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.

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 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.

Overall, the watch is in excellent condition, having undergone a complete official service in 2020, which included a case refurbishment, in addition to new glass and a new bezel fitted, with the crown being replaced as well. It remains in excellent condition, as it has hardly been worn since the service.

Closer look

Condition

This A. Lange & Shne Datograph 403.035 is in very good overall condition. The case and lugs show light marks, though only on the very surface of the material. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections and have been well preserved. On the caseback and deployment buckle, the hallmarks and engravings are crisp and well defined.

The watch has been well maintained by its previous owners. Included in the set is the original warranty card, dated to 2004 and showing the watch purchased at Zermatt-based retailer Schindler. It includes all requisite boxes and manuals. In addition, the watch is accompanied by three servicing invoices; two from Wempe in 2012 and 2015, and the most recent case from A. Lange & Shne directly in 2020.

The official service in 2020 included a case refurbishment, new glass, new bezel and a replacement winding crown. The watch has hardly been worn since the service.

Warranty

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