This Lange 1 ref. 101.030* features the striking combination of a white gold case and a restrained grey dial, creating a distinctive monochromatic appearance that has deservedly given it a cult status among collectors. Believed to have been produced between 2003 and 2007, it represents one of the most versatile and rare executions of the early Lange 1 design.

For many, the Lange 1 is the quintessential A. Lange & Shne watch and, by extension, the purest form of German design in watchmaking. Believed to have been produced between 2003 and 2007, the reference 101.030 combines a white gold case with a restrained grey dial, made out of solid silver. Few of these pieces were ever made, as it is believed that A. Lange & Shne clients tended to prefer lighter dials at the time. It is understood that this variant was made in fewer examples than the so-called"Darth," another Lange 1 from the period.

The decentralised arrangement of the displays on the dial is characteristic, with the centres 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 grey dial and faceted hands. The oversized date disc, a signature design from the brand, is displayed at the top right corner of the dial, inspired from theat Semper Opera Housein Dresden. At 3 oclock, the power reserve is indicated in German, a reminder of the manufacturers origins.

The dial features a dark, matte finish, providing a subtle contrast with the lightly recessed subdials. With a change of light, the anthracite colour can turn to a lighter mid-grey, with the very fine texture softly catching the light. Being an earlier piece from the German watchmaker, it is housed in a classically sized 38.5mm white gold case, similar to the original Lange 1.

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, it is said that 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 calibre L901.0, 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 1 101.030 is in very good overall condition. Light superficial marks are found throughout, though only on the very surface of the material. 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 2022. The brand's own servicing warranty expires 07/08/2024.

Warranty

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