Story Highlight
– A. Lange & Söhne launched new Saxonia Thin models.
– Models feature 750 Honeygold and 950 Platinum cases.
– Each watch limited to 200 pieces, priced €45,000.
– Calibre L093.1 offers 72-hour power reserve and reliability.
– Honeygold’s rarity enhances its appeal to collectors.
Full Story
A. Lange & Söhne has unveiled its latest additions to the esteemed Saxonia Thin collection at the Watches & Wonders event, featuring two elegant limited editions crafted in 750 Honeygold and 950 Platinum. These new versions, distinguished by their striking 925 silver dials topped with black onyx, address the demand for a larger dress watch amid the ongoing popularity of the 34mm 1815 model, which received widespread acclaim.
Measuring 40mm in diameter with a thickness of just 6.2mm, both models house the manually wound Calibre L093.1 movement, which, despite its 28mm diameter that appears modest when viewed from the caseback, delivers a substantial 72-hour power reserve. Operating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, the movement also features 21 jewels, three gold chatons secured with screws, a shock-resistant balance, and a handcrafted balance spring. Originally introduced in 2011, this movement remains a celebrated choice, offering reliability without the need for upgrades due to its impressive performance.
The aesthetic appeal of the new Saxonia Thin models is undeniable. The Honeygold option is particularly compelling for collectors, thanks to its distinctive sheen, while the platinum alternative appeals to those who prefer a minimalist yet sophisticated white metal finish. Both models are produced in a limited run of 200 pieces, each priced around €45,000.
Collecting high-quality dress watches with black dials and gold cases has become increasingly rare, a fact not lost on industry insiders. Tony de Haas, Director of Product Development at Lange, noted that the development team experimented with various case materials alongside the onyx dial before settling on these two successful combinations. The decision to avoid white gold stemmed from a belief that it lacked the uniqueness required for this particular treatment. In testing, both Honeygold and platinum proved to be striking choices, enhancing the overall aesthetic while allowing for hints of yellow and rose to remain visible in the Honeygold variant.
The brand has held the use of Honeygold relatively rare, as its challenging fabrication limits the volume of cases that can be produced. Recent models such as the Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Lumen and Honeygold Odysseus suggest a trend towards utilizing this exclusive material. However, de Haas reassured that its limited availability would maintain its distinctiveness amid potential consumer interest.
**Key Specifications:**
– **Brand:** A. Lange & Söhne
– **Model:** Saxonia Thin
– **Reference Numbers:** 211.052 for Honeygold, 211.062 for Platinum
– **Diameter:** 40mm
– **Thickness:** 6.2mm
– **Case Materials:** 750 Honeygold; 950 Platinum
– **Dial Color:** 925 silver with black onyx overlay
– **Indexes:** 750 gold, rhodium-plated
– **Lume:** None
– **Water Resistance:** 30 meters
– **Strap:** Glossy black alligator leather; prong buckle matching case material
**Movement Details:**
– **Caliber:** Calibre L093.1
– **Functions:** Hours and minutes
– **Diameter:** 28mm
– **Thickness:** 2.9mm
– **Power Reserve:** 72 hours
– **Winding:** Manual
– **Frequency:** 21,600 vph
– **Jewels:** 21
– **Additional Features:** Plates and bridges made of untreated German silver; hand-engraved balance cock
**Availability and Pricing:**
– **Price:** Approximately €45,000
– **Availability:** Currently offered as a limited edition, with a cap of 200 pieces for each model.