A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Handwerkskunst

Earlier this year at Watches & Wonders 2024, A. Lange & Söhne kicked off dual celebrations: the 30th anniversary of the brand’s rebirth and the 25th anniversary of the iconic Datograph. While two show-stopping novelties were unveiled at the event—the Datograph Up/Down Limited Edition and the Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Lumen in Honeygold—Lange is far from done celebrating. The brand has just introduced a stunning new model: the Datograph Handwerkskunst in yellow gold. Limited to just 25 pieces, this new release continues Lange’s tradition of showcasing intricate hand-finishing techniques and extraordinary craftsmanship.

The 41mm yellow gold case marks the first time in years that the Datograph has appeared in this precious metal. The case retains the classic proportions of the Datograph Up/Down, with a thickness of 13.1mm, offering a substantial presence on the wrist. The warm tones of the 750 yellow gold complement the intricate engraving and decoration on the dial, creating an aesthetic that is both luxurious and refined.
On the reverse side, the watch features a sapphire crystal exhibition caseback, revealing the meticulously finished L951.8 manually wound chronograph movement. The Handwerkskunst decoration continues through to the movement, where the frosted German silver plates and black-polished chronograph levers showcase the exceptional level of craftsmanship. The hand-engraved balance cock, featuring a relief-engraved vine pattern, adds an additional layer of artistry to the already stunning movement.The flyback chronograph allows for quick resetting and restarting, while the precisely jumping minute counter ensures accuracy in timekeeping.It comes equipped with short, elegantly curved lugs that ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist, while the crown and pushers are seamlessly integrated into the side of the case. The pushers, positioned at 2 and 4 o’clock, offer smooth operation of the flyback chronograph function, maintaining the watch’s sleek silhouette. Topped by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the case is as functional as it is beautiful. Water-resistance can reach up to 30 meters (98 feet).The Datograph Handwerkskunst features a dial that is a true masterpiece of engraving. Made from 750 yellow gold, the dial is decorated with a complex tremblage engraving, a technique that creates a fine-grained texture. The main dial is treated with black rhodium while the subdials receive a light-gray rhodium finish, creating a stunning contrast. The intricacy of the engraving is astonishing, as all the elements—such as the A. Lange & Söhne logo, the minutes and seconds markers, and the tachymeter scale—are carved in relief, enhancing the three-dimensional effect of the dial.Adding to its complexity, the Roman numerals and applied indices are meticulously chamfered and straight-grained before being affixed to the dial. The overall design is a nod to the original Datograph released in 1999, as this model forgoes the Up/Down power reserve indicator, allowing the dial to remain clean and balanced with Roman numerals at 2, 6, and 10 o’clock. While there is no lume on the dial, the exceptional tremblage finish ensures that the watch plays with light in a way that few other dials can, offering a visual experience that is both dynamic and elegant.

A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Handwerkskunst

The “A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Handwerkskunst” (Ref#: 405.048F) is powered by the hand-wound calibre L951.8, featuring 46 jewels and consisting of 426 parts, and 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz). Power reserve can last up to 60 hours, when fully wound.What sets this movement apart in the Handwerkskunst series is the extraordinary level of finishing. The frosted German silver movement plates are paired with black-polished chronograph levers, a new touch that adds a striking contrast. Each lever is polished to perfection, creating a mirror-like finish that appears jet black when viewed from certain angles. Additionally, the balance cock is hand-engraved with a relief-engraved vine pattern, replacing the traditional floral motifs seen in other Lange timepieces.Mounted on the watch is a hand-stitched dark-brown alligator scaled leather strap with exposed contrasting stitchings, secured by a matching yellow gold deployant clasp. This is a limited edition of only 25 pieces. It is not just a tribute to the original Datograph, but a celebration of the brand’s highest level of craftsmanship. For more up to date information visit the official A. Lange & Söhne website here.

 

A Lange & Söhne, Datograph, Handwerkskunst, Watches & Wonders, Luxury Watches