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A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual: Return of the Platinum Bracelet

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A. Lange & Söhne

Key Takeaways

  • The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual features a 41 mm platinum case.
  • This model is powered by the in-house calibre L952.1 with a 36-hour power reserve.
  • The platinum bracelet is a five-row design, entirely crafted from 950 platinum.
  • The watch dial features 11 baguette-cut diamond hour markers.
  • The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual is limited to 50 pieces.

The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual marks its 20th anniversary with the reintroduction of a platinum bracelet, crafted in collaboration with Wellendorff. Limited to 50 pieces, it features baguette diamond hour markers.

Design of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual

A. Lange & Söhne has reintroduced a platinum bracelet, developed with German jeweler Wellendorff, for the Datograph Perpetual. This was previously available on select models, including the first-generation Datograph, but was seldom ordered due to its high cost. The platinum bracelet now complements the limited edition Datograph Perpetual with baguette diamond hour markers.

What Makes the Platinum Bracelet Unique?

The new bracelet diverges from the older Wellendorff style, which typically had seven rows of polished links. This bracelet features a five-row design, made entirely of 950 platinum, with alternating matte and polished links of various shapes, and distinctly polished side edges. The folding clasp bears a prominent "Lange" engraving.

A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual with platinum bracelet

Technical Specifications of the Datograph Perpetual

The Datograph Perpetual maintains the technical specifications of previous models. Introduced in 2006, it was the first A. Lange & Söhne wristwatch to combine a flyback chronograph with a perpetual calendar and an outsize date display. The platinum case measures 41 mm in diameter and 13.5 mm thick, aligning with the white gold version in the permanent collection.

Dial Design and Features

The dial of the Datograph Perpetual is made from solid silver with a glossy black finish. The sub-dials have rhodium plating, and 11 baguette-cut diamonds serve as hour markers. The markers at 4 and 8 o'clock are omitted, while a double marker is at 12 o'clock. The primary hands are fashioned from white gold, with chronograph sub-dial hands made of blued steel.

Glossy black dial of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual

Layout and Readability

The layout of the dial ensures balance and readability. At 3 o'clock, there is a 30-minute counter combined with a month display and leap year indicator. The 9 o'clock position houses the small seconds, day of the week indicator, and a day/night indicator. The outsize date at the top of the dial forms an equilateral triangle with the sub-dials, offering visual symmetry.

Symmetrical layout of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual dial

A. Lange & Söhne Calibre L952.1

The Datograph Perpetual is powered by the in-house calibre L952.1. This movement combines the base calibre from the first-generation Datograph (L951.1) with an energy-intensive perpetual calendar module, resulting in a power reserve of 36 hours.

A. Lange & Söhne calibre L952.1 movement

Movement Construction and Finishing

Comprising 556 components, the movement features a column-wheel mechanism with horizontal coupling and a flyback function. It operates at 18,000 vph. The finishing includes polished edges, decorative brushing, blued screws, and polished steel components, creating a striking interplay of textures and colors.

Detailed view of components in the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual

Limited Edition and Pricing

This new edition is limited to 50 pieces. Pricing is available upon request, but experts estimate it starting at €250,000.

Limited edition A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual watch

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the case size of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual?

The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual features a platinum case measuring 41 mm in diameter and 13.5 mm in thickness.

How many pieces is the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual limited to?

The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual is limited to 50 pieces.

What is the price range of the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual?

The price for the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual is available on request, with estimates starting from €250,000.