In the 1990’s, the decade I grew up as a watch fan, the resurrection of A. Lange und Söhne was one of the most important events in the watch industry. I still remember the presentation in 1994, led by the great Günter Blümlein and Walter Lange, where the inaugural core collection was presented to the world. We saw something new, something different in style and quality and hints of a great ambition.
A. Lange und Söhne Lange 1: Under the Radar
Being a dress watch from an upcoming brand, the Lange 1 long remained under the radar of collectors. However the tide is changing quickly. In recent years the model is gaining more and more appreciation and prices are moving up, especially on some of the early pieces. Let me guide you through 5 references of A. Lange und Söhne that have proven to be very collectable already.
A. Lange und Söhne Lange 1
Ref.nr. 100.001
The Ur-Lange, that was part of the brand introduction in 1994. With its 38,5 mm yellow gold case and silver dial it has the archetype Lange 1 looks. What makes the 100.001 special is the solid case back. It was soon to be replaced by 100.002, having a see-through case back and much more popular at the time. However, the short lifespan and limited production numbers have made the 100.001 the ultimate sleeper that woke up in the past two years. In November 2019 an example made euro 40,000 at Dr. Crott’s auction, and recognition came for the Ur-Lange. Two auctions in 2020 have confirmed the market that this price is current market rate, and almost twice as much as a regular pre-owned Lange 1.
A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Ref. 101.026
Ref. nr. 101.026
From day 1, A. Lange und Söhne only offered precious metals on all of their models. However, already in the early 2000’s rumours rose about the existence of some steel models, that would be made available for selected retailers, clients and even employees. Reference 101.026 is the steel version of the Lange 1, and it is estimated that between 20 and 30 were ever made. Showing up at auctions every few years, the value has risen dramatically. In 2016 Christie’s sold one for CHF 143,750, but recent results at Antiquorum (May 9, 2021: CHF 312,500) and Phillips (December 10, 2019: $ 343,750) have shown how serious a collectors piece this is. The Odysseus, that was launched in 2019 as Lange’s first official steel watch successfully introduced the brand to a new, younger audience and will certainly have sparked interest in the 101.026 as well.
