A. Lange & Söhne Grand Complication Tokyo
Complications

A. Lange & Söhne Grand Complication Tokyo

By KIH · Oct 11, 2013 · 18 replies
KIH
WPS member · A. Lange & Söhne forum
18 replies4406 views35 photos
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KIH's follow-up report on the A. Lange & Söhne Grand Complication event in Tokyo offers an exclusive look into a high-horology gathering. This article captures the luxurious ambiance of La Tour d'Argent Tokyo, providing readers with a sense of the brand's commitment to exceptional experiences. It highlights presentations by key figures like Mr. Einhorn and Mr. De Haas, focusing on the technical marvels and historical significance of the Grand Complication, making it a valuable resource for enthusiasts of complex watchmaking.

I was again invited to the Press Luncheon today, at La Tour d'Argent Tokyo, which is opened in 1984 as its first overseas branch....  Just a bit of more information I was wondering since the dinner two days ago and additional photo report.....  Enjoy!


I always love their invitation smile  Date window shows the event date....




Entrance of THE restaurant - different venue from two nights ago.













La Tour d'Argent!




And, as always, attention to details.....
















La Tour d'Argent carpet smile





Just wanted to take the ceiling glass.....




Last minute meeting?




Mr. Einhorn's presentation of the history and what has been achieved as well as what is ahead.




Again, Mr. De Haas' humorous presentation to let the audience hear the Grande Sonnerie at 12:45 (see below thread to hear the sound).




Also explained the other functions.
He had to leave right after this to catch the plane.  See you again soon, Mr. De Haas!





Same style menu.













1st plate - what?




Ah!  watch!




2nd plate - ah!  watch again!




3rd plate - oh, my, yet another watch!




Main - don't know what this is.... named "Tradition and Innovation".... "10"?




Dessert - the pocket watch of Wilhelm II.  Hmnn.




Cards for all the guests who visit here, with number!









Now displayed watches:

#1 Handwerkskunst




#2 Handwerkskunst




... and #3 Handwerkskunst

(note that #1 and #2 belong to a big Lange collector - thank you!)




Now the close-up of the enamel dial.




Notice the month indicator (PG hand) - 48 months dial.
(Blue dial is the minute counter of the chronograph)




Very, very well made enamel dial.




Also noteworthy is that this blue sky of the moonphase disc is also ENAMEL!!!








Further info to supplement:
- Minute repeater "slider/ lever": Looks like it, but it is actually a switch, as discussed in the thread below.  push down to the lower lug side for just 1mm or 2 would start the minute repeater.
- Then, how the power to "ding" be generated and stored? - as with other Grand/ Petite Sonnerie, by winding the crown.  Clock-wise, winding for the watch.  Counter clockwise, winding for the sounding.


Hope this clears up more about this super piece.

Best,
Ken

This message has been edited by KIH on 2013-10-12 20:00:01

About the A. Lange and Söhne Emil Lange Ref. 1815

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 reference 206.032, introduced in 1999, is a notable example of the brand's commitment to traditional watchmaking principles. This model is part of the 1815 collection, which pays homage to the birth year of Ferdinand Adolph Lange and emphasizes classic design elements such as Arabic numerals and blued hands, drawing inspiration from historical Lange pocket watches. It represents a more understated and purist aesthetic compared to some of the brand's more complex offerings, focusing on fundamental horological excellence.

This particular reference features an 18k rose gold case measuring 36mm in diameter and 7.5mm in thickness. It houses the manually wound L941.1 caliber, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal on the front, protecting a solid silver dial. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear but not for immersion.

The 1815 206.032 appeals to collectors who appreciate classical proportions and a focus on fundamental watchmaking without excessive complications. Its smaller case size reflects a more traditional approach to men's wristwatches, making it a desirable piece for those seeking a discreet yet highly refined timepiece. The combination of rose gold and a silver dial offers a warm and legible presentation, consistent with the collection's historical inspirations.

Specifications

Caliber
L941.1
Case
18k rose gold
Diameter
36mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
TA
takashi78
Oct 11, 2013

Didnt know they had a branch in Tokyo. Seems a lot of famous restaurants only choose Tokyo as their first or one and only overseas branch. And i was gonna ask if you had the famous duck. Looking at your pics and its almost dinner time here....

KI
KIH
Oct 11, 2013

... if my memory is still functioning.... Drinking Champagne, wine, etc. made me a bit drunk and dizzy.... Wanted to go home and to bed, but I am still working.... for PPro :-) Have to do the real job from now until perhaps early tomorrow morning. Oh, dinner time here, too. I am still full, mother! Ken

MA
masterspiece
Oct 11, 2013

It's very Porcelain-luke. It must be a real beauty in real life. Thanks for "trudging" through the champagne, wine and all to bring us this report. :-) Aloha, Bob

PA
patrick_y
Oct 11, 2013

Those are some amazing dishes! Thanks for sharing Ken! Looks great!

HO
Horology75
Oct 11, 2013

We are looking forward to one happening in Dubai in November. Thanks for the lovely report! ovi

KI
KIH
Oct 11, 2013

... such a great length for Lange.. :-) Thank you, Patrick! Ken

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