A. Lange & Söhne is a German luxury watch brand that is one of the top five watch brands in the world. It is a key player in building the German watch industry, and is supported by many watch enthusiasts as a brand with excellent watchmaking techniques, such as beautiful movements and few malfunctions.
This article is aimed at those who want to buy an A. Lange & Söhne watch but don't know how to choose one, so if you're thinking, "I want an A. Lange & Söhne watch," or "It's an expensive purchase so I don't want to make a mistake," be sure to read this article.
Classification of A. Lange & Söhne
*Source: https://www.alange-soehne.com/jp-ja/boutiques/europe/germany/dresden/a-lange-sohne-boutique-dresden
A. Lange & Söhne is roughly divided into two types: "sports models" and "dress models." Although the " sports models" have been driving the price hike in recent years, the "dress models" are actually more popular and have a strong following. First, let's take a look at what types of models are available for each type.
Sports Model
*Source: https://www.rolex.com/ja/world-of-rolex/motor-sports.html
When you think of A. Lange & Söhne, many people may think of "dress models," but in fact, in recent years, they have also begun to produce "sports models." It was thought to be very difficult for a brand that had previously mainly produced "dress models" to suddenly produce a "luxury sports model," commonly known as a "luxury sports" model, but A. Lange & Söhne boasts some of the best technical capabilities in the luxury watch world. The shape and finish of the case and bracelet, the dial design that combines high visibility, and the movement that is comparable to the latest models are all extremely well-made, and the brand has received praise.
Dress model
*Source: https://www.rolex.com/ja/world-of-rolex/the-arts.html
The "dress model" is also known as the "classic model", but the brand offers a wide range of models, from simple designs to multifunctional models that are beautifully made thanks to the golden ratio. Many of the classic models are easy to match with formal occasions such as weddings, funerals, and parties, and create a splendid and elegant atmosphere.
Choose from asset value
First, we will introduce recommended models for those who would like to consider resale value when buying the same luxury watch.
"Odysseus" is a luxury sports model packed with beauty and technology.
*Source: https://masterhorologer.com/2022/04/01/a-lange-sohne-odysseus-titanium-limited-edition/
The Odysseus, a luxury sports model released in 2019 , became a hot topic as it was the first A. Lange & Söhne watch to use stainless steel (SS) material. As shown in the photo, there is also a model that uses titanium (TI), making it a model that embodies A. Lange & Söhne's technical capabilities. The name is derived from the protagonist of the Greek epic poem "The Odyssey," and it shows its high durability that can withstand any harsh journey. The five-link bracelet with smooth link movement is designed to be comfortable even when worn for long periods of time, and it is also waterproof to 120m , making it an attractive item. The Odysseus is the brand's most premium-priced model, so it is recommended for those who value not only design and practicality, but also asset value.
Choose from usage scenarios
Next, we will introduce recommended models for those who want to purchase a phone for business or personal use.
The brand's iconic watch, the Lange 1
*Source: https://www.thewatchindex.com/Dress-Watches/A-Lange-Sohne-Grand-Lange-1
The Lange 1 was released when the brand was rebuilt in 1994. In 2019 , the 25th anniversary model was released, which became a hot topic. The asymmetrical dial is precisely laid out using the golden ratio, and it is highly legible, stylish, and practical. In 2015 , the movement was renewed and evolved into the second generation. It has a unique presence among the many "dress models" available, so it is especially recommended for those who want a watch that is different from others or a watch that only watch lovers can understand.
The orthodox dress watch "Saxonia"
*Source: https://www.watcharena.com/watches/saxonia.html
The Saxonia was released as a reissue collection in 1994 along with the Lange 1. It is an entry-level model within the brand, and while it has the unique features of A. Lange & Söhne, such as German silver parts, a three-quarter plate, and hand engraving on the balance cock, one of its charms is that it is available at an affordable price. There is a wide variety of models available, from classic and simple designs to elaborate designs with outsize dates, chronographs, and moon phases, so it is easy to find a model that suits your taste.
Choose based on brand strengths
Here we will introduce the top-of-the-line models that highlight A. Lange & Söhne's technical expertise.
