A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 112.021

A. Lange & Söhne LANGE 1A

A. Lange & Söhne's reference 112.021, also known as the LANGE 1A, is one of the brand's most significant early special editions. Introduced in 1998 in a limited edition of 100 pieces in yellow gold, it was both the first limited edition LANGE 1 and the first series-produced A. Lange & Söhne wristwatch with a solid gold dial. The timepiece's striking guilloché dial, crafted in 18-carat yellow gold, lends it a distinctive presence and a captivating radiance. The product absorbs light, displays great depth and warmth, and deliberately breaks with the brand's otherwise restrained aesthetic. The date display is also in gold, matching the case and dial. The hands on the dial are typically crafted from gold, contributing to the timepiece's sophisticated aesthetic. However, some models in the series feature blued hands, such as the model shown here with blued minute and hour hands. It is believed that some models were fitted with individual elements at a time when the company was more flexible with custom-made designs. The '1A' designation draws on the heritage of the historic A. Lange & Söhne pocket watches and is a testament to the highest standards of craftsmanship. The movement is equally intricate. The pallet cock, the escape wheel cock, and the balance cock are also made of solid gold and engraved by hand. The 38.5 mm case is constructed in accordance with the typical structural architecture of A. Lange & Söhne, featuring a three-part construction, brushed and mirror-polished surfaces, and characteristic soldered lugs. Despite its quality, it is not the case that it is the dial that makes the 112.021 an icon. Rather, it is the watch's extravagant nature, technical sophistication, and clear commitment to uncompromising watchmaking that make it an icon. The A. Lange & Söhne 1A Reference 112.021 is widely regarded as the forerunner of the subsequent limited 'Handwerkskunst' edition. The watch was launched in 1998 to commemorate the completion of the second Lange manufactory building, and was produced until 1999.