Perhaps the most interesting watches of the “Homage to F. A. Lange” 175th Anniversary collection, the 1815 Rattrapante Honeygold “Homage to F.A. Lange” is the only watch of the trio that is a distinctly new model.

The thinnest split-seconds chronograph made by Lange to date, the 1815 Rattrapante Honeygold is the first Lange chronograph in the gold alloy, a point of distinction enhanced by the uncommon black dial.

Initial thoughts

The 1815 Rattrapante is the first watch to feature the L101.2, a new movement that’s derived from the calibre in the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar.

Surprisingly slim for a highly-complicated Lange, its appeal is boosted by the high-contrast black dial with gold markings – always an attractive combination but one rarely found on a Lange wristwatches.

That said, it is highly likely that the 1815 Rattrapante will make its way into the regular catalogue – chief executive Wilhelm Schmid explicitly declined to comment on that – which would not make this a one-off creation.

The 175th anniversary trio

Streamlined split

Undoubtedly the most interesting watch in the line up, the 1815 Rattrapante Honeygold is a brand-new model, though it is essentially a simplified version of the 1815 split-seconds with perpetual calendar. And it is the only watch in the trio that’s exclusive to Lange boutiques.

Described by Mr de Haas as a split-seconds chronograph for the client who wants something slimmer and simpler than the flagship Triple Split, the 1815 Rattrapante is unusually compact.

The 1815 Rattrapante is simpler than the Double or Triple Splits because it is a conventional split-seconds chronograph, and also lacks extras like an isolator for the split-seconds function.

The result is a watch that’s 41.2 mm wide and 12.6 mm high – slim for a split-seconds and very slim for a highly-complicated Lange.

The dial is also a departure from the brand’s usual look. It’s solid silver, as is the norm, but executed in black, instead of silver, the predominant colour for Lange dials. It’s matched with gold markings done in granular, gold powder print, along with red accents at the quarters.

The L101.2 inside is derived from the L101.1 found in the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar – the same movement but minus the perpetual calendar module.

Due to the style of the construction – developed for the movement to be as thin as possible – the L101.2 doesn’t have the visual depth of the Triple Split movement since the movements aren’t as tall. But it remains an attractive calibre that’s made even more appealing with the anniversary decor.

Key facts and price

A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Rattrapante Honeygold “Homage to F.A. Lange”
Ref. 425.050

Diameter: 41.2 mm
Height: 12.6 mm
Material: 18k Honeygold
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: L101.2
Functions: Hours, minutes, and split-seconds chronograph
Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz)
Winding: Hand-wind
Power reserve: 58 hours

Strap: Leather with 18k Honeygold pin buckle

Limited edition: 100 pieces
Availability: Starting November at boutiques only
Price: €130,000 (including 19% German VAT)

For more, visit Alange-soehne.com.