BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
To provide some necessary context about the release of these new A. Lange & Söhne watches, it would be pertinent to look back at the iconic Lange 1 watch that was first introduced in 1994. It has naturally undergone various iterations over the years, and since 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of Lange 1, A. Lange & Söhne has commemorated such a historic milestone with the release of two limited edition models of it, namely Lange 1 and LITTLE LANGE 1. The four limited edition models are available in platinum and pink gold.
The Lange 1 is a bit bigger at 38.5 x 10.0mm than the Little Lange 1, which is true to its name, and it sizes at 36.8 x 9.98mm. All watches are made in either shiny platinum or warm pink gold, depending on the version. They have a thin case and look elegant and classic. Also contributing to this look are the elegantly polished finishes and a slim bezel, giving the watches a refined and timeless look.
Lange 1, of course, retains its iconic off-center dial configuration along with the typical Lange outsize date as well. All of this is engineered on a black onyx platform in the 950 platinum model, a first for Lange 1. It also gives these a sleek, dark appearance. The pink gold model, on the other hand, pairs a warm tone with an excellent blue 925 silver dial. The power reserve indicator and small seconds display are also signature Lange 1 features. The dial is finished with Roman numerals and slender, lancet-shaped appliques. The way everything is laid out on the dial follows this golden ratio idea, which means the sizes and spacing feel balanced and pleasing to the eye. It still looks just as good now as it did when the watch first came out almost 30 years ago.
Both models are driven by the beautifully hand-finished manual wind Calibre L121.1, which also has the traditional Glashütte ribbing visible through the sapphire crystal case back; it offers a 72-hour power reserve.
Hand-stitched alligator leather straps in black or blue both adorn and secure the watch on one’s wrist, depending on the version. Lange 1 models each limited to 300 pieces, and Little Lange 1 models each limited to 150 pieces.
References:
191.062 – Lange 1 onyx – EUR 60,000
191.063 – Lange 1 blue – EUR 50,300
181.062 – Little Lange 1 onyx – EUR 56,500
181.063 – Little Lange 1 blue – EUR 46,400
