A. Lange & Söhne 20th Anniversary Platinum set - "Death star" Ref. 101.062 - 811.062

Origin

The Lange 1 is widely regarded as the singular model that greatly captures A. Lange & Söhne's principles as a Teutonic watchmaker. With its characterful double date aperture that's inspired by Dresden's Semper Opera House, unorthodox dial design that abides by the mathematics of the golden ratio fused with a fit and finish any legacy watchmaker would be proud of. When the Lange 1 was introduced in 1994, it's fair to say it didn't go unnoticed. Alongside three other inaugural releases for their re-launch by Walter Lange, the Lange 1 went an incredibly long way to define the brand's approach to horology. A traditionally executed idea combined with novel takes on the Germanic style and a product-first attitude ensured Walter Lange's efforts would make his great grandfather, the founder of Lange in 1845, proud. All types of Lange 1 models have maintained a certain level of affection and allure from collectors around the world, but it's the earliest references, alongside the low-numbered special edition releases, that represent the pinnacle of a Lange 1 connoisseur's collection. 

On the 20th birthday of this influential creation, A. Lange & Söhne released five pairs of special edition models consisting of a Lange 1 and a 'Kleine' (meaning small in German) Lange 1. Each set was limited to 20 pairs and was offered in various case materials, including platinum, white gold, and pink gold. Furthermore, each Little Lange 1 is fitted with a bezel set with 64 brilliant-cut diamonds. But the dials fitted to these pieces truly excel due to their solid gold hand-crafted guilloché work. Although the Lange 1A – 112.021 from 1998 was the first Lange 1 reference to have a guilloché dial, the 20th-anniversary models arguably are the most beautiful realisations as they're presented in black, blue, argenté and rhodié. Despite these special edition pieces being created and released in 2014, they're powered by first-generation calibres, the 1994 Lange L901.0 — a move which comprehensively honours the 20th anniversary of a game-changing timepiece. Therefore, the anniversary set is the final collection of Lange 1 models to carry the 101 reference number before the watchmaker shifted the series to the 191 references. 

Naturally, these are rare and highly exclusive sets with only a finite produced - to say they seldom come to market would be an understatement. The collection has a genuine connection to original Lange 1 watches combined with present-day techniques meaning each set is immensely desirable and collectable. For admirers of A. Lange & Söhne, it doesn't get much better than the anniversary sets, as they pragmatically deliver the beauty of the original Lange 1 with authenticity and desire.

The Watches

This particular offering is an outstanding example of the rare platinum anniversary set, including the Lange 1 reference 101.062 and the Kleine Lange 1 reference 811.062. Some of the most sought-after Lange 1 models are those fitted with black dials — these examples have widely become affectionately known as the 'Darth'. However, the platinum anniversary set is arguably the next level of Darth models with not only its black colour but also its gorgeous guilloché detailing. For many, these are the pinnacle of the Lange 1, and in a similar vein to the Darth. Appropriately, we’ve come to refer to it as “The Death Star.”

It was a collector friend who first suggested the name “The Death Star,” and honestly, it couldn’t be more fitting.

The reference 101.062 is generally recognised as the quintessential Lange 1 platform of the two due to its conventional case proportions and classic execution. The watch measures 38.5mm in width and features the signature notched lugs in a polished finish with accompanying beveling and a gentle downturn. The solid platinum case is skillfully constructed with an overriding air of simplicity. A rounded bezel directly plays into the hands of wearability and dynamic elegance. Simply put, this is an archetypal Lange 1 exterior, from its tasteful dimensions to its understated beauty.

