This is an early example of the A. Lange & Shne Datograph*, crafted from platinum. Powering it is the calibre L951.1, developed in-house by the brand. Upon its release in 1999, the Datograph and the calibre at its core upended the practice by even the most established houses in Switzerland to source movements from specialised suppliers. The new calibre combined impressive mechanics with remarkably aesthetic construction, which caught the eye of many, including watchmaker Philippe Dufour. This piece, which displays several details that point to it being an early production piece, comes with a full set, including warranty paperwork and a display case.

When the Datograph was first launched just before the turn of the century, it was revealed in this configuration, with a platinum case and black dial. To many, it remains the quintessential Datograph. The aesthetic endured till 2011. The 39mm case features a high polished, rounded bezel that meets a midcase with horizontal satination. The midcase features a pair of squared chronograph pushers, as well as one to quickset the date. The pushers are satinated in profile and polished when viewed from the top. The lugs, stepped fractionally from the case, are straight and high polished. The bezel for the display caseback is polished in profile and brushed on top, with engravings detailing the brand mark, serial number as well as the place of origin. Six screws hold it in place.

The dial, carefully proportioned, places the date and chronograph subdials in an equilateral triangle formation. The pinion, on which the lancet-style hours and minutes hands, as well as the chronograph seconds, are mounted at the centre of this triangle. The applied Roman numerals at 2, 6, and 10 o'clock also form an inverted triangle, complementary in their form and subtly reinforcing the balance of the overall design. The rest of the hours are marked by faceted applied indices.

The subdials are slightly recessed, with a brushed texture in a warm, creamy tone, helping to differentiate them from the black dial. This layering, together with the framed date windows, creates a satisfying impression of depth that reveals itself at certain angles. This is a particularly early example of the Datograph, as evidenced by the BASE 1000 METER signature found on the tachymeter scale. In examples produced later, around 20052005, the scale wears the words BASE 1000 METERS,"the subtle difference marking them apart.

This Datograph 403.035 is powered by the caliber L951.1, which combines a range of impressive technical and aesthetic features. It is understood that the development began in 1995, with several years of design, prototyping, and construction required to achieve the end result. It features a column wheel, lateral clutch, and flyback functionality, combined with a date function.

The watch comes on a dark brown, alligator-style leather strap, with a white gold signed pin buckle. Also included are the warranty paperwork as well as the presentation box. It represents a rare opportunity to acquire the quintessential expression of the modern classic, which is the Datograph.

Closer look

Condition

This A. Lange & Shne Datograph 403.035 is in very good overall condition. Light superficial marks consistent with minimal wear are found on the case and lugs, though only on the very surface of the material. Notably on the bezel at the six o'clock position. The dial, hands, and movement show no signs of imperfection and have been very well preserved. The hallmarks and engravings on the caseback and buckle are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.