German master watchmaker A. Lange & Söhne has introduced a striking new iteration of one of its most beloved contemporary complications. Alongside the technical powerhouse that is the brand’s latest Triple Split chronograph, the manufacture from Glashütte has revealed a pair of limited-edition 1815 Up/Down references. Featuring captivating blue dials and a return to more classic, downsized proportions, these new releases offer both a fresh aesthetic livery and a deeply compelling proposition for collectors and enthusiasts of independent high horology.
Available in a choice of white gold or pink gold, the new limited-edition 1815 Up/Down models mark a deliberate return to smaller case dimensions. Measuring 37.5mm in diameter, these cases are noticeably more compact than the standard-production 39mm 1815 Up/Down variants currently found in the brand’s core collection. While this is not the absolute first time the 1815 Up/Down has been realized in a 37.5mm format—a distinction previously held by the limited-edition 1815 Up/Down "Homage to Walter Lange"—this sizing occupies a sweet spot in the historical spectrum of the line. Positioned directly between the first generation’s compact 35.9mm case and the later second generation’s 39mm footprint, this renewed diameter serves as a welcome nod to vintage sensibilities while retaining a modern wrist presence. Despite the reduction in diameter, the case thickness remains comfortably unchanged at an ultra-slim 8.7 millimeters.
The aesthetic centerpiece of these new releases is undoubtedly the dial. Rendered in a distinctive shade of blue, the dial immediately draws the eye with its contrasting subdials, which highlight the rich metallic texture of the underlying 925 silver base. Delicate snailing is etched underneath the printed scales of the power reserve indicator—traditionally marked as "AUF/AB," translating to "Up/Down"—situated on the left side of the dial, as well as on the small seconds track positioned on the right.
This layout stays true to the signature design traits of the pocket watch-inspired 1815 collection. The periphery of the dial is framed by a crisp railroad-style minutes track, complemented by classic Arabic hour numerals rendered in clean typography. Even with the downsizing of the overall dial canvas, the visual proportions have been meticulously managed so that none of the hour numerals are awkwardly truncated or cut off by the subdials. For the hardware appointments, the white gold and pink gold cases are paired with matching gold hour and minute hands, while the smaller hands governing the power reserve and small seconds functions are fashioned from thermally blued steel, adding a vibrant flash of color against the blue and silver backdrop.
Beneath the sapphire crystal caseback beats the same exceptional manually wound L051.2 caliber that powers the current 39mm models. This proprietary movement boasts a robust 72-hour power reserve delivered by a single mainspring barrel and operates at a traditional beat rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour. True to the standards of the Glashütte manufacture, the movement finishing is nothing short of breathtaking. The German silver three-quarter plate is adorned with traditional Glashütte ribbing, while hand-engraved balance cocks, chatons secured by thermally blued screws, and flawless anglage showcase the pinnacle of Saxon watchmaking craftsmanship.
Both the white gold and pink gold variations are produced as limited editions of 300 individually numbered pieces, ensuring a high degree of exclusivity. The timepieces are paired with elegant alligator leather straps and are available directly through authorized A. Lange & Söhne boutiques at a retail price of approximately EUR 45,000.
For seasoned collectors, this new execution inevitably evokes memories of the first-generation 35.9mm blue-dialed 1815 Up/Down, reference 221.027, which remains a revered modern classic on the secondary market. However, a closer examination reveals that the hues are distinct; the new blue dial adopts a slightly dustier, more subdued tone compared to the deep navy lacquer found on its predecessor.
The refined proportions strike an exceptional balance on the wrist, offering a comfortable daily wear experience for those who favor traditional dress watch dimensions. The introduction of contrasting subdials breathes fresh life into the established design code, offering a subtle yet effective twist on a familiar formula. More broadly, this release underscores a broader trend from the brand toward offering downsized case options across its catalog, a move that is sure to please connoisseurs of classic proportions.
Brand: A. Lange & Söhne
Model: 1815 Up/Down
Reference Numbers: 244.037 (pink gold); 244.028 (white gold)
Diameter: 37.5mm
Thickness: 8.7mm
Case Material: White or pink gold
Dial Color: Blue
Indexes: Printed
Lume: No
Water Resistance: 3 bar
Strap/Bracelet: Alligator leather strap
Caliber: L051.2
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, power reserve indicator
Diameter: 30.6mm
Thickness: 4.6mm
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Winding: Manual
Frequency: 21,600 VpH
Jewels: 29
Chronometer Certified: No
Price: Approximately EUR 45,000
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: Yes, 300 pieces each.
