A. Lange & Söhne: Zeitwerk Honeygold “Lumen”

Presented for the first time in 2010, the “Lumen” series by A. Lange & Söhne has always fascinated us with its luminescent indications through semi-transparent sapphire crystal dials. After the latest model introduced in 2018 “the DATOGRAPH UP / DOWN” A. Lange & Söhne presents the new limited edition ZEITWERK HONEYGOLD “Lumen”.

With its three-disc jumping numerals mechanism that indicates the time in a digital format, the ZEITWERK has ranked among the most progressive mechanical wristwatches since 2009. In the interest of superb legibility at all times, the product developers at A. Lange & Söhne questioned everything except the mechanical paradigm. In addition to two discs for the tens and units-minutes, the jumping numerals mechanism is endowed with a large hour ring that spans almost the entire diameter of the movement. All numerals are identical in size. They switch precisely and read from left to right. 

Two mainspring barrels deliver the power needed for switching. The switching point is controlled by a patented constant-force escapement. It also assures that the balance is always driven with constant power. Refined from the bottom up, the ZEITWERK calibre L043.9 has twice the power reserve of its predecessor model – 72 hours. The pusher at 4 o’clock is new. It allows the hour indication to be switched separately, which in turn makes it simpler to set the time. 

The pioneering technical concept is paired with an equally innovative design. One of its most prominent elements is the curved time bridge that dominates the dial. It is part of the movement and forms a frame for all time indications. In the ZEITWERK HONEYGOLD “Lumen“, it consists of black rhodiumed German silver and thus integrates well with the dark sapphire- crystal dial. 

LUMINOUS NUMERALS

The light-permeable coating of the dial allows the luminous numerals that are not exposed in the aperture to absorb enough UV light and thus light energy needed to make them glow in the dark. Consequently, the digital display remains visible even right after each switching sequence. At night, the numerals discs that are only vaguely discernible during the day cause the watch to glow. 

At A. Lange & Söhne, “Lumen” is the name of a series of timepieces that rely on current scientific insights to deliver a clear design statement. The ZEITWERK “Luminous” presented in 2010 was followed by “Lumen” editions of the GRAND LANGE 1 (2013), the GRAND LANGE 1 MOON PHASE (2016) and the DATOGRAPH UP/DOWN (2018). 

The case, with a diameter of 41.9 millimetres, is made of Lange’s proprietary honey gold – a first for a “Lumen” model. Various admixtures and a special thermal treatment endow the 18-carat gold alloy with extra hardness and an inimitably warm lustre. The hands of the power-reserve indicator and of the subsidiary seconds as well as the Lange prong buckle are made of the same material. The new ZEITWERK HONEYGOLD “Lumen” is combined with dark-brown leather strap and is offered in a limited series of 200 pieces for the price of €.116.900.