A. Lange & Sohne 1815 Anniversary F.A. Lange - Honeygold - Ref. 236.050 - Limited 200 pcs

The Watch 

Lange broaches the subject of special editions with exceptional personal regard. Typically kept to low numbers, with genuine merit, the brand preserves a sense of importance that spark intrigue with their special editions as few other watchmakers can. Regular enough to maintain interest, yet not too often as to lose their spark, special edition Lange references are significant. And in 2015, on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Ferdinand Lange, one of the most understated yet desirable editions of the 1815 arrived – the 1815 in Honeygold, reference 236.050.

Pictures rarely tell the whole story, as although the sheer sophistication of this reference is indisputable, it can be challenging to place the shade of the proprietary gold alloy. Not quite a full pink gold, yellow gold, nor white, the tone of Honeygold is somewhat mysterious. In some lighting conditions, it appears close to white gold, in others, it carries a slight yellowed or rosy tint. The precise composition remains a secret hidden behind Lange doors, but one thing is sure, this 18k gold alloy is tough, measuring around 300 Vickers and therefore not an easy or inexpensive alloy to work with. In comparison, 18k rose, yellow, and white gold scores 140, 155, 210 HV, respectively. For context, stainless steel sits around 200-250 HV making the practicalities of this Honeygold dress watch remarkably impressive. Also of note is the specific number of this piece, carrying the number 002 out of only 200 pieces created in 2015, making it one of the earliest examples to be produced. And while the metal and numbered edition are both unusual, at 40mm, the exterior contains definite Lange hallmarks. The notched lugs in a polished finish with accompanying beveling and a gentle downturn perfectly contrast the rounded profile of its bezel. It's a sight dominated by skilful construction, creating a charming yet simplistic presence made all the sweeter by Honeygold.

A rigid dichotomy between convention and the unusual, the instantly recognisable 1815 elements integrate tastefully with its dial texture. The bold Arabic numerals are a must, and their black printed realisation produces handsome contrast. Another 1815 classic, the elegant railroad track hugs the periphery and frames the silver dial that's realised in an extremely evocative eggshell tone and paired with a granular texture. The hour, minute and second hands are seen here in their classic Alpha-style shape and are forged from gold.

It's only fitting we acknowledge how few watchmakers are as complete as A.Lange & Söhne. Movement manufacture, an innovator in complications, and a leader in precise German design balanced with sheer industrial elegance. the 1815 Honeygold is the best of modern Lange with the soul of its founding father. 

The Movement

Powering this 1815 reference 236.050 is the calibre L051.1 by A.Lange & Söhne. This small seconds calibre has been in production since 2009, carrying a power reserve of 55 hours, features 21 jewels, and is decorated to the brand's exacting standards. Its unmistakable German silver hue is coupled with a swan-neck regulator, an exquisitely hand-engraved balance bridge, and the iconic Glashütte stripes adorning the ¾ bridge are visible through the sapphire caseback.

How It Wears

The 1815 is a proportionate master. On paper, it delivers a sweet spot in width, height and length; in person, these measurements translate effortlessly. The prominent lugs confirm the unequivocal Lange design language with the bonus of wrist-hugging properties. But here, it's all about the Honeygold hue and its nuanced dial details. A true chameleon in its appearance, this precious metal dress watch is one tailormade for regular, worry-free wear; and it's all down to the oh-so-charming Honeygold. It's a sweet alloy that's just as marvellous as the first glance at a Datograph calibre, and due to its tougher attributes, scratches and dints shouldn't be as much of a concern when directly compared to other gold watches. Already with a striking personality, its soft creamy dial lifts the entire watch on the wrist to complete this extraordinary, low-numbered limited edition from one of the leaders of 21st-century watchmaking.

Condition

This A.Lange & Söhne 1815 Honey Gold reference 236.050 is in pristine almost unworn condition. Complete as a full set with its Lange wooden box, and papers. The watch is fitted to its original strap, which has never been removed. As such, the Honeygold pin buckle also remains. The watch is number 002/200.

Origin

The 1815 was the second act in A.Lange & Söhne's re-entry into watchmaking during the mid-1990s.Triumphs such as the Lange 1 and Saxonia debuted at their re-launch twelve months prior, and the need for a worthy follow-up that could maintain momentum with conviction was essential. Walter Lange and Günter Blümlein decided authenticity was necessary, so the custodians responsible for Lange's success took it back to day one.

The year was 1815, and Mr Ferdinand Adolph Lange was born in Dresden, Germany. When he reached 30, he founded a watch company called A. Lange & Cie, which later became A. Lange & Söhne. At the time, he focused on building best-in-show pocket watches, often highly complex and ornately finished pieces with defining visual characteristics: charming King Louis XIV hands, striking numerals, and black typeface. Fast forward some 147 years, and in 1995, his great-grandson announces the 1815, a watch created with the spirit of those early pocket watches in mind, its name bearing the birth year of its founder. The 1815 series has blossomed within the brand's lineup, cementing itself as a cornerstone model. The series has also adopted a plethora of complications and design nuances while preserving the core tenets outlined in the 19th century. First released as a time-only reference before a chronograph in 2004, a tourbillon in 2014 (although it's thought the Tourbillon Pour le Mérite of 1994 was essentially the 1815 in disguise), and an annual calendar in 2017. It's become one of the unassuming greats—pure Lange.

Many watch manufacturers develop alloys for use in their cases. Often times they're proprietary takes on popular metals such as steel, yellow gold, or rose gold, but in the case of Lange and their appropriately named Honeygold, the alloy has a distinctive golden hue that's difficult to categorise. Appearing yellow gold, pink gold, and white gold depending on lighting, this fascinating metal is often perplexing. The composition used for Honeygold remains unknown, and a sparing deployment of the metal since its debut in 2010 aids the appeal of this visually unique and notably strong precious metal. Reserved for low-numbered celebratory editions of important series, Honeygold models represent rare jewels.

If you desire to take a closer look at this precious timepiece, don't hesitate to contact us and make an appointment. We are based in Ghent, Belgium

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