A fake Lange 2 perpetual is a replica of the A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Perpetual Calendar, the Glashütte maker's second perpetual calendar line after the 2001 Langematik Perpetual. Replicas sell from roughly $120 to $900 and copy the 41.9 mm case, the off-center dial layout, the outsize date, and the moonphase subdial. No replica in that price range runs a genuine mechanical perpetual calendar, so the calendar displays either stay decorative or need manual correction.
Why do people search for a "Lange 2 perpetual"?
The nickname comes from counting the brand's perpetual calendar families. The Langematik Perpetual arrived in 2001 as the first, and the Lange 1 Perpetual Calendar followed in 2021 as the second. Some listings stretch the name to later dial variations, but the reference is always a Lange 1, never an official "Lange 2."
What does a good fake Lange 2 perpetual get right?
A top-tier replica can match the 41.9 mm diameter and roughly 12 mm thickness, and it can reproduce the printed dial layout with recessed subdials and a stepped bezel. Case finishing at that level copies the mix of brushed and polished surfaces. The sapphire caseback shows a decorated rotor or bridge work that photographs well.
Where do replica Lange perpetual calendars fail?
- Calendar logic: no replica runs a real perpetual program, so the date does not roll from February 28 to March 1 on its own.
- Moonphase accuracy: replica moon discs are printed wheels, not the geared train that keeps the real one accurate for decades.
- Movement finish: hand-engraved balance cocks and black-polished steel parts do not show up in replica movements.
- Weight and feel: a pink gold original weighs far more than a steel or plated replica of the same size.
- Engraving depth: laser engraving looks shallow next to the freehand engraving on the genuine article.
How much should a fake Lange perpetual cost?
Budget replicas sit near $120 to $250 and use quartz or low-grade automatic movements. Mid-tier versions run $300 to $550 with a better automatic movement and cleaner dial printing. The best replicas, often $650 to $950, add a decorated rotor, sapphire front and back, and a convincing moonphase disc. Prices above that range usually reflect seller markup, not extra quality.
What should you check before buying?
- Ask for a video of the date changing at midnight, since many replicas jump early or stall.
- Confirm the movement type, jewel count, and power reserve in writing.
- Compare the stated case diameter and lug width against the real 41.9 mm spec.
- Request clear photos of the caseback and engraving under bright light.
- Verify the return window and warranty terms before paying.
How can you tell a fake Lange 2 perpetual from the real watch?
The original uses calibre L021.3 with a 50-hour power reserve, a leap-year indication, and hand-finished components. Genuine examples trade well above $90,000 and include full paperwork and service history. A replica with no leap-year display, a rough crown action, or a generic rotor is easy to spot once you look at the movement.
Is buying a fake Lange legal?
A. Lange & Söhne holds trademark rights to its name and dial design, and US Customs can seize counterfeit goods at the border. Buyers of replicas carry legal risk and get no brand service or parts support. Watches sold as unbranded homages sit in a different category under most interpretations.