price to pay for its technical prowess. The Triple Split’s case is only 0.3mm thicker than the Double Split’s, despite the longer power reserve and greater number of parts (567 vs 465).