A. Lange & Söhne, the renowned watch manufacturer from Glashütte, Germany, attracts watch lovers and collectors from all over the world with its exquisite timepieces. The brand is known for exceptional craftsmanship, innovative technology, and timeless elegance. We’re taking a closer look at the brand, its history, and above all, its highlights.
The History of A. Lange & Söhne Watches
A. Lange & Söhne has a rich history dating back to 1845. That’s when Ferdinand Adolph Lange founded the company in Glashütte, Saxony. This was an economically significant step, supported by a loan from the Saxon Ministry of the Interior. In doing so, Lange laid the foundation for Saxon precision timepieces and established Glashütte as the center of German watchmaking. Under the leadership of Lange’s sons, Richard and Emil, the brand gained an international reputation. A. Lange & Söhne’s luxurious pocket watches were exported all over the world and set new standards in the industry. Richard Lange’s scientific research and numerous patents have contributed to the advancement of watchmaking. However, the Second World War marked a turning point, and in 1948 the factory was expropriated and nationalized by the Soviet occupying power. The name A. Lange & Söhne was almost forgotten – almost. Walter Lange, the great-grandson of the company founder, dared to revive the brand in 1990 after the fall of the Berlin Wall. With the support of LMH Holding, they worked to breathe new life into the brand, and in 1994 the company presented its first collection after the relaunch, including the iconic Lange 1 with its signature large date complication. It was clear at first glance: These watches once again set new standards in precision and design. Even today, A. Lange & Söhne only manufactures a few thousand watches a year from precious materials such as gold and platinum, with each movement being elaborately decorated and assembled by hand. Just as in 1845, the company is committed to values such as innovation and excellence – and thanks to its craftsmanship, it has always been a symbol of German precision and luxury at the highest level.
Notable Models & Collections
Since its founding, A. Lange & Söhne has created an impressive range of timepieces, among which several models and collections stand out.
- Lange 1: Introduced in 1994, the Lange 1 quickly became the brand’s flagship model. With its distinctive asymmetrical dial, patented large date and decentralized time display, it sets new standards in design and technology. The timepiece is powered by the in-house caliber L121.1 with a 72-hour power reserve.
- Saxonia: Versatility is the hallmark of this collection. From the simple, ultra-thin Saxonia Thin, to the complex Lange 31 with an impressive 31-day power reserve, to chronographs with split-seconds hands, there’s something for everyone.
- ZEITWERK: Launched in 2009, the ZEITWERK collection revolutionized the display of time with its digital hours and minutes. This unconventional approach puts the innovative strength of A. Lange & Söhne on full display.
- 1815: Named for the year of birth of company founder Ferdinand Adolph Lange, the 1815 combines classic design with state-of-the-art technology. The highlight of this line is undoubtedly the Grand Complication, one of the most complex and expensive wristwatches in the world, with a perpetual calendar, rattrapante chronograph, and grande sonnerie.
- Odysseus: Launched in 2019, this collection represents a milestone in the brand’s history as the manufacturer’s first line of sporty and elegant watches. The line is characterized by a combination of traditional watchmaking, and modern, robust design.
Designs & Technical Expertise
A. Lange & Söhne is known for its complex complications such as tourbillons, perpetual calendars, and rattrapante chronographs. Reflecting the brand’s technical excellence, these timepieces are among the finest in watchmaking. The development of in-house movements always takes center stage, and is a central component of A. Lange & Söhne’s philosophy. Each movement is designed, manufactured, and finished by hand in the company’s own watchmaking workshop, guaranteeing the highest precision and quality. At the same time, A. Lange & Söhne continues to surprise watch fans with technical innovations like the Triple Split Chronograph, the first chronograph capable of measuring split times of up to twelve hours. The design of A. Lange & Söhne watches is just as outstanding as their technology. These timepieces are characterized by clean lines, harmonious proportions, and timeless aesthetics. Attention is also paid to details such as blued screws, gold chatons, and hand-engraved balance cocks. These details create a masterful look that underscores the brand’s impeccable craftsmanship.
Who wears A. Lange & Söhne watches?
A. Lange & Söhne is for watch lovers who appreciate exclusivity and technical perfection, but who also love understatement. Connoisseurs who prize complications like tourbillons and perpetual calendars adore watches from this brand. Discerning buyers go for the iconic Lange 1 with its asymmetrical dial and distinctive large date display – the signature model and a piece of watchmaking history on the wrist. But collectors will get their money’s worth as well: some specimens are very limited and therefore rare. Famous wearers of the brand come from all walks of life. Perhaps the most famous is former U.S. President Bill Clinton, who owns a Lange 1. But even Hollywood stars cannot resist the charm of the brand. Just ask Brad Pitt or Daniel Craig, both of whom have been spotted wearing watches from A. Lange & Söhne on several occasions. Last but not least, fashion icons such as Ralph Lauren and Karl Lagerfeld have sworn by A. Lange & Söhne – and are the best proof that A. Lange & Söhne watches are also stylistic masterpieces.
Why are A. Lange & Söhne watches so popular?
In addition to perfect craftsmanship and the quest for continual innovation, there are other factors that make A. Lange & Söhne so sought-after by watch collectors and enthusiasts. A. Lange & Söhne’s annual production figures are comparatively low, which makes the watches particularly exclusive. Furthermore, some A. Lange & Söhne models have proven to be a stable investment. As a result, the first generation of the Lange 1 has experienced a significant increase in value, making it attractive to collectors. But above all, it is the combination of tradition and modernity that is the source of our fascination. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the brand’s successful relaunch embodies rebirth in new, old splendor. All these factors make A. Lange & Söhne the first choice for collectors who want to invest not only in a piece of German watchmaking art, but also in a watch of lasting value and timeless elegance.
