By Kien Lee
The 1815 collection by A. Lange & Söhne is an exquisite homage to a pivotal moment in horological history, as it is the birth year of the brand's visionary founder Ferdinand Adolph Lange. For A. Lange & Söhne, 1815 symbolizes the beginning of a legacy that would reshape Saxon watchmaking.
Rooted in the precision and craftsmanship that defined the company’s origins in Glashütte, this collection is a masterful fusion of tradition and innovation — a timepiece that embodies both the humility and relentless pursuit of perfection that marked Lange's approach to watchmaking.
The 1815 watch family in 2025, from left to right: 1815, 1815 UP/DOWN, 1815 CHRONOGRAPH, 1815 ANNUAL CALENDAR, 1815 RATTRAPANTE PERPETUAL CALENDAR, 1815 TOURBILLON, 1815 THIN HONEYGOLD “Homage to F. A. Lange”, 1815 RATTRAPANTE, TOURBOGRAPH PERPETUAL HONEYGOLD “Homage to F. A. Lange”
The 1815 family is defined by its timeless elegance, which draws on the design principles of the 19th century but is imbued with the technical sophistication of modern engineering. The dial arrangement is a study in restraint yet complexity, evoking the classic aesthetics of historic pocket watches. Featuring legible Arabic numerals and a railway-track minute scale, the dial presents a perfect balance of readability and refinement. This collection embraces traditional watchmaking aesthetics, exuding timeless sophistication and refined restraint.
In contrast, A. Lange & Söhne’s other collections, like the Lange 1 or Datograph, incorporate more complex, modern design elements, such as off-center dials, large date windows, and more intricate complications. These collections feature a bolder, more contemporary look, with a focus on technical innovation and distinctive design features. While still showcasing the brand’s commitment to precision, they possess a slightly more avant-garde feel compared to the 1815's emphasis on heritage and simplicity.
What truly distinguishes the 1815 collection is the mechanical heart that powers these remarkable watches. Through the sapphire-crystal caseback, one is treated to a view of the finely decorated movement — a marvel of precision. With its meticulously crafted components and traditional watchmaking complications, the 1815 models are a celebration of Lange’s heritage. The untreated German silver three-quarter plate not only ensures superior stability but also pays tribute to the brand’s commitment to enduring quality.
Distinctive features such as the hand-engraved balance cock, whiplash spring for beat regulation, and the classic screw balance (in select models) add a touch of artisanal craftsmanship to each piece. Gold chatons, secured by thermally blued screws, complete the movement’s intricate design, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to excellence.
Marking 180 years since the birth of Ferdinand Adolph Lange, the 1815 collection is as diverse as it is refined. From the 1815 to the technically complex 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar, and the elegant 1815 Thin Honeygold “Homage to F. A. Lange,” each model in this distinguished family embodies the essence of Lange’s legacy.
These timepieces transcend mere functionality, becoming enduring symbols of artisanal skill and the unwavering pursuit of perfection that defines A. Lange & Söhne.
