Introduction
Following the collapse of East Germany, Walter Lange immediately set about creating four timepieces that he would launch during his bid to revive his great-grandfather’s iconic company in 1994. While three of those models were created for men, one of them was designed for ladies, the Arkade. Originally controversial due to its presence as a legitimate piece of watchmaking, the Arkade broke from the norm due to its use of high-end luxury watchmaking, something that other watchmakers had yet to begin doing as they instead created luxury female timepieces with quartz movements and elaborate gem-set designs that did not feature movements to match their price tag. Lange broke from this norm and created the Arkade after taking inspiration from the arcades in the courtyard of Dresden Castle, which led to the arch-like shape of its case. Featuring a large date display, as is Lange’s signature, the Arkade feels every bit like a Lange timepiece as any men’s model, and rightfully so, with its stunning silver dial and exhibition caseback showing off what made it so unique for its time.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
A. Lange & Sohne
Dimensions
29mm x 22mm
Model
Arkade
Movement
Manual-wind cal. L911.4
Reference
103.021
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1990s
Condition
Near-Mint
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
Condition
Watch is in overall near mint condition. Seemingly kept in a time capsule, the case has developed a rosy patina over the years. The surfaces are sharp and crisp, as are the hallmarks. Minor wear from hadling visible in some areas, such as the buckle.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
An iconic watch that contributed to the newfound focus that brands finally began to give the luxury women's timepiece as a category of watchmaking in and of itself, the Arkade is arguably just as iconic as the three other watches it was launched in tandem with, if not more.