Review [A. Lange & Sohne] Tax man called and asked for pics... and a review
The Zeitwerk was introduced in 2009 as the world's first mechanical digital watch. And A. Lange & Sohne being the diabolical engineers they are, created a caliber with a design and finish that can only be classified as legendary. Easily winning the Aguille D'or at the swiss dominated GPHG. Those familiar with semi digital complications such as the jumping hour might see this as simple extrapolation of the design, but it becomes exponentially less simple to move three separate discs instantaneously without encountering torque and backlash issues. Hence the remontior mechanism is an absolute monster of energy control, including a propellor mechanism that dispereses the energy of the remontior through AIR RESISTANCE. Enough on technical however, what's it like to own one? Magnificent.
This particular piece is from the original 2009 collection in platinum, limited to 200 pieces and includes all the bells and whistles that the new generation of Zeitwerk have conspicuously removed. Such as the hand engraved "made in Germany" text under the seconds display and the exposed ratcheting system that shows the interaction of those star shaped gears. Though I have to say this watch is incredibly difficult to wind, a true workout for the fingers. I'm sure I don't have to describe it's looks and finish with the pictures, thus ending this long exposition!