A. Lange & Söhne: Lange 1 “30th Anniversary”

Its characteristic dial with the off-centre dial configuration and the typical Lange outsize date, the LANGE 1 has embodied the soul of A. Lange & Söhne since 24 October 1994. To mark its 30th anniversary, the Maison introduces two new model versions of the LANGE 1, each limited to 300 watches: one in platinum featuring a black onyx dial, and a pink gold version with a blue dial. The LITTLE LANGE 1 is also available in both new colour combinations, each limited to 150 watches. 

 “The LANGE 1 is a timepiece that unites everything that distinguishes a refined mechanical watch: originality, timeless elegance and horological precision, down to the last detail,” explains Wilhelm Schmid, A. Lange & Söhne CEO. “When it was launched thirty years ago, it broke the existing design rules and defined its very own style. This innovative force is embodied our ambition to never stand still.”  

THE UNMISTAKABLE DESIGN OF THE LANGE 1 

The particular dial design accounts for the balanced appearance of the LANGE 1. Graced with Roman numerals and lancet-shaped appliques, the hour and minute circle is located on the left- hand side whilst the outsize date, the power-reserve display and the subsidiary seconds dial are positioned on the right-hand side, along an imaginary vertical axis. The length and size ratios of the various displays are in accordance with the rules of the golden ratio, creating an aesthetic balance that exudes timelessness, even three decades after its debut. 

PLATINUM AND PINK GOLD

The new model versions of the LANGE 1 and the LITTLE LANGE 1 radiate festive elegance – as befits the anniversary. The watch in 950 platinum showcases a dial faced with onyx. This gemstone, which is rarely used in fine watchmaking, captivates with its jet-black shimmering surface: it is the first time that it adorns a LANGE 1 model. In the 750 pink-gold version, the warm, reddish lustre of the precious metal is paired with a blue dial in 925 silver. The case diameter of the LANGE 1 amounts to 38.5 millimetres and to 36.8 millimetres in the LITTLE LANGE 1. 

THE L121.1 IN-HOUSE CALIBRE 

The L121.1 manufacture calibre breathes life into the LANGE 1 and the LITTLE LANGE 1 – the 50th manufacture movement was introduced in 2015. It ensures that the instantaneously advancing outsize date switches at midnight: it is endowed with a going train featuring a balance with eccentric poising weights and a proprietary freely oscillating balance spring. The twin mainspring barrel assures a power reserve of 72 hours.

At a glance through the sapphire-crystal caseback, the artisanal finish of the movement comes to the fore, among which the three-quarter plate made of untreated German silver and decorated with Glashütte ribbing. Eight screwed gold chatons held by blued screws provide colourful contrasting accents. 

“Thirty years ago, A. Lange & Söhne succeeded in designing a mechanical work of art with the LANGE 1 that established new benchmarks in precision watchmaking,” explains Anthony de Haas, Director of Product Development. “Developed out of the passion to do things differently, it has since been a symbol of our manufacture’s self-conception to craft timepieces that combine superb functionality with aesthetic appeal.”