A. Lange & Söhne first released the DATOGRAPH in 1999, when the brand was relaunched. The now iconic timepience is now a benchmark in chronograph construction.

To commemorate its 25th anniversary, A. Lange & Söhne had already presented two fascinating interpretations of this mechanical magnum opus: the DATOGRAPH UP/DOWN in white gold with a blue dial and the DATOGRAPH PERPETUAL TOURBILLON HONEYGOLD “Lumen”.

This third chapter to these celebrations sees the launch of the limited HANDWERKSKUNST edition, which boasts rare and exceedingly sophisticated dial and movement decorations. Since 2011, the attribute “HANDWERKSKUNST” has been used by A. Lange & Söhne to identify exclusive, special limited-edition watches whose dials and movements are adorned with particularly elaborate decorations.

One standout feature of the DATOGRAPH HANDWERKSKUNST is its black-rhodiumed main dial as well as the rhodiumed, light-grey totalisers - these feature an ornate tremblage engraving, resulting in a three-dimensional structure with subtle light reflexions.

From the black-polished chronograph levers to the hand-engraved balance cock, the calibre L951.8 in the DATOGRAPH HANDWERKSKUNST showcases a symphony of rare and sophisticated artisanal finishing techniques as well.

The chronograph levers, for example, undergo a rare black polishing process, creating a mesmerising dance of light and shadow across their surfaces. A further element is the hand-engraved balance cock, one of the German manufacture's most distinctive design elements. As floral motives have a long-standing tradition at A. Lange & Söhne, this intricate vine motif is painstakingly carved in relief. With every detail, the calibre constitutes a significant example of the manufacture’s competence in chronograph construction as well as its artistic craftsmanship.