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. Combining its heritage-inspired design, the Lange 1 ref. 101.030 retains the Lange 1’s classic aesthetic through the use of a monochromatic color scheme, achieved by its use of a stunning grey dial. Presented in a perfectly wearable 38.5mm white gold case, the ref. 101.030 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. 101.030 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 dedication to their timepieces.

A wonderfully wearable version of the Lange 1, the ref. 101.030 merges the Lange 1's traditional design and iconic layout with a comfortable 38.5mm case to ensure it is easily wearable for the majority of collectors. Perhaps one of the rarest 101 variants, the 101.030's monochromatic look and Goldilock's size make it my absolute personal favorite Lange 1.