This Zeitwerk by A. Lange & Söhne makes use of an innovative digital display, inspired by the very origins of the brand itself. Introduced in 2009, it combines a striking black dial with a white gold case, powered by an impressive hand-wound movement.

Introduced in 2009, the Zeitwerk built on this legacy, and was the first mechanical wristwatch to display the time from left to right, in a digital layout. The tremendous torque required to help the hour and minute discs "jump" into place required a reengineered barrel and innovative constant force mechanism. The Zeitwerk carries a large, hand-finished "bridge" on the dial with apertures at 3 and 9 o’clock for the minutes and the hours. Placed on this same bridge is the sub-seconds display, which is mirrored by a power-reserve indicator at the top of the dial.

One alternative to the traditional hour and minute hand configuration on watches can be found in jumping hour watches, which usually feature a series of discs in different configurations, jumping with every hour change and sometimes with each minute change. An early example of a digital display can be found inside the Semper Opera House in Dresden, which Ferdinand Adolph Lange helped to develop, under the leadership of Christian Friedrich Gutkaes. In low lighting situations, the bold, oversized numerals are easier to read than a thin pair of hands.

Measuring 41.9mm by 12.9mm, the case is made from white gold, which complements the deep black dial. The case features the brand’s distinctive notched lugs, which are mirror polished and bevelled separately, then attached to the case. One of the more noticeable characteristics of this watch is the crown located at 2 o’clock, making it unobtrusive and comfortable to use.

The architecture of A. Lange and Söhne movements are perhaps their most distinctive feature, with a three-dimensional aspect that is truly unique. Every bridge is ribbed, polished and chamfered, with a hand engraved balance cock bringing an additional flourish. This is particularly impressive considering the three large discs that must be moved to display the time. With 36 hours of power reserve, this is made possible through a remontoir, integrated between the barrel wheel and the balance. This mechanism gains, holds, and releases the energy required to move each disc every 60 seconds in a small burst of power, and then over the remaining minute rebuilds, continuing in a cycle.

Closer look

This A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk is in very good condition throughout. The case and lugs show virtually no signs of wear. The hallmarks and engravings on the case back are crisp and well defined.

The watch was recently returned from servicing with A. Lange & Söhne in London and comes with the remainder of its servicing warranty, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity from A Collected Man.