In an industry such as watchmaking that has been around for centuries, it takes something truly special to cut through and make an impact in contemporary times. A Lange & Söhne has its own rich heritage dating back to 1845. Its founder Ferdinand Adolph Lange is credited with establishing Germany’s horological hub in the sleepy town of Glashütte, which remains the epicentre of the country’s fine watchmaking to this day. 

Yet, surprisingly, some of its most recognisable and revered designs are much more recent, and have quickly become firm modern classics. None more so than the Lange 1 and Datograph, which launched in 1994 and 1999 respectively, and are being celebrated at a special exhibition at London’s Phillips Perpetual from 9-14 March that traces how the collections evolved through to 2008.

The Lange 1 is instantly recognisable thanks to its asymmetric dial and signature oversized date. From its beginnings, it struck a careful balance between state-of-the-art design with a classical and elegant stylistic edge, powered by the maison’s precision timekeeping. In the decades since, the family has grown to incorporate different complications and looks, with this exhibition offering a rare chance to see some of the earliest iterations up close and in person. 

The Datograph similarly made a splash when it was introduced, raising the bar for in-house chronograph movements, and has also expanded since, both in technical complexity and aesthetics. Among the rare pieces to be viewed will be one of just 10 Platinum Datograph Reference 402.025x made for Milanese retailer Pisa Orologeria. While these timepieces are for display only, visitors can also browse a selection of highlights from the watchmaker that will go under the hammer in Phillips’ upcoming spring auctions, as well as curated pieces available for private sale. 

Made in Germany, a Tribute to the Early Lange 1 and Datograph is at Phillips Perpetual, 30 Berkeley Square, London, W1J 6EX, from 9-14 March 2022; phillips.com