A. Lange & Söhne adds a new Datograph Handwerkskunst to its Saxonia family

A. Lange & Söhne first introduced the Datograph, the first in-house chronograph by the brand, in 1999, following the re-establishment of its manufacture. The timepiece was reinterpreted in 2012 with the release of Datograph Up/Down, and this year, marking the 25th anniversary of the first Datograph was the Datograph Up/Down in white gold with a blue dial and the Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Honeygold "Lumen" in Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024. Now, a new Datograph Handwerkskunst (Ref. 405.048F), a 25-piece limited edition, further extends the celebration. The timepiece is made in a rare combination of dial and movement decorations that puts A. Lange & Söhne skills in the spotlight.

A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Handwerkskunst

The dial of the new 41mm 750 yellow case Datograph Handwerkskunst lives up to its name, which has stood for exclusive special editions with elaborate dial and movement decorations since 2011. The black rhodium-plated main dial and the light grey totalizers feature an elaborate tremblage engraving that creates spatial depth. This engraving technique is carried out using a specially made thread burin to create a fine structure that refracts the light in fascinating reflections. Despite this sophisticated decoration, essential elements such as the arch logo, the minute and second scales and the tachymeter scale remain clearly and concisely visible.

"With the Datograph, our designers created a chronograph 25 years ago that combines technical sophistication and balanced design. The craftsmanship edition takes this artistry to an even higher level,’’ says Anthony de Haas, Director of Product Development, A. Lange & Söhne. “Every perspective of the timepiece reveals fascinating details that impressively document the exceptional craftsmanship of our engravers and finishers. The precision and aesthetics achieved through these hand-made finishes are unique and cannot be achieved by any machine."

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The artistic design continues with the hands, which are characterised by precisely bevelled edges and a fine line finish. Special attention is paid to the chronograph levers, whose surfaces have been refined with an elaborate black polish. This technique reflects the light from only one perspective, creating a deep black, mirror-like surface that shines from all other angles.

Another highlight is the engraved balance cock, which impresses with its filigree tendril motif. This artistic engraving is worked out in relief and is a special identifying feature of the Datograph craftsmanship. The floral motifs are a continuation of the tradition of the first precision pocket watches from A. Lange & Söhne and are testament to the decades of expertise and high level of craftsmanship of the manufacturer.

The L951.8 calibre, the heart of the chronograph, is a prime example of exquisite mechanics and design. The combination of historically inspired grained bridges and the tremblage finishing of the dial creates a harmonious and stylish combination of tradition and modernity.

This article first appeared in WatchTime.net

Images: Courtesy brand

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