Introducing The A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down Limited Edition

Originally launched in 1999, the Datograph was Lange's first chronograph, and the model has since become a platform for some of the brand's most impressive watchmaking. For Watches & Wonders 2024, and indeed for the Dato's 25th birthday, Lange has announced a limited edition model with a blue dial tucked into a white gold case. With only 125 pieces being made, this Datograph has a power reserve and offers both a case metal and a dial color that is not part of the current collection for the Datograph Up/Down. 

Forming just one aspect of Lange's 30th-anniversary celebration, this limited edition Datograph (ref. 405.028) follows the format of the current model (which is available in platinum or pink gold, both with a black dial). Similar to the Datograph Up/Down Lumen that was released as a 200-piece limited edition in 2018, this blue-dialed model takes an appealing format and presents it in a special new version that is reminiscent of the unique blue dial/platinum 403.035 (read more here in SJX's Collector's Guide). Measuring 41mm wide and 13.1mm thick, the 405.028 offers time via the central hour and minutes hands along with a flyback chronograph, an elapsed minute display that jumps for each minute, a two-digit "outsize" date, and a power reserve indication. Controls include a conventional crown, two pushers for the chronograph, and a corrector to help quick-set the date display. 

All of that functionality is supported by Lange's L951.6 movement, which is a hand-wound caliber that was originally launched in 2012 for the Datograph Up/Down's original release (you can see our original coverage here). Comprised of some 451 components, the L951.6 ticks at 2.5 Hz and has a power reserve of 60 hours. Being a Lange – let alone an extra special one – the movement is largely made of German silver, and each element has been beautifully hand-finished (right down to the hand-engraved balance cock). 

Limited to 125 pieces in white gold, this Datograph is meant as a special creation for Lange collectors. As such, and just as is the case with the currently listed Datograph Up/Downs on Lange's website, no pricing information is publicly available. I asked Lange, and they suggested that interested parties should contact their dealer of choice for more information. 

Given that the brand has already played the Lumen card for the Datograph Up/Down, this subtle blue dialed iteration offers a special option for folks looking to get in on the Datograph's 25th birthday with a seriously limited special model from the brand. While certainly a long way from a hot take, I think that white gold and a blue dial look absolutely lovely for this iteration of the Datograph, and it's always a treat to take a closer look at the model and its impressively symmetrical dial design. 

If some 25 years into the run, you're unsure of what makes the Datograph just so special (both to Lange and to haute horology collectors), I highly recommend reading this great In-Depth about the model that Cole Pennington wrote for Hodinkee back in 2024. The Datograph remains a special and specific touchpoint for Lange as it forms a considerable element of what makes this still-young brand just so special and collectible. As A. Lange & Söhne celebrates its 30th birthday, it's of little surprise then that the brand would want to do so with a special nod to the Datograph and all that is has meant to Lange over the past 25 years. 

Brand: A. Lange & Söhne
Model: Datograph Up/Down Limited Edition
Reference Number: 405.028

Diameter: 41mm
Thickness: 13.1mm
Case Material: White gold
Dial Color: Blue
Water Resistance: Not listed
Strap/Bracelet: Blue gator with 18k white gold pin-buckle 

Caliber: Lange manfuacture L951.6
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph with central flyback seconds, jumping minutes, power reserve indication, and grand date display
Diameter: 30.6mm
Thickness: 7.9mm
Power Reserve: 60 hours
Winding: Manually wound
Frequency: 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz)
Jewels: 46

Price: Available on request
Limited Edition: Yes, 125 pieces