For thirty years, A. Lange & Söhne’s Lange 1 has epitomized the spirit of precision watchmaking, blending distinctive design with sophisticated mechanics. As the brand commemorates the anniversary of this horological icon, it introduces two new limited-edition versions of the Lange 1 in platinum and pink gold.

The first, in 950 platinum, features a striking black onyx dial, while in contrast, the second version in pink gold pairs the warm tones of the precious metal with a blue dial in 925 silver, offering a more vibrant and celebratory look.

The Lange 1 Legacy: Defining a New Aesthetic

Since its introduction on October 24, 1994, the Lange 1 has challenged traditional watch design by breaking the conventional impression of a watch dials’ configuration. The defining feature of the Lange 1 is its asymmetrical dial layout, with an off-center hour and minute circle on the left, juxtaposed by the outsize date, power-reserve display, and subsidiary seconds dial on the right. As any fervent collector would tell you — such as this one here who regaled the tale of his “perfect Lange 1” i.e. a 1994 launch piece in yellow gold on a Wellendorf bracelet — the timepiece’s dial design alone has an aesthetic harmony that remains as captivating today as it was 30 years ago. 

In the words of Wilhelm Schmid, CEO of A. Lange & Söhne, “The Lange 1 unites everything that distinguishes a refined mechanical watch: originality, timeless elegance, and horological precision.” 

The new two editions maintain the iconic design elements of the Lange 1, with slender bezels, prominent lugs, and a balanced case diameter of 38.5mm. Alongside the Lange 1, the Little Lange 1 also receives a new makeover, featuring the same color combinations but in a smaller, more delicate 36.8mm case. Both versions of the Little Lange 1 are limited to 150 pieces each.

Within these two models lies in the L121.1 manufacture caliber, A. Lange & Söhne’s 50th in-house movement, first introduced in 2015. Among its prominent features is the brand’s signature outsize date, which switches instantaneously at midnight. The precision of this mechanism is driven by a balance with eccentric poising weights and a proprietary, freely oscillating balance spring. The movement boasts a robust power reserve of 72 hours, supported by a twin mainspring barrel.

Through the sapphire-crystal caseback, the three-quarter plate, crafted from untreated German silver, is adorned with the Glashütte ribbing, a hallmark of A. Lange & Söhne’s finishing. 

As A. Lange & Söhne looks to the future, the legacy of the Lange 1 continues to inspire the brand’s watchmakers and engineers to push boundaries. Anthony de Haas, Director of Product Development, reflects on this spirit: “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.”

Tech Specs: A. Lange & Söhne “30th Anniversary” Lange 1 and Little Lange 1

Movement: Manual-winding Lange manufacture caliber L121.1; 72-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; small seconds; power-reserve indicator; outsize date
Case: 38.5mm (10mm in thickness for platinum; 9.8mm in thickness for rose gold); 36.8mm (9.98mm in thickness for platinum; 9.5mm in thickness for rose gold)
Dial: Black onyx (platinum) or blue (rose gold)
Strap: Alligator leather in black or blue
Availability: 300 pieces for each Lange 1 model
Price: Upon request