A Closer Look at The The A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Date
The A. Lange & Sohne watchmaker has added further complications to their latest release. The signature Zeitwerk has received an extra layer in the A. Lange & Sohne Zeitwerk Date. The re-imagination of the edition that made is debut in 2008 is a new twist on a watch model that was considered to be revolutionary upon its release. The original offered jumping digital displays in the stead of minutes and hours with a highly complex movement along with a constant force escapement. The watch has since been released in an occasional variant but the original theme was maintained. Their latest take in the form of the Zeitwerk Date deserves a closer inspection.
The case of the Zeitwerk Date
The original Zeitwerk was 41.9 mm in circumference. The new Date edition receives a larger case that measures 44.2 mm in diameter. The thickness of the case is 12.3 mm. The larger size is a necessity to accommodate the additional complication which has been included as a new layer of function in an already remarkable timepiece. The material used for the creation of the case is white gold.
The dial
The dial has an elegant aesthetic in a grey color with a large bridge made of German silver with rhodium plating. The accents of red are remarkable contrast against the silver grey background and pop out with vibrant color. The indexes are a digital display featuring Arabic numerals. A date ring has been placed around the outer edge of its dial, creating a subdued yet visually appealing presentation.
The movement
The movement that powers the Zeitwerk Date is a caliber L043.8. It provides the functions of hours, minutes, seconds, the added date complication, and a power reserve indicator of approximately 72 hours. The diameter of the movement is 37 mm with a depth of 8.9 mm. It is a manual winding type that beats at a frequency of 3 Hz at 18,000 vph. The movement features 70 jewels and contains a total of 516 components in total. The accuracy and precision is high and it shows in the selling price which we’ll get to a little later. The overall size of the watch has been enlarged to accommodate the additional complication of this magnificent and complex timepiece. Although the addition of the date may seem a trivial matter, when it comes to infusing it into the overall workings of the watch without affecting the quality of accuracy takes skill and competency which are both evidenced in this example.
The Strap
The strap is also made of high grade luxury materials. The watch is fastened to the wrist by a dark brown genuine alligator leather strap. The fastener is a prong style buckle which is crafted from the same white gold material used in the construction of its case. This final embellishment is quietly understated but works together to combine with the other elements of the watch to accomplish a perfect balance of elegance and sophistication.
Pricing and availability
The release of the new A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Date wristwatch is looming on the horizon. The manufacturer has announced that it will be made available for purchase in June of 2019. Although this watch is not specified as a limited edition, it is suspected that there will be a small number of examples produced. Although we’re informed that the pricing is subject to change during SIHH, it is currently scheduled to be offered for a cost of $96,700 per watch.
Final thoughts
The A. Lange & Sohne Zeitwerk Date watch at first glance is an eye- catching piece that is not overly done, yet exhibits a modern rendition of its predecessor with the strong DNA of the original with a distinct personality that is all its own. Although the larger size of the watch may not be ideal for everyone, it’s destined to take its place in the Zeitwerk family and has the potential to become a new favorite of the brand, at least in some circles. High quality in workmanship, innovation in design and the use of premium materials and components are all aspects of the watch which work together to establish it’s value in the category of luxury watches.
