A. Lange & Söhne, founded in Glashütte, Germany in 1845 by Ferdinand Adolph Lange, was destroyed by Soviet expropriation after WWII and magnificently revived by Walter Lange in 1990 after German reunification. The brand represents the pinnacle of German watchmaking — an alternative tradition to Swiss horology with distinct aesthetic codes including the proprietary outsize date, three-quarter plate, and hand-engraved balance cocks.
Every A. Lange & Söhne movement is assembled twice — first to test function, then disassembled and reassembled with final finishing. The brand uses German silver (untreated maillechort) plates that develop a golden patina over decades, hand-engraved balance cocks unique to each calibre, and blued screws heated by hand. Movement finishing is arguably the finest in production watchmaking at any price.
Lange watches are available through a select network of authorized dealers and boutiques. Most models are available without significant waitlists, though limited editions sell out quickly. The Saxonia and 1815 lines offer the most accessible entry into Lange's world, while the Lange 1 is the brand's signature piece.
Service is recommended every 4-6 years with costs of $1,500-$3,000 depending on complication. Lange's service is handled through their Glashütte headquarters, ensuring original-quality standards. Turnaround times can be 6-12 weeks for complex calibres.
A. Lange & Söhne watches are increasingly recognized as undervalued relative to their quality. The Lange 1 and Datograph hold value well and have appreciated in recent years as collectors discover the brand. The secondary market offers a rare opportunity to acquire arguably the best-finished watches in the world at reasonable premiums over retail.
Each collection has a distinct character — from tool watches to haute horlogerie. Click through for full model comparisons.
See how A. Lange & Söhne stacks up against other luxury watch brands.