A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar

In the realm of horology, where art meets mechanics, the new 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar by A. Lange & Söhne marks a symphony of classical elegance and intricate craftsmanship. A manifestation of three of the most complex watchmaking innovations, the watch showcases the rare combination of a rattrapante chronograph with a perpetual calendar. This elegant symbiosis is presented in an 18-carat white gold case, contrasting perfectly with the pink-gold dial. With only 100 pieces available, this creation sets a new benchmark for timepieces.

Launched in 2013, the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar heralded a significant phase in A. Lange & Söhne’s history. Built on the success of seven chronograph calibres crafted by the Saxon manufacturer, this watch represents more than a mere instrument of time. Harmonizing three elaborate complications, it remains loyal to the aesthetic roots of the 1815 family. A marvel in both short-time measurement and calendar display, it stands as an emblem of precision and beauty.

The rattrapante function of this timepiece is considered one of horology’s most significant challenges. More than a conventional chronograph, its sophisticated mechanics measure intermediate and comparative times with the precision of one-sixth of a second. Ensuring accuracy is the manufacture calibre L101.1’s balance wheel, beating with six semi-oscillations per second. The sapphire-crystal caseback permits a mesmerizing view of the intricately orchestrated movement, where technology meets artistry. The polished peripheral chamfers and straight graining reflect A. Lange & Söhne’s commitment to excellence, only achievable by a skilled finisseur.

While the rattrapante function measures fractions of a second, the perpetual calendar’s remarkable feature is its ‘long-term memory’. Programmed to reflect the date, day, and month accurately, this complex mechanism accounts for leap years, only needing correction on 1 March 2100. Such foresight extends to the moon-phase display, calibrated to require adjustment only after 122.6 years.

Aesthetically, the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar is no less fascinating. Following the aesthetic lineage of the Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon (2019) and the Lange 1 Perpetual Calendar (2021), it is adorned with an 18-carat pink gold dial. This warm hue elegantly contrasts with the cool white gold of the case, complemented by Arabic numerals and the four subsidiary dials. Named after Ferdinand Adolph Lange’s birth year, the watch resonates with the essence of the Lange heritage.

Its design echoes the aesthetics of Lange pocket watches, with calendar indications at 3 and 9 o’clock and a colorful moon-phase display. Both minute counter and power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock complete this masterpiece.

The manually wound movement L101.1, with 631 individual parts, showcases traditional design and engineering. The perpetual calendar and rattrapante-chronograph mechanisms consist of 211 and 206 components, respectively. Enhanced by a screw balance and in-house manufactured balance spring, the quality is seen in every detail, from blued screws to hand-engraved balance cock, visible through the sapphire-crystal caseback.

Unchanged in dimensions at 41.9 millimeters in diameter and 14.7 millimeters in height, the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar stands as a symbol of continuity in innovation. In addition to the limited 100-piece white gold and pink-gold dial combination, it also comes in platinum/argenté and pink-gold/argenté case/dial. In the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar, A. Lange & Söhne has successfully encapsulated an essence of time that transcends mere function. A sublime interplay of elegance, complexity, and heritage, it sets a standard for contemporary watchmaking, reflecting the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection in every intricate detail.