Introduced in 1999, the Datograph is considered by many to be one of the most compelling chronographs ever made. Admired by independent watchmaker Philippe Dufour, who owns one himself, its movement took several years to develop, before taking the watchmaking industry by surprise. This platinum example captures much of what makes the early pieces so appealing.

In 1999, A. Lange & S?hne introduced the Datograph, powered by the caliber?L951.1. The movement challenged the status quo that had been in place for decades, where high-end manufactures such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Audemars Piguet used movements?. The newly developed caliber combined impressive mechanics with a remarkable aesthetic construction. It was praised by none other than?, who?, and wears it on a frequent basis.

This particular?variant - with its platinum case and black dial?- was the first iteration of the design, having remained in production from 1999 to 2011.
To many, it remains the quintessential?Datograph. It features a carefully designed dial, which perfectly balances the different elements throughout. The date and chronograph subdials form an equilateral triangle, with the central point being the pinions in the middle, which hold the hands in place. The applied Roman numerals - at 2, 6 and 10 o'clock - also form a triangle, which subtly reinforced the balance of the overall design.

The subdials are slightly recessed, with a warm, creamy tone, which contrasts with the stark, black dial.?This layering creates a satisfying level of depth, which becomes especially prominent when light hits the dial at different angles. This is a particularly early example of the Datograph, as evidenced by the "METER" signature found on?the tachymeter.?In later examples of the tachymeter, the letter S has been added to the end of the word METER at 2 oclock - so the text changes from BASE 1000 METER to BASE 1000 METERS. This change seems to happen?around 2005-2006.?

Measuring 39 mm by 12.8mm, the case is made out of platinum, which complements the darker tones of the dial. The case features the brands distinctive notched lugs, which are mirror polished and bevelled separately, then attached to the case. The pushers follow the lines of the case, with subtle bevels used on the edges.

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 chronograph movement, combined with a date function.?The flyback chronograph function also allows the stopwatch to be instantaneously restarted for continuous timing, without having to stop, reset, and restart the chronograph.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this A. Lange & S?hne Datograph will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This A. Lange & S?hne Datograph is in good condition throughout. The case and lugs show superficial marks from wear over time. The dial hands and movement are free from any signs of imperfection. The hallmarks and engravings on the case back are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

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