The Lange 1* is, in every way, deserving of being called a modern icon. One of the first watches made following the re-establishment of A. Lange & Shne, it's simple yet distinctive design has commanded the respect of collectors. This early, white-gold Lange 1 ref. 101.027, featuring a striking dark blue dial, was produced for a handful of years at the turn of the century.

When A. Lange & Shne was resurrected by Walter Lange (great grandson of founder Ferdinand Adolph Lange) and Gnter Blmlein (who had previously overseen the resurgence of IWCandJaeger-LeCoultre), they did so with four lines Arkade,Saxonia,Tourbillon Pour le Mriteand theLange 1. While each bore a distinct design language, the Lange 1 has come to be viewed as the quintessential A. Lange & Shne and the purest expression of Glashtte watchmaking.

This reference101.027, produced exclusively between 1997 and 2002, sets itself apart from otherLange 1s thanks to its distinctive dark blue dial. The two subsidiary dials, with the indication for the hours, minutes and seconds, have a slightly darker, even finish. The rest of the dial features avertical, satin-brushed finish, providing a subtle contrast with the lightly recessed subdials. The cult status of this earlyLange 1with blue dial is such that, in 2017,A. Lange & Shnereleased acollection of watches with blue dials, directly inspired by this watch.Being an earlier piece from the German watchmaker, it is housed in a classically-sized 38.5mm case, similar tothe originalLange 1.

The decentralised arrangement of the displays on the dial is characteristic, with the centers of the displays designed to form the corners of an isosceles triangle. The masterful use of empty space, with none of the displays overlapping, creates an overall sense of balance and refinement. In keeping with this classic styling, the watch features a crisp dark bluedial and faceted white goldhands.Exhibiting an aesthetic that is undeniablyLange, an oversized outside aperture is displayed at the top right corner of the dial, inspired from theatSemper Opera Housein Dresden. At 3 oclock, the power reserve is indicated in German, a reminder of the manufacturers origins.

Much attention is given toA. Lange & Shnesmore technically-complicated watches, like theor, but looking at thisLange 1, it is evident that their uncomplicated approach to form and design is equally noteworthy.More frequently produced with a white dial, this blue variant of theLange 1remains as elusive, as it is attractive.

The aesthetics of the movement are just as impressive as the mechanics, with chamfering and interior angles superbly hand-finished. Moreover, it features an artistic flourish, a balance-cock engraved by one ofLangesmaster engravers. In fact, each individual watchmaker's unique engraving style can be identified as a result. The bridges and plates are made fromGermansilver, an alloy of copper, nickel and zinc, with a warm silver tone that will develop a subtle patina over time. The use of this metal, along with the hand-engraved balance cock is a signature ofA. Lange & Shne.

TheA. Lange & Shne Lange 1houses a manual-winding calibreL901.0, with a 72-hour power reserve. The movement is comprised of 398 components, of which 54 are jewels and five screwed gold chatons the latter of which are a mark ofLanges traditionally Germanmovement. The watch has a lever escapement and the balance beats at 21,600 A/h.

Closer look

Condition

This A. Lange & Shne Lange 1 101.027 is in very good overall condition. Light superficial marks are found throughout, though only on the very surface of the material, more specifically on the upper right lug. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections. The hallmarks and engravings found on both the case and buckle are crisp and well defined.

The watch was fully serviced by A. Lange & Shne, Germany, in 2021. The brand's own servicing warranty expired 16/08/2023.

Warranty

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