A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1A - Ref. 112.021
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Origin
The brand A. Lange & Söhne made a comeback in 1990 after a 50 year absence. This was thanks to the incredible efforts of Walter Lange and Gunter Blümlein. In a period of just 4 years they managed to create four new models, which were released for the world 24st October 1994. The collection consisted of the Lange 1, Tourbillon Pour Le Merité, Saxonia, and Arkade. Out of the four models, the Lange 1 stoud out. The design was different, distinctive, and attractive. The asymmetrical dial was a breath of fresh air that was quickly appreciated by a lot of watch enthusiasts.
Over the years, the collection of the Lange 1 grew bigger thanks to the use of different metals and dial combinations. The 112.021 was a limited run of one hundred pieces and was made launched in 1999 to celebrate the opening of a new building named the Lange 1A. It was the first limited edition of the Lange 1, and the second limited edition of the brand overall.
Apart from being only the second limited edition of the brand overall, it was the first ever model that A. Lange & Söhne made a guilloché dial for, as well as the first solid gold dial used for a watch of the brand. Safe to say, the dial on this watch represents an important part and moment in the history of this incredible German brand.
Combining the yellow gold case with the yellow gold guilloché dial this timepiece certainly makes a statement on the wrist. Something which is not normally Lange, as one of their core concepts and standing pillars across all models is ‘understatement’. It is all about watches not being too loud and being able to fly under the radar of people with general or no interest in watches. This specific model is quite the opposite to say the least. Although the 112.021 makes a certain statement on the wrist, the watch is something that should be admired by anyone who has the chance. It is a truly amazing piece of art.
The watch
The yellow gold case of the 112.021 is typically Lange 1. Being built on three levels; case back, case band and bezel, this 38.5mm case is classic A. Lange & Söhne. Apart from the brushed finish on the case band, the case is fully polished.
An important detail that can be noticed across all Lange models is found at the lugs. A small notch can be seen between the case and the beginning of the lugs. Contrary to Swiss watches, the lugs do not flow through the case but are rather soldered on afterwards for a unique finish. This feature was designed by Gunter Blumlein himself in order to stand out from the Swiss watches being manufactured.
The pusher found at 10 o’clock helps to change the date, which is indicated thanks to the large date windows at 1 o’clock. Just like the case, the pusher is finished with a brushed finish at the side and is polished at the top and bottom.
As mentioned before, this is the first ever limited edition by A. Lange & Söhne for the Lange 1 model. Making it more unique is that everything about the case, dial, date wheel, hour and minute hands is made from solid 18K yellow gold, except for the blued steel seconds hand. On this specific model of the 112.021, a blued seconds hand is applied, which contrasts beautifully with the rest of the dial and case. But not all models are fitted with a blued seconds hand, some of the limited 100 pieces are fitted with a yellow gold seconds hand. There is no known reason on why some pieces are fitted with different second hands or how many are fitted with each particular hand, but it is certainly a detail every watch enthusiast can get excited about.
The guilloché yellow gold dial was made via a CNC machine. Across the dial a radiant guilloché can be admired, while from the center of each area a burst guilloché is applied to the dial. A small, yet important detail is the yellow gold date disc with black numerals. Thanks to this, the unique yellow gold look of the watch is completely present.
The brand A. Lange & Söhne introduced a specific case numbering for the limited run. The cases of the 112.021 are marked with a number between 117.400 and 117.500. If the limited number of the watch is 22/100 for example, then the watch case will be 117.422. The movement will also be specifically numbered to the limited run of the timepiece.
The movement
It is safe to say that the Lange presented here is a rare bird, proven by the previously mentioned characteristics and historical importance of the watch. But the movement is something to behold as well. Powering the 112.021 is the Caliber L901.1. This movement is based on the L901.0 featured in many pieces such as the 101.030 and 101.031 for example. It has a 72 hour power-reserve thanks to the double barrels, the movement vibrates at 21,600 vph or 3 Hz, and has no less than 53 jewels to maintain its performance. Reading these specs, the L901.0 and L901.1 are exactly the same, but the latter differentiates itself from its predecessor thanks to the extra use of precious metal in the movement.
The balance and escape wheel cocks are normally made from German silver in Lange movements, but to complement the all gold look of the 112.021 the balance and escape wheel cocks in caliber L901.1 are made from solid gold. The solid gold cocks are beautifully hand engraved and visually stunning. The rest of the movement is also a pleasure to look at, refined interior angles and chamfering with a level of hand finishing that puts many of the Swiss to shame. The ¾ baseplate is engraved with a Cotes de Geneve finish to complete the overall look of this stunning movement with an incredible harmony of colours.
The L901.1 is an even more admirable movement than the L901.0 and arguably the best L901 caliber ever made.
As previously mentioned, the movement will also be specifically numbered according to the limited number of the example. The movements are numbered between 7.400 and 7.500.
How it wears
The A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1A Ref. 112.021 measures, just like other Lange 1’s, 38,5 mm in diameter. This particular model is ever so slightly thicker than other Lange 1 models due to the use of a golden dial. Following this, the timepiece measures 0,2 mm thicker at 10 mm. Despite this slight change, the Lange 1A wears beautifully on the wrist, with its 38,5 mm diameter it is a perfect fit for almost every wrist. Thanks to the solid 18K yellow gold case, there is a noticeable heftiness to the watch which results in a welcomed feel when put on the wrist.
Set & Condition
This timepiece is accompanied by an attractive full set. The set includes; outer box, inner box, papers, original strap, original buckle. The watch itself is in immaculate condition and it comes directly from the first owner.
One of the best pieces any collector with interest in the brand can add to the collection. This timepiece is all about elevating a collection to a new and higher level.
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
No stock kept on site
* Every watch is delivered in a Mr WATCHLEY Membrane Protection Box for a safe transportation in addition to its original set *
| Reference | 112.021 |
|---|---|
| Movement | Manual Wound |
| Caliber |
Calibre L901.1
|
| Dial | Gold Guilloché dial |
| Size (Case) | 38,5 mm |
| Material (Case) | Yellow gold |
| Strap |
Mr Watchley Saffiano Copper |
| Glass | Sapphire |
| Condition | Excellent |
| Year | 1999 |
| Papers | Yes |
| Box | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |