A. Lange & Söhne

First introduced in 1994, the original Lange 1 marked a new era for A. Lange & Söhne. It featured a solid caseback, concealing its beautifully finished movement. Just a year later, in 1995, a platinum version with a sapphire crystal display back was released, offering collectors their first glimpse of the movement within. From that point onward, all Lange timepieces have been crafted with transparent casebacks, a tradition that continues to this day.

In 1998, A. Lange & Söhne unveiled a more compact version of the Lange 1: the Little Lange 1. While nearly identical in design to its larger counterpart, later models of the Little Lange 1 introduced refined elements such as diamond-set bezels and intricate guilloché dials, adding a touch of elegant distinction.

Both versions showcase the signature off-center dial layout and oversized date, hallmarks of the Lange 1 collection. The harmonious proportions of the dial are meticulously arranged according to the golden ratio, creating a sense of aesthetic balance and timeless sophistication that has endured for over three decades.

Visible through the sapphire crystal caseback is the iconic three-quarter plate, crafted from untreated German silver and adorned with traditional Glashütte ribbing. The manually wound movement is assembled twice and ensures that the outsized date switches instantaneously at midnight. The twin mainspring barrels deliver a robust power reserve of 72 hours.

Created for the 30th anniversary of the Lange 1, this exceptional set includes both the Lange 1 and the Little Lange 1, each adorned with baguette diamond-set bezels and black onyx dials. The Lange 1 measures 1.7mm larger in diameter and features a recessed corrector for adjusting the outsized date, highlighting a subtle technical difference between the two. This exclusive, off-catalogue secret set was reserved for the brands VIP and VVIP clients. Sotheby’s is honored to present it for the first time at auction.