A. Lange & Söhne | Comprehensive Report from the Geneva Salon!

A.LANGE & SÖHNE | A. Lange & Söhne

A highly anticipated Grand Complication model joins the "Lange 1" collection!

A complex new model featuring a tourbillon and perpetual calendar mechanism has been added to the popular classic "Lange 1." The larger "Grand Lange 1" case model has been reborn as a slimmer timepiece with a completely renewed movement. Furthermore, the classic "Datograph" has been refined and evolved into a new model.

Text & Event Photographs by SHIBUYA Yasuhito

Founded in 1845 in Glashütte, near Dresden, this prestigious manufacture has inherited and developed a unique German traditional style, distinct from Swiss watchmaking, dedicating itself to the creation of artistic mechanical timepieces.A. Lange & SöhneThe brand has introduced numerous groundbreaking inventions, and since its revival in 1994, it has consistently led the industry in technical innovation.

Many mechanisms that later became popular in the watch industry, such as the "Outsize Date" (commonly known as the Big Date) which displays the date in a large window, and the zero-reset mechanism for precise time setting down to the second, originated here. Maintaining its own pace, the brand remains one step ahead. It is a brand that watch enthusiasts absolutely cannot afford to overlook, and it constantly garners intense attention from all in the watchmaking world.

And in 2012, they have released new models that live up to expectations.

The most noteworthy new release is undoubtedly the most complex model: the "Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar," which combines two intricate complications, a tourbillon and a perpetual calendar. The "Lange 1," the brand's iconic timepiece since the first collection upon its revival in 1994, has captivated watch enthusiasts worldwide. This model, which masterfully integrates a perpetual calendar mechanism while retaining the original design, can be described as "the most understated and elegant" among currently available perpetual calendar watches.

The classic "Grand Lange 1" has also been updated to meet the demand for larger case sizes, now featuring a diameter of 40.9mm, a size slightly larger than the "Lange 1," and a newly developed movement specifically designed for this case, resulting in a slimmer profile. Additionally, the "Datograph," which, like the "Lange 1," has captivated mechanical watch enthusiasts, has evolved into the "Datograph Up/Down." Both are absolute must-see models for Lange fans.

"Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar"
Exquisite mechanics in an understated exterior
A tourbillon escapement that negates the effects of gravity on timekeeping accuracy, and a perpetual calendar that requires no correction until March 1, 2100. This new model combines two highly sought-after complications for watch connoisseurs. The tourbillon escapement features a patented stop-seconds mechanism for precise time setting to the second, while the perpetual calendar incorporates Lange's unique mechanisms and style, including the Outsize Date, a retrograde day display, and a month ring on the dial periphery. The moon phase display is also remarkably precise, requiring correction only once every 122 years. Most impressively, despite the abundance of display elements, the layout avoids interference between them, resulting in a clean and simple aesthetic. In addition to the platinum case model, limited to 100 pieces worldwide as shown, a pink gold case version is also available.

Self-winding, platinum case, crocodile strap, case diameter 41.9mm, sapphire crystal case back, limited to 100 pieces worldwide. ¥29,589,000, scheduled for release from November onwards.

"Grand Lange 1"
Slightly smaller, yet entirely new
The new "Grand Lange 1" model is presented with a case size slightly reduced by 1mm from the previous 41.9mm. While the fundamental dial design established with the "Lange 1" in October 1994—featuring the Outsize Date, sub-dials for hours and minutes, and a small seconds with power reserve indicator—is retained, each element has been enlarged to match the case size, achieving perfect balance. The movement inside has also been newly developed for this case size, a slim movement measuring 4.7mm in thickness. As a result, it achieves a thickness of 8.8mm, making it slimmer than the 38.5mm "Lange 1."

Manual-winding, yellow gold case, crocodile strap, case diameter 40.9mm, sapphire crystal case back. ¥3,234,000, scheduled for release from June onwards.

"Datograph Up/Down"
Perfect aesthetics and extended power reserve
Since its debut in 1999, the "Datograph" has captivated watch enthusiasts as the benchmark for modern mechanical chronographs, with its beautifully refined mechanism. It has now evolved with an increased case size, upgraded specifications, and a refined dial. The 39mm case has been enlarged to 41mm, and along with it, the Outsize Date window has also been enlarged. Not only has its presence increased, but the dial's balance has also been improved, with the date window and the two sub-dials forming a perfect equilateral triangle, resulting in a more captivating appearance. The mainspring barrel has also been enlarged, increasing the power reserve from 24 hours to 60 hours. The "Up/Down" designation refers to the power reserve indicator located at the 6 o'clock position.

Manual-winding, platinum case, crocodile strap, case diameter 41mm, sapphire crystal case back. ¥7,560,000, scheduled for release from May onwards.

A. Lange & Söhne
Tel. 03-3288-6639
http://www.alange-soehne.com/cms/ja/