A. Lange & Söhne marks a milestone with the release of the Datograph Handwerkskunst, a masterful expression of the watchmaker’s art in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the renowned Datograph chronograph. Introduced in 1999, the Datograph has set standards in chronograph design and functionality.
The term ‘Handwerkskunst’, German for ‘artisanship’, defines a line of ultra-exclusive, limited-edition watches that A. Lange & Söhne has been offering since 2011. Notable predecessors include the Lange 1 Tourbillon Handwerkskunst and the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar Handwerkskunst, which showcase exceptional artistic decoration on both dials and movements.
This latest creation features a 41 mm case made of 18kt yellow gold, beautifully framing a black-rhodiumed gold dial enhanced by light-grey rhodiumed totalizers. The dial boasts a distinctive tremblage engraving, achieved with a specially designed lining burin, a technique that ensures a fine-grained texture while maintaining the clarity of critical elements such as the arched brand logo and the tachymeter scale.
Further attention to detail is evident in the chamfered edges of the appliques and Roman numerals, and the straight grained hands and surfaces, highlighting the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Visible through the sapphire-crystal caseback is the manufacture Calibre L951.8, a hand-wound movement consisting of 426 parts, showcasing the intricate artistry of its components. The granular finish of the German silver bridges and the black-polished chronograph levers, which reflect light directionally, are just some of the exceptional features.
The balance cock is notably adorned with a relief-engraved filigreed vine pattern, adding depth and character to the movement. Operating at a frequency of 2.5 Hz, this caliber provides a power reserve of 60 hours, ensuring both precision and longevity.
Limited to only 25 pieces worldwide, the Datograph Handwerkskunst is available exclusively at Lange boutiques. This model is a tribute not only to the Datograph’s legacy but also to the skilled artisans who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in watchmaking.
Reflecting on the series’ tradition, each Datograph Handwerkskunst piece since 2011 has been a testament to the intricate handwork and dedication of the master watchmakers in Saxony. The harmony between the dark rhodium dial and the contrasting decorations creates a visually stunning effect, while the meticulously hand-finished movement, visible through the case back, invites admiration of its technical and aesthetic complexity.
This release, limited to just 25 pieces, reaffirms A. Lange & Söhne’s position at the pinnacle of high horology, celebrating a quarter century of a beloved complication with a piece that is as much a work of art as it is a feat of engineering. The price of this exquisite timepiece is available upon request, positioning it among the more expensive watches in the luxury market.
