A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 Moonphase - Limited 30 pcs - Ref. 109.049

The Watch

They say you shouldn't mess with perfection, but if Lange's idea of this is integrating a moonphase complication as beautifully as they did for this particular reference, then we say leave them to it. The reference is 109.049, the case metal is 18k white gold, and it's limited to 30 pieces. All 30 pieces were initially created exclusively for the Italian market. As this section of collectors is frequently credited for birthing the concept of watch collecting, it's only right they received first and exclusive dibs on this elevated piece of watchmaking brilliance.

Despite the rarity of this reference, this Lange 1 Moonphase begins like any good A.Lange & Söhne watch, with a well-defined, strong case form. The notched lugs have a polished finish with a gentle downturn, a contrasting brushed case body, the rounded bezel, and its subtly squared-off date advancer pusher are all unmistakably Lange. It's a sight dominated by masterful craft, forming a confident, straightforward presence.

White gold cases always possess that unexplainable allure, and while the same can be said for a Lange 1 dial, the beauty of this considered arrangement is accentuated by the addition of the moonphase complication nestled perfectly within the subsidiary seconds register. A ring of 18ct white gold entirely surrounds this sunken seconds register – a design feature not found on other Lange 1 references – which elegantly pairs with the framing of the double-digit date aperture.

Most of the time-telling functionality is located at the traditional ten o'clock position, with the hours and minutes read through blued alpha hands. Most notable is the lack of luminescence here, a decision connoisseurs of the traditional Lange 1 will appreciate. These elements adorn the pure white dial, culminating in an overall watch that harnesses tried-and-tested execution with technical proficiency.

This 109.049 may be the ultimate embodiment of what A. Lange & Söhne stands for delivering a slice of traditional watchmaking artistry in an exclusive, highly considered fashion.

The Movement

The manual calibre L901.5 powers this Lange 1 Moonphase, and its execution is just as much of a brand signature as its golden ratio-abiding dial. The ¾ plate is made from untreated German silver, an alloy containing copper, nickel and zinc. This plays with the light in a unique way and, over time, will develop a gentle patina. Gold chatons, blued screws, 54 jewels, a twin mainspring barrel, and a highly decorated hand-engraved balance cock with a swan neck regulator can be viewed through the display caseback of this Lange. Paired with its chamfered angles, Glashütte striping, and 72 hours of autonomy, this calibre has an attention to detail second to none. 

How It Wears

There's an aura to Lange. Like many top watchmakers, their creations feel almost unexplainably special and noteworthy, whether it's a Saxonia or the Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Honeygold 'Lumen'. The Lange 1 is one piece that embodies this the most, as historical significance meets industry-defining finishing and world-class design. With the addition of the moonphase and ultra-limited nature of this white gold 38.5mm reference, the wrist presence is complemented by the flourishes of blue from the moonphase and hands—a true show-stopper.

Condition

This A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Moonphase reference 109.049 is presented in very good condition, the watch is sold with its original box, papers, manual, ALS pin pusher as well as the original A. Lange & Söhne strap and pin buckle.

Origin

Complications have been a pillar of A. Lange & Söhne since its reincarnation in 1994. Günter Blümlein and Walter Lange announced their return with four watch models: the Tourbillon Pour le Mérite, Saxonia, Arkade, and the Lange 1. Each model would shape the next 30 years of operation for the Glashütte-based manufacturer as they all – minus the Arkade – matured and inherited numerous complications. Chronographs, perpetual calendars, tourbillons, and moon phases permeate through Lange. However, the moonphase ties with the tourbillon in the romance department.

In the early 2000s, Lange introduced a moonphase to their most widely recognisable launch model, the Lange 1. The Dresden Semper Opera House clock inspires the double-digit date execution, the dial layout is satisfyingly logical albeit curious, and the model embodies A.Lange & Söhne's approach to design and craftsmanship. The charm of this unconventional watch starts so deeply at the core of its foundation that the reliance on additional adornment, nuance, or even complications isn't necessary. But this is Lange, and they have always embraced the challenge of evolution. The Lange 1 was the most inquisitive of the initial four models, with its nonconformist personality and memorable visual language. Its golden ratio-abiding dial layout challenged how the time and date could be displayed on the wrist, swiftly becoming a celebrated trailblazer. The introduction of the moon phase complication saw Lange maintain the crucial elements that made it so special, placing the moonphase perfectly within the off-centre subsidiary seconds register. Lange also has a reputation for producing remarkable editions for specific markets around the world, including the Lange 1 Moonphase. Produced exclusively for the Italian market, this Lange 1 reference 109.049 was a limited edition run of just 30 watches, as its white gold case and pure white dial coupled perfectly with the loyal following the brand has – understandably, examples seldom come up for sale.