The watchmaking world is abuzz with anticipation as A. Lange & Söhne announces the auction of the unique Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition,” scheduled for 9 November 2024 in Geneva. This exclusive timepiece, a paragon of Saxon craftsmanship, is not only a collector’s dream but also a symbol of philanthropy, with all proceeds benefiting The Prince’s Trust. This event represents a rare opportunity for horology enthusiasts and collectors to own a one-of-a-kind chronograph while contributing to a noble cause.
The Significance of the Concours of Elegance and A. Lange & Söhne’s Involvement
The Concours of Elegance, held from 30 August to 1 September 2024 at the historic Hampton Court Palace, provided the perfect setting for the unveiling of the Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition.” This prestigious event, known for showcasing the world’s most exquisite vintage cars, has been a significant platform for A. Lange & Söhne since 2018. The brand’s presence at the Concours highlights its deep connection with the world of automotive excellence, where precision engineering and timeless design are celebrated.
A. Lange & Söhne’s commitment to the Concours of Elegance goes beyond mere sponsorship. The event’s gardens, with their rich history and grandeur, reflect the brand’s philosophy of combining tradition with innovation. This year, the brand’s focus was on select chronographs, particularly the Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition,” a timepiece that embodies the pinnacle of Saxon watchmaking.
A Detailed Look at the Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition”
The Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition” is a testament to A. Lange & Söhne’s dedication to precision and craftsmanship. This chronograph is encased in 750 white gold, a material that not only enhances the watch’s durability but also adds a level of sophistication. The grey dial, contrasted with black subsidiary dials, offers a striking visual appeal, marking this edition as truly unique in the brand’s lineup.
At the heart of this timepiece is the manually wound L951.6 calibre, composed of 451 meticulously crafted components. The movement is a marvel of engineering, featuring a flyback function and a precisely jumping minute counter, which are hallmarks of the Datograph series. The mechanism is assembled twice, ensuring unparalleled precision and reliability. The sapphire-crystal caseback provides a window into the intricate workings of the movement, allowing collectors to appreciate the technical mastery involved.
The watch also features a hinged cuvette, engraved with the crest of the Concours of Elegance, which adds an extra layer of exclusivity. The bridges made of untreated German silver, the hand-engraved balance cock with a whiplash precision index adjuster, and the four screwed gold chatons further enhance the watch’s aesthetic and technical appeal. These elements are signature features of A. Lange & Söhne’s timepieces, making this edition a must-have for serious collectors.
The Auction and Its Beneficiaries
The upcoming auction, organized by Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, will be a significant event in the horology calendar. On 9 November 2024, the Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition” will go under the hammer, with all proceeds, including the buyer’s premium, directed to The Prince’s Trust. This UK-based charity, under the patronage of His Majesty King Charles III, plays a vital role in supporting young people by providing them with essential life skills and access to employment opportunities.
A. Lange & Söhne’s commitment to The Prince’s Trust reflects the brand’s broader philosophy of giving back to society while striving for excellence in its craft. Wilhelm Schmid, CEO of A. Lange & Söhne, emphasizes this ethos: “Being part of the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace has become a special tradition for us, underscoring our passion for groundbreaking engineering and craftsmanship, as well as its significance for future generations. The masterpieces on wheels showcased here are born from the same pursuit of precision, originality, and perfection as was once the case with our Datograph. As our manufacture’s very first proprietary chronograph movement, it has been an expressive symbol of our ambition to never stand still for 25 years. Our commitment to The Prince’s Trust also follows this philosophy. We hope that as many people as possible will take part in the auctioning of the Datograph Up/Down ‘Hampton Court Edition’ and thus support the important work of the Trust.”
The Legacy of A. Lange & Söhne in Fine Watchmaking
Founded in 1845 by Ferdinand Adolph Lange, A. Lange & Söhne has established itself as a leader in precision watchmaking. Despite being expropriated after World War II, the brand was revived in 1990 by Lange’s great-grandson, Walter Lange, and has since been synonymous with high-end horology. The brand’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship is evident in its creation of 73 manufacture calibres since 1990, each representing a blend of tradition and modernity.
The Datograph, first introduced 25 years ago, is particularly significant as it was the brand’s first proprietary chronograph movement. The “Hampton Court Edition” builds on this legacy, offering collectors a piece of history combined with cutting-edge technology.
Conclusion
The auction of the Datograph Up/Down “Hampton Court Edition” presents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors to acquire a unique and historically significant timepiece while supporting a charitable cause. For more information on the auction or to participate, please visit the official A. Lange & Söhne website or Phillips Auction House.
