2024-04-15 05:00:09
On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Datograph Up/Down, A. Lange & Söhne reveals a new edition of this exceptional chronograph during Watches and Wonders 2024, confirming its status as an iconic piece in the world of fine watchmaking.
A story of renewal and innovation
Thirty years ago, the Glashütte watch manufacturer, A. Lange & Söhne, marked the revival of Saxon precision watchmaking with the presentation of four watches equipped with exclusive movements. These included the Lange 1 and the Datograph, a chronograph launched five years later under the direction of Günter Blümlein and Walter Lange, who played a crucial role in the reestablishment of this prestigious brand after German reunification.
- The Datograph is equipped with a column wheel chronograph mechanism, a flyback function and a large date, a first for a mechanical chronograph.
- This piece set new milestones in watchmaking precision upon its introduction at Baselworld in 1999.
In 2012, the model was enriched with a power reserve indicator and a power reserve extended to 60 hours, hence the name Datograph Up/Down.
An iconic design celebrated with a new edition
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Datograph Up/Down, A. Lange & Söhne is offering a new version of this exceptional chronograph. In addition to the platinum/black and rose gold/black case combinations, a new white gold option with blue dial is now available, retaining the original dimensions of 41.0mm x 13.1mm.
- The dial configuration follows precise geometric calculations, forming an equilateral triangle with the large date at 12 o’clock as the apex and the auxiliary counters as the base.
- The subdials of this latest version feature a rhodium tint, standing out elegantly against the dark blue background.
The luminescent hands and stick indexes as well as the tachymeter scale reinforce the readability and refined aesthetic of the model.
Precision and technical perfection
The Datograph Up/Down is powered by the hand-wound caliber L951.6, made up of 451 parts, assembled twice and carefully finished. The quality of finishing, typical of A. Lange & Söhne, is exemplary:
- Particular attention paid to the internal angles of movement components, such as the chronograph clutch rocker.
- Incorporation of untreated German silver bridges and a hand-engraved balance cock.
The chronograph mechanism, visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, demonstrates the complexity and sophisticated architecture of the movement.
Commitment to innovation
Anthony de Haas, Director of Product Development, emphasizes that the Datograph represents not only a technical pinnacle but also a pillar of the A. Lange & Söhne philosophy, aiming to continually explore new avenues in precision watchmaking.
- “Starting 25 years ago, our engineers created a masterpiece that combines sophisticated functions and a well-balanced dial configuration, making the Datograph a symbol of our pursuit of excellence. »
Pricing for the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down is available upon request, reflecting its exclusivity and status as a prized collectible.
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