The world's best chronograph, the Datograph
*Source: https://www.pinterest.jp/pin/sihh-2019-a-lange-shne-datograph-perpetual-tourbillon-pink-goldsalmon-dial-740056-specs-price–343188434103162874/
The Datograph was introduced as a derivative model of the Saxonia, but now has a presence as an independent collection. Its feature is that it is equipped with a multi-function chronograph, also known as the "world's best chronograph." It is equipped with a "precision jumping minute counter," which moves the scale of the counter exactly at the 60 -second position when 60 seconds have passed since the chronograph was activated. A normal chronograph starts to move the scale around 60 seconds, so the accuracy of this movement at exactly 60 seconds is unique. In addition, it is also equipped with a "flyback function," and the dial is clean and well-designed, which is one of the reasons why it has been highly praised. This model is recommended for those who want to experience the excellent watchmaking technology of [ A. Lange & Söhne].
"Zeitwerk" is a fusion of mechanical and digital systems.
*Source: https://masterhorologer.com/2021/10/25/a-lange-sohne-zeitwerk-honeygold-lumen-limited-edition/
The Zeitwerk was released in 2009 and is a mechanical watch with a digital hour and minute display. There have been watches with a similar concept in the past, but the Zeitwerk is the only one that allows you to instantly change the time. The dial has the hour display at 9 o'clock and the minute display at 3 o'clock, and the time is displayed by switching the disc with numbers. It is equipped with a hand-wound movement made up of over 400 parts, and the beautiful movement can be viewed through the see-through back. This model allows you to enjoy both high technical skill and highly original design.
5 Recommended A. Lange & Söhne Watches
From here, taking into account the above information, we will introduce five recommended watches from A. Lange & Söhne.
① "Odysseus" "Ref.363.179"
The brand's first luxury sports model, the Odysseus Ref. 363.179, was released in 2019 and is made of stainless steel.
The three-piece construction of the middle case, bezel, and case back makes this watch waterproof to 120m. The dark blue dial features 18KWG (white gold) hands and indexes, and a large oversized date display at the 3 o'clock position, making it not only stylish but also easy to read. This is the most expensive model in the A. Lange & Söhne collection, and it is an excellent watch not only for its design and functionality, but also for its asset value.
② "A. Lange 1" "Ref. 191.032"
The Lange 1 "Ref. 191.032" underwent a model change in 2015 .
The bezel and lugs are slightly smaller than the previous model, and the design has not changed significantly, but the latest technology is incorporated, such as an evolved movement (a self-made hairspring that places less strain on the body) and an outsize date that allows the date display to be switched instantly. The see-through back allows you to enjoy the three-quarter plate and the beautifully decorated movement, making this a perfect model for expressing the dignity and style of an adult.
3. Saxonia Flach "Ref. 201.027"
The Saxonia "Ref. 210.027" features a simple dial that eliminates all unnecessary elements to the maximum extent possible.
With a case size of 37mm and a thickness of just 5.9mm , this watch is the perfect size for Japanese wrists, and is equipped with the in-house hand-wound movement " Cal.L093.1," which boasts a power reserve of approximately 72 hours, and its beautiful finish can be appreciated from the case back. This is a watch that we highly recommend to those who want to wear it smartly in a suit or on a formal occasion.
④ "Datograph Up/Down" "Ref.405.035"
The Datograph Up / Down (Ref. 405.035) was redesigned in 2012 with the addition of a power reserve display function to the Datograph.
Boasting excellent functionality such as a "flyback chronograph" and a "precision jumping minute counter," this watch also features an "outsize date," "minute counter," and "small second" on the dial, but with a clean finish and excellent visibility. This is a recommended watch for those who want to experience the high level of technical expertise of A. Lange & Söhne.
⑤ "1815" "Ref.206.025"
The " 1815 " "Ref. 206.025" features the brand's signature blue steel hands, Arabic indexes, and railway minutes.
This simple three-hand watch in a platinum case features a classical design reminiscent of old pocket watches. The see-through back allows you to see the traditional engraving on the balance cock and the polished three-quarter plate. This is a model we would recommend to anyone looking for their first dress watch.
summary
What did you think.
A. Lange & Söhne is loved by many watch enthusiasts. The features and designs vary greatly depending on the model, so try to find the one that suits you best from various perspectives such as asset value, usage scenarios, and brand strengths.
If you have any questions about this model, please feel free to contact us.