A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 101.021 Yellow Gold Review

christianch · 2015-02-09T12:44:38Z

Christianch reviews his A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 101.021 in yellow gold, comparing it to other Lange 1 models. Discover its unique charm.

christianch

WPS member · A. Lange & Söhne forum

25 replies10417 views17 photos

Christianch shares his profound excitement over acquiring the A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Ref. 101.021 in yellow gold, a watch he considers a personal grail. His post provides a comparative look at various Lange 1 models, including the Grand Lange 1 and Lange 1 Daymatic, offering valuable insights into his decision-making process and appreciation for the brand's distinct aesthetic.

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Today I have acquired a very special watch: The Lange 1 in Yellow Gold (101.021). More than a watch a dream or perhaps the ultimate grail ?

There is something special in the Lange 1 from A. Lange & Söhne that I didn't find in other high brands (including Patek). Perhaps it is the austere charm vs. the more romantic lines of the Swiss (French side) counterparts.

I was initially looking for white gold but after I tried on the yellow gold I realised that it was a better fit for me (admittedly the white gold with silver dial is perhaps a bit more austere. In the new line of the Lange 1 the white gold is not yet planned)

The unique dial setting with the power reserve (ab / auf) display and the big date set the lange 1 apart from any other high end watch

I compared the Lange 1 also with the Grand Lange 1 that, at 41mm is still very wearable and perhaps

even more contemporary. Here is the Platinum Version

and the Grand Lange 1 in white gold and black dial - a very nice combination

Another intriguing Lange watch is the Lange 1 Daymatic. At 39.5 mm is in between the lange 1 and grand lange 1.

The daymatic is perhaps not as much appreciated as it should - it is really a special watch and the automatic movement

and the day-date function with the time dial on the right side makes it a very distinct lange 1

Back to my choice which is the lange 1 classic (38.5 mm) in yellow gold. I understand that is not

as loved as the rose gold that is more popular nowadays. I have several rose gold watches and only one

in yellow gold. I think it is the perfect size for me and I love the champagne dial

Obviously the uniqueness of the Lange 1 is on the movement: very distinct and different than the Swiss style

and absolutely stunning.

The box is simple yet gorgeous. There is some austerity and German precision in the whole packaging, including the dark green

color of the outer box

Here it is ready for a new adventure

And on my wrist at the office

The Buckle finish is outstanding and the strap is very comfortable

At the sun

The engine at the sun

Conclusions: There is really no other watch like the Lange 1 - I appreciate that this sounds very corny from a new

owner (and these "in love" reviews might not always be as interesting or accurate) but the watch is certainly a very

elegant classic with a very distinct identity vs. other Swiss brands. In terms of finish and movement I find it much more rewarding than other high-end watches that I own.

I think that the Lange 1 might be to many the "ultimate" grail because is the watch of the true connoisseur

Thanks again for reading and to all the forums members that helped me in my choice !

Do you own a Lange 1 too ? feel free to share the love and reply with some of your photos

Christian

About the A. Lange and Söhne Lange 1 18kt Yellow Gold Ref. 101.021

The A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 reference 101.021 is a foundational model within the brand's contemporary history, representing one of the original four watches introduced in 1994 that marked the revival of A. Lange & Söhne. This specific reference, with its yellow gold case and champagne dial, exemplifies the distinctive design language of the Lange 1, characterized by its off-center dial layout, patented outsize date, and power reserve indicator. It is a manually wound timepiece that quickly established itself as a cornerstone of high-end German watchmaking.

The watch features an 18kt yellow gold case measuring 38.5mm in diameter and 10mm in thickness. It is equipped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal on both the front and the display case back, showcasing the meticulously finished L901.0 manual wind caliber. This movement provides a substantial power reserve of 72 hours, a practical feature for a manually wound watch. The solid yellow gold case is complemented by a fixed bezel and a champagne-colored dial.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate the historical significance of the original Lange 1 series and the brand's commitment to traditional Saxon watchmaking. Its classic material and dial combination make it a versatile choice, while the unique dial architecture ensures its distinct identity. The 101.021 is a key piece for understanding the aesthetic and mechanical principles that define A. Lange & Söhne's modern era, offering a direct link to the brand's re-establishment.

Specifications

Caliber: L901.0

Case: 18kt Yellow Gold

Diameter: 38.5

Dial: Champagne

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Scratch Resistant Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The yellow gold Lange 1 with its champagne dial is praised for its warmth and classic appeal, with the original author expressing deep satisfaction with this specific choice over other metal options.
The Lange 1's unique dial layout, featuring the power reserve and big date, is highlighted as a distinguishing characteristic that sets it apart from other high-end watches.
The Lange 1 Daymatic, with its automatic movement and day-date function, is noted for its practicality and distinct time display on the right side, though it is less commonly discussed among collectors.
The movement of the Lange 1 is recognized for its distinct German style and stunning finishing, which is appreciated for its difference from traditional Swiss watchmaking.
The original author expressed gratitude for community support after a significant purchase, highlighting the importance of shared enthusiasm among collectors.
A fellow collector congratulated the author on achieving a dream acquisition, emphasizing the iconic status of the Lange 1 and the beauty of the yellow gold choice.

The Discussion

foversta

Feb 9, 2015

Huge congrats Christian!

You bought THE first Lange One... well there were some minor changes like the solid caseback but the first Lange One was coming with a yellow case! Congrats! Fx

christianch

Feb 9, 2015

Thanks a lot :) a Very Happy New Year to you too :)

Thanks a lot :) appreciated your help in the decision - very happy with my choice - like you said a classic and can't go wrong with it :)

TheMadDruid

Feb 9, 2015

Congratulations!

When it was time for me to invest in a Lange 1 there was only one choice-the yellow gold. I think the Champagne dial is just gorgeous. Were yours in good health.

christianch

Feb 9, 2015

thank you Padj..indeed

Indeed I think the champagne dial is stunning and special ! very happy with my choice. Thanks a lot for the kind wishes :) Christian

amanico

Feb 9, 2015

You are right, the Lange One is an icon, in my book.

There is no other Watch like the Lange One. I agree with that. Congratulations for both your Watch and your review! Best, Nicolas

christianch

Feb 9, 2015

Thank you Nicolas :) [nt]