Released in 1994 as one of A. Lange & Söhne’s original watches after their relaunch, the Lange 1 is widely considered one of the most recognizable watches Lange has ever created. With its off-center outsize date indication - inspired by the Five-Minute Clock in the Semper Opera House, asymmetrically positioned hour and minute sub-dial, seconds sub-dial at 5 o’clock, and a power-reserve indicator at 3 o’clock, the Lange 1 has become a staple within the brand’s portfolio of iconic timepieces. Featuring its heritage-inspired design, the Lange 1 ref. 101.026 portrays the Lange 1’s classic aesthetic through the use of a traditional color scheme that is achieved by its use of a stunning silver dial and exceedingly rare, for Lange, stainless steel construction. Presented in a perfectly wearable 38.5mm steel case, the ref. 101.026 remains refined and balanced nicely on the wrist – a nice change of pace from its larger sibling variants, and the generally larger watches that have flooded the market in recent years. Combining this wearability with its understated design, the ref. 101.026 is unreservedly ‘Lange’ in its execution. With its immaculately finished manual-wind cal. L901 on display behind its exhibition caseback, it carries its impeccable craftsmanship through its entire construction right through to its movement, a testament to Lange’s unwavering dedication to their timepieces and their commitment to impeccable craftsmanship. Although exact production numbers are unknown, it is said that there were less than 30 examples ever produced. The ref. 101.026 is perhaps the Lange collector’s ultimate watch to have given its stealth good looks and its true rarity.

We are proud to bring to market this ultra-rare A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 101.026 in stainless steel. Perhaps the most coveted of all early Lange's, this auction represents a rare opportunity to add this unicorn to your collection.