A. Lange & Söhne

Launched in 1999, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph is widely celebrated among collectors as one of the finest modern chronograph wristwatches ever created. Its in-house manually wound movement exemplifies the brand’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship, featuring exquisite Glashütte ribbing, mirror-polished steelwork, and the signature hand-engraved balance cock. The model’s hallmark oversized date display—an homage to the Dresden Semper Opera clock—sits prominently at 12 o’clock, ensuring perfect legibility and visual balance.

The original Datograph was introduced with a 39mm case and without a power reserve indicator, giving the dial a perfectly balanced and uncluttered appearance. The platinum case paired with a black dial became the definitive configuration that captured the attention of collectors and the watch world alike when it debuted at Baselworld in 1999. In 2012, the model evolved into its second generation, featuring a larger 41mm case, the addition of a power reserve display at 6 o’clock, and baton hour markers replacing the earlier Roman numerals for a more contemporary aesthetic.

Offered by its original owner, the present example belongs to the earlier generation Datograph, featuring the classic 39mm platinum case. Within this generation, two dial variations exist, and this piece is distinguished by its “METERS” tachymeter scale—a subtle yet notable revision from the earlier “METER” engraving. This correction, introduced around 2005–2006, refined the dial’s typography and demonstrated Lange’s unwavering attention to detail and pursuit of perfection in every element of design and execution.