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A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 Moonphase Watch

Wednesday, 02 April 2008

The A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 Moonphase watch is a brilliant example of Saxon high watchmaking, and moreover represents a striking continuation of the great success of the legendary Lange 1 timepiece -- a watch which is virtually synonymous with the modern success of A. Lange & Sohne. All of the elements which comprise the original A. Lange & Sohne masterpiece are present in this new A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 timepiece, in addition to a stunning new moon phase display, whose technical sophistication is extraordinary.

The heart of the Lange 1 Moonphase is the Manufacture caliber L901.5 movement. Manually wound, this resplendent mechanism is refined in according to the highest degree of traditional Glashutte excellence. The classical three quarter plate is crafted from untreated German silver (rather than the more common rhodium-plated brass, found in many fine watches), which glistens with fine Glashutte ribbing. Of the 54 jewels found in this mechanism, nine are set in gold chatons that are secured to the plate with richly blued steel screws. The balance wheel with its weighted gold screws is borne upon a hand-engraved balance cock, another striking signature of fine German horology, and one which ensures the unique hand-crafted character of each watch.

Technically, the creation of the A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 Moonphase watch presented daunting challenges to the watchmakers. In addition to incorporating the iconic outsize date (a calling card of the brand), the off-centered time display, and charming power reserve indicator of the original Lange 1, A Lange & Sohne sought to create a unique moon phase display which was not only exceptionally accurate, but also mimicked the continual motion of the moon, rather than the gradual advancement which characterizes most moon phase indicators. Coupled with the hour wheel, an ingenious 4-wheel train powers the moon disc, enabling it to turn in a gradual, continuous motion which is true to that of earth's heavenly neighbor. This remarkable moon phase indicator is not just stunningly beautiful, it is amazingly precise --- corresponding to an accuracy of 99.998 percent! In other words, 122.6 years must elapse before the lunar display of this A. Lange & Sohne watch shows one day of deviation from the activity of our moon!

The A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 Moonphase watch offers a truly wonderful combination of elegance, classicism, and horological virtuosity. Compared to the classic Lange 1 timepiece, the moonphase indicator of this watch adds just a bit more visual enticement to the already striking indications of the original. A. Lange & Sohne is presenting this stunningly beautiful watch in 18K yellow, rose, or white gold, and platinum.

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