This article was written and contributed by Jonathan Fairfield, a Writer and English Teacher based in Thailand
The latest masterpiece from German watchmakers A. Lange & Söhne, the Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar, offers a totally new interpretation of the classic perpetual calendar complication. What was originally showcased at SIHH 2012, the watch made quite an impression when it was launched earlier this year.
Although some may wonder what all the fuss is about, the use of the word ‘tourbillon’ in the watch’s title is the main clue, but what really brings this timepiece to life is the sheer precision and clarity of the perpetual calendar mechanism – the indicators of which automatically change at the stroke of midnight.
This highly complicated, yet stunning timepiece is something of a first. Thanks to the watch’s innovative design and arrangement, which is not only subtle and stylish but incredibly practical and effective, the watch features a month indicator which is displayed around the dial as a peripheral ring.
The Lange 1’s off centre configuration of the dial also contributes to the near perfect integration of the perpetual calendar, which of course enables it to be displayed clearly, whilst neatly displaying the hour and minute circle without compromising the general readability of the time display. Interestingly, the calendar is not only accurate but does not need to be corrected until the year 2100.
At first glance, the harmonious integration of the calendar and tourbillon complication is not so obvious, especially as the only mention of the complication can be found in the form of a modest inscription at the position of 12 o’clock. Even as you study the design of the dial further the watch offers up no further clues as to the technical complexity behind its design and development to what is possibly the jewel in the crown of A. Lange & Söhne.
On the dial itself, despite there being plenty to look at in terms of indicators and information, the display remains well organised and clear. What is a first on a Lange watch, you’ll find it features all calendar indications, including Lange’s famous large date window and, as mentioned above, a moon-phase display which can change instantaneously to produce clear and accurate readings at all times. The month is indicated by the small arrow marker located at the lower rim of the peripheral ring of the dial and on the left hand side you’ll find the day of the week indicator, which neatly uses the first letter of each day only.
It’s fair to say that the display itself would be enough for it to be considered a really great watch. However, despite Lange not really being known for creating highly complicated timepieces that are also self winding, the functionality of the Lange 1 will surely take many people by surprise.
Inside the watch the tourbillon automatic L082.1 calibre movement has been designed and manufactured in house and consists of 624 parts. The automatic movement rotor is centrally mounted and made from platinum and gold, where the turbillon is placed under hand engraved double balance cocks.
The case measures approximately 42mm wide, is about 12mm thick and is nicely brushed around the sides and has been seemingly polished just about everywhere else. The watch is available in two versions – platinum and 18k pink gold, with the former being limited to only 100 pieces.
For watch lovers who love technically refined, stylish and luxurious timepieces then the Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar will almost certainly excite.
