An exhibition of A Lange & Söhne Lange 1 and Datograph watch models in London celebrates the clean design codes of German watch design. The exhibition at Phillips Perpetual, ‘Made in Germany, a Tribute to the Early Lange 1 and Datograph’, will showcase Lange 1 and Datograph models from 1994 through to 2008.
‘This exhibition celebrates the scholarship around the early Lange 1 and Datograph,’ says international director of Phillips Perpetual James Marks. ‘Both icons of design, they offered an alternative to the Swiss establishment with supreme levels of finishing and creative efficiency. We have wanted for some time to document and physically display this scholarship for our clients, collectors and lovers of the brand.
‘The time period examines the foundations of the reinvention of the brand and, one could argue, German watchmaking. We are shining a light on not only the incredible talents of individuals such as Günter Blümlein, Walter Lange and Hartmut Knothe, but also on the renaissance of watchmaking in Glashütte.’
Early production pieces on display include solid case back watches and early case back engraving watches, in beautiful displays of artistry. ‘There are also limited-edition pieces such as the Lange 1a and Datograph 403.025x Pisa,’ adds Marks. ‘Alongside these, rare examples of gem-set Datograph and Lange 1 cased in steel will be shown, bringing together the scholarship in an unparalleled physical exhibition. To my knowledge, such a collection of early Lange watches has never been shown in London at a public exhibition.’
Over 20 models will be on show, from which a progression in fonts, dials and elegant design ticks can be tracked. ‘This exhibition celebrates the scholarship around the early Lange 1 and Datograph,’ says Marks. ‘Both icons of design, they offered an alternative to the Swiss establishment with supreme levels of finishing and creative efficiency. We have wanted for some time to document and physically display this scholarship for our clients, collectors and lovers of the brand.’ §
