A. Lange & Söhne

In 1999, just nine years after the re-establishment of the brand, A. Lange & Söhne introduced the Datograph, a landmark debut that featured the manufacture’s very first in-house chronograph movement. The newly developed caliber L951.1 combined a traditional column-wheel chronograph with a flyback function, a precisely jumping minute counter, and Lange’s signature outsized date display. This remarkable creation marked the beginning of what has since become a collection of 13 sophisticated chronograph-equipped timepieces.

Among these is the Datograph Up/Down, powered by the refined caliber L951.6. First unveiled in 2012, this movement evolved the original architecture with key enhancements, including an extended power reserve of 60 hours and the addition of a power reserve indicator, reflected in the model’s name.

The flyback mechanism allows for rapid consecutive time measurements. With a single press of the pusher, the chronograph hand can be stopped, reset to zero, and immediately restarted. This instant reset function, historically used in early aviation, enables seamless and precise timing. Complementing this is the jumping minute counter, which advances to the next minute marker exactly as the chronograph seconds hand completes a full revolution, ensuring perfect legibility.

The Up/Down designation refers to the power reserve indicator, which provides a clear display of the remaining energy within the 60-hour reserve. The manually wound caliber L951.6 is assembled twice and immaculately finished in true Lange tradition, highlighting the brand’s dedication to precision engineering and aesthetic excellence.

With its technical sophistication, iconic design elements, and impeccable finishing, the Datograph Up/Down stands as a benchmark for modern chronograph craftsmanship, an essential piece for collectors who appreciate complex horology and timeless design.