This Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon ref. 740.036* in platinum was released in 2016. An undoubtedly impressive watch, the dial retains the classic Datograph layout while balancing the addition of a perpetual calendar complication. Turning over the watch reveals the beautifully crafted tourbillon, with excellent finishing and decoration that we have come to expect from the brand.

This Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon 740.036 is an ambitious and undoubtedly impressive watch from A. Lange & Söhne. While the brand had previously created perpetual calendar and chronograph pieces separately, this was the first time that all three complications were combined into a single watch. This reference 740.036FE was introduced in 2016, one of the first few to be released, and only 100 examples were produced.

The dial retains the classic Datograph layout, with a striking black dial and white indications. Overall, the dial is carefully designed dial, balancing the different elements throughout without overwhelming the eye. The date aperture and combined month/day-chronograph-function sub-dials form an equilateral triangle, with the central point being the pinions in the middle, which hold the hands in place. The sub-dials themselves are stepped, allowing each ring of information to be distinct from the others, while a combination of thinner hands for the chronograph functions and thicker leaf-shaped hands for the months and days give further visual separation. A moonphase also sits just above 6 o'clock, in a blue that provides contrast against the dark dial.

Turning the watch over reveals the impressive architectural depth of the calibre L952.2, which is made from 729 parts. The challenge with this movement was for them to maintain the aesthetics of the L951.1, the original Datograph movement, while also keeping the proportions in mind, as well as adapting the movement to include a tourbillon.

On most watches, the tourbillon complication is placed prominently on the dial, but with this reference 740.036, the tourbillon cage is given pride of place at 6 o'clock on the reverse of the watch, featuring a sharply finished and polished carriage and bridge. The three arms of the tourbillon are hand finished and excellently bevelled, with polishing from all sides. Additionally, it features a stop-tourbillon mechanism first introduced by the brand in 2008, which gently stops the balance wheel at the pull of the crown, allowing for more accurate time-setting.

As is the case with all of A. Lange & Söhne watches, the movement is made from German silver, and features beautifully polished and finished parts, with brushed and chamfered levers, perlage decoration on the base plate, and Geneva stripes. In keeping with the many complications that this watch houses, the watch has a diameter of 41.9mm, and is 14.6mm thick, making it an assertive presence on the wrist.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon is in excellent overall condition. Light superficial marks are found on the case and lugs, though only on the very surface of the material. The dial, hands, and movement are free of any signs of imperfections. The hallmarks and engravings on the caseback and buckle are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.