The dial of a Lange 1 is always the sweetheart of the timepiece, and with this covert esque example, it's no different. Crafted from solid gold, asymmetrical, and de-centralised, the dial is embellished with ornate hand-crafted guilloché patterns that honour each function's harmonious nature and purposeful placement. Blending a barley guilloché pattern for the base with a guilloché present in the time-telling dials, this addition of depth and illustrious refinement accentuates the sophistication of the Lange 1's personality. Nevertheless, despite its traditional techniques, the watch's personality is hugely dictated by its superior stealthy dial colour. Comprising of quarter Roman applied numerals, multi-faceted Alpha hands, diamond hour markers, and a robust framing for its matching black double date aperture, the dial furniture matches the white metal exterior to create a monochromatic yet nuanced appearance. Likewise, the running seconds hand and the power reserve indicator match to conclude this piece's colour palette. The dial is finished further with the A.Lange & Söhne arcing signature along with 'Glashütte i/SA' ('in Saxony') underneath, and the readings for the power reserve and 'Doppelfederhaus', which references the twin-barrel set-up of the movement.

Making up the other half of this set is the smaller reference known as the Kleine Lange 1 reference 811.062. Despite the core functionality remaining the same as its larger partner, this Kleine Lange 1 differs substantially with its visuals due, for the most part, to its diamond-set bezel. Totally 64 brilliant-cut VVS diamonds, by swapping out the rounded bezel of the 38.5mm Lange 1, this petite example is entirely transformed with elevated glamour and extra flamboyance. Regardless, thanks to its mid-sized case width, and sleek dial colour, the watch remains refined and sophisticated. Furthermore, the bezel change also impacts the perception of the dial as it shifts, giving it a more prominent presence on the wrist.

On the contrary, Its dial features and furniture are an exact match to the 38.5mm 101.062. Many watches relentlessly pursue visual balance, purity, and excellence, often harnessing symmetrical dials. The Lange 1, on the other hand, favours an asymmetrical geometric approach which remarkably still produces the same, if not better, results. This complete pair of anniversary Lange 1s demonstrate peak rarity and represent a significant moment in the model's lineage with extra chicness throughout.

The Movement

Powering both the Lange 1 101.062 and the Kleine Lange 1 811.062 is the A. Lange & Söhne caliber L901.0. This movement is yet another way this collection sets itself apart. This is the first series movement used in the Lange 1, which originates from 1994, meaning this collection is a blend of traditional Lange with modern-day technology. The 90 element of the calibre's name references the year in which the movement was first sketched (1990) - as such, expect to find lots of charm. Characterised by its ¾ plate produced in German silver, it features gold chatons, blued screws, 53 jewels, 72 hours of autonomy due to its twin mainspring barrels, and a highly decorated, hand-engraved balance cock with a swan neck regulator. Moreover, the limited nature of these watches is denoted on the movement's balance cock with the hand-engraving of "20". 

How They Wear

Even the most conventional Lange 1 references have a unique presence once fitted to the wrist. With their favourable dimensions, and incomparable design IQ, every day the Lange 1 is on the wrist, it feels like a poignant occasion. The platinum anniversary set takes the model's speciality to new lofty heights. The gold dials finished in black with detailed and precise guilloché work provide sleekness, but thanks to its heavyweight case material, its importance is a visceral experience that's physically felt. The 101.062 and its 38.5mm case width will certainly be the reference most will gravitate towards, but the Kleine Lange 1 should by no means be overlooked. In fact, when the Little Lange 1 debuted in 1998, it wasn't marketed solely as a women's watch but rather as an example for smaller wrists. Proportionally, both references are supremely balanced for their respective case sizes, with each aspect feeling appropriate, tasteful and, as always with Lange, special. 

Condition & set 

This A. Lange & Söhne 20th Anniversary Platinum Set "The Death Star" is presented as a complete full set. This includes the special anniversary twin watch box and the original alligator straps for both watches. The watches themselves remain in excellent, barely worn and as new condition. Both watches are fitted with Mr Watchley Grained Grey watch straps.

* Every watch is delivered in a Mr WATCHLEY Membrane Protection Box for a safe transportation in addition to its original set * 

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

Reference	101.062 - 811.062
Movement	Manual Wound
Caliber	Calibre L901.0
Dial	Black Guilloché
Size (Case)	38,5mm - 36mm
Material (Case)	Platinum
Bracelet	Mr WATCHLEY
Buckle	ALS Platinum
Condition	Excellent
Year	2014
Papers	Yes
Box	Yes
Warranty	2 years