John Thoelke 05 May 2024

A. Lange & Söhne has been a partner of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este since 2012 and is once again awarding a special edition to the winner of the competition for classic automobiles this year. From 24 to 26 May, lovers of outstanding classic vehicles will meet in Cernobbio in northern Italy with a view of Lake Como. In the grounds of the Villa d’Este, participants will compete for the favour of the jury in various competitions. The overall winner will receive the ‘Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show’ and a bespoke A