A. Lange & Söhne Debuts 50-Piece Platinum Datograph Perpetual

A. Lange & Söhne has introduced a limited edition Datograph Perpetual in platinum with a diamond-baguette dial and a platinum bracelet. The watch, priced around EUR 280,000, is limited to 50 pieces and celebrates the model's 20th anniversary since its 2006 launch. This edition presents a significant design shift, being the first standard Datograph Perpetual with a black dial and the first to feature baguette-cut diamond hour markers.

The case measures 41 mm in diameter and 13.5 mm in height, matching the proportions of the existing white gold model. It is crafted from 950 platinum. The limited edition consists of 50 individually numbered pieces available exclusively through Lange boutiques.

Diamond-Baguette Dial Innovation

This anniversary model introduces a new dial configuration for the collection. The solid silver dial has a glossy black finish. It features 11 baguette-cut diamonds as hour markers, totaling approximately 0.13 carats. These replace the traditional metal baton indices, a first for the Datograph Perpetual. The diamonds are placed at all hour positions except 4 and 8 o'clock, with a double marker at 12 o'clock. The rhodium-plated sub-counters provide contrast against the dark background.

Perpetual Calendar and Chronograph Functions

The watch combines a flyback chronograph with a full perpetual calendar, displaying the date, day, month, moonphase, and leap year. It is powered by the manually wound calibre L952.1, which has 556 components and a 36-hour power reserve. The movement operates at 18,000 vibrations per hour and uses a column-wheel and horizontal clutch architecture.

Setting the perpetual calendar involves two methods. A recessed corrector allows for the separate adjustment of each indication. A rapid-correction pusher at 10 o'clock advances all calendar indications simultaneously. This pusher is automatically disabled between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. to prevent accidental operation that could damage the movement.

Platinum Bracelet Heritage

The watch includes a five-row platinum bracelet as standard equipment. The bracelet, made of 950 platinum, features alternating brushed and polished links with a squared design that resembles the brand's Odysseus model. It is fitted with a folding clasp engraved with 'Lange'. This design continues a heritage of external bracelet craftsmanship for the brand; the first-generation Datograph was also offered with platinum bracelets made by the specialist jeweler Wellendorff.

The new bracelet lacks toolless adjustment or a micro-adjustment system. A. Lange & Söhne described the release as "the 50-piece limited edition of the Datograph Perpetual in platinum, with a diamond-baguette-adorned dial and a platinum bracelet." The Datograph Perpetual itself was the first Lange wristwatch to combine a chronograph and perpetual calendar with an outsize date. It was originally introduced in 2006 and discontinued in 2011 before later revivals. This strictly limited 50-piece run with its integrated platinum bracelet shows the piece's position as a collectible accessory.