A. Lange & Söhne Little Lange 1 - ref. 111.025 - Full set

The Watch

Few watches have achieved the status of the A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1. Introduced in 1994 as part of the manufacture’s celebrated return to watchmaking, it was not simply a new model, but a statement of intent. One that would come to define the modern identity of A. Lange & Söhne and establish the Lange 1 as one of the most recognisable watch designs of the late twentieth century.

The present Little Lange 1 Ref. 111.025 is a particularly compelling expression of that vision. Crafted in platinum and distinguished by its striking monochromatic appearance, it combines a silver dial with matching prismatic date discs, creating a remarkably cohesive aesthetic.

Its dial remains one of the most celebrated achievements in contemporary watch design. Inspired by the original Lange 1, the display abandons traditional symmetry in favour of a carefully calculated arrangement of non-overlapping indications. The centres of the various displays are positioned to form the corners of an isosceles triangle, resulting in an asymmetrical composition that feels both unconventional and perfectly balanced.

Measuring a restrained 36mm in diameter, the platinum case frames a dial of exceptional subtlety. The matte silver surface contrasts delicately with the slightly lighter subsidiary dials, whose opalescent finish introduces depth without disturbing the watch’s understated character. Completing the monochromatic theme is the signature outsize date aperture positioned at the upper right of the dial, one of the defining elements of the Lange 1 and a feature deeply rooted in Saxon watchmaking history.

Further enhancing the dial are faceted hands, applied Roman numerals and the German-language power reserve indicator positioned at three o’clock. The elegant curved signature above six o’clock references the manufacture’s home of Glashütte in Saxony, reinforcing the watch’s connection to its origins.

The significance of this reference extends beyond its aesthetics. Following the overwhelming success of the original 38.5mm Lange 1, A. Lange & Söhne introduced the ‘Little’ Lange 1 in 1995, responding to growing demand, particularly from the Japanese market, for a more compact interpretation of its flagship model. This example, believed to be among the earliest pieces to leave the manufacture during its modern era, represents an important chapter in the story of Lange’s renaissance and is fitted with its matching A. Lange & Söhne platinum pin buckle.

The Movement

Powering the Little Lange 1 is the celebrated caliber L901.0, one of the foundational movements of the modern A. Lange & Söhne era and a movement that helped establish the manufacture’s reputation among collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Historically based upon the architecture of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s caliber 822, the hand-wound movement was extensively reworked and elevated to Lange’s exacting standards. Comprising 398 individual components, including 54 jewels and five screwed gold chatons, it operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and delivers an impressive 72-hour power reserve.

Viewed through the sapphire caseback, the movement reveals the full extent of Lange’s dedication to traditional hand-finishing. The three-quarter plate, crafted from untreated German silver, develops a distinctive warm hue that has become a hallmark of the manufacture’s movements. Chamfered edges, polished bevels and finely executed interior angles demonstrate an extraordinary level of attention to detail throughout.

Particularly notable is the hand-engraved balance cock, individually decorated by one of Lange’s master engravers. No two examples are precisely alike, lending each movement a subtle individuality that reflects the artisanal nature of its construction.

More than simply a mechanism, the L901.0 embodies the philosophy that defined the rebirth of A. Lange & Söhne: uncompromising engineering executed with exceptional craftsmanship. Three decades after its introduction, it remains one of the most admired manually wound movements in contemporary watchmaking.

How It Wears

There is a distinct sense of occasion that accompanies watches from A. Lange & Söhne. Whether viewed through a loupe or experienced on the wrist, they possess a quality that feels immediately significant, a combination of engineering, craftsmanship and history that is difficult to articulate yet instantly recognisable.

That sensation is particularly evident with the Little Lange 1. The reduced 36mm proportions give the watch an elegance that feels effortlessly natural, while the platinum case provides reassuring substance without compromising comfort. Its monochromatic silver dial further enhances this sense of restraint, revealing its complexity gradually rather than demanding attention.

The result is a watch of remarkable versatility. Sophisticated enough for formal occasions yet understated enough for everyday wear, it balances presence and discretion in a manner few watches can achieve. Over time, it becomes increasingly apparent why the Lange 1 has earned its place among the icons of modern watchmaking.

Condition & Set

This A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Ref. 111.025 is presented in excellent overall condition. Believed to be among the earliest examples produced following the manufacture’s revival, the watch was originally retailed by Wempe and sold in 2000.

It retains its original silver dial and is offered as a complete set, accompanied by its original outer and inner box, manual and warranty papers. The original platinum pin buckle is included as well.

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	111.025
Movement	Manual Wound
Caliber	Calibre L901.0
Dial	Silver
Size (Case)	36 mm
Material (Case)	Platinum
Bracelet	Mr Watchley
Buckle	ALS platinum pin buckle
Condition	Very good
Year	Sold in 2000
Papers	Yes
Box	Yes
Warranty	2 years