Introduction
When A. Lange & Söhne unveiled the Zeitwerk in 2009, it challenged one of the oldest conventions in watchmaking: the analogue display of time. Rather than relying on traditional hands, the Zeitwerk became the world's first serially produced mechanical wristwatch to display the hours and minutes digitally from left to right through jumping numeral discs. While digital displays had appeared in mechanical clocks for centuries, translating the concept into a wristwatch required an entirely new movement architecture and represented one of the most significant technical achievements of modern haute horlogerie.
At the heart of the Zeitwerk is the remarkable calibre L043.1, developed specifically to deliver the immense energy required to advance three oversized display discs simultaneously every sixty minutes. To ensure perfectly consistent power delivery, A. Lange & Söhne incorporated a constant-force escapement, guaranteeing stable amplitude while producing the crisp, instantaneous jumping display that defines the watch. Framed by the manufacture's signature time bridge and housed within a substantial platinum case, the Zeitwerk combines unmistakable aesthetics with extraordinary engineering. This example belongs to the original limited edition of just 200 platinum pieces, representing the inaugural chapter of one of A. Lange & Söhne's most revolutionary and celebrated modern creations.
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Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and papers
Est. value range
$70,000 – $100,000
The Details
Brand
A. Lange & Sohne
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Zeitwerk
Movement
Manual-wind calibre L043.1
Reference
140.025
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 2009
Condition
Excellent
Material
Platinum
Included
Box and papers
Dial Color
Silvered
THE DIAL
The silvered dial is dominated by Lange's distinctive German silver time bridge, which frames the digital hour and minute apertures while anchoring the small seconds and power reserve display. The result is a strikingly architectural design that has become one of the defining aesthetics of contemporary watchmaking.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Crafted in platinum, the 42mm case provides an imposing yet elegant presence on the wrist. A sapphire display back secured by six screws reveals the beautifully finished movement, while this example's engraving of 010/200 confirms its place within the original limited edition that introduced the Zeitwerk to the world.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The platinum case shows light surface scratches, with a more noticeable nick to the bezel near the 1 o'clock position. The display case back retains crisp engravings and hallmarks. The dial and hands are like new. It is fitted with a black leather strap and a platinum A. Lange & Söhne pin buckle showing light surface scuffs. Comes with the inner and outer boxes, warranty, booklet, and document holder.
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
Few watches have altered the landscape of modern haute horlogerie as profoundly as the original Zeitwerk. It is simultaneously an engineering triumph, an unmistakable design icon and one of the defining creations of twenty-first century watchmaking. As one of just 200 platinum examples from the inaugural release, this reference captures the moment A. Lange & Söhne proved that genuine innovation could still redefine how mechanical time is displayed.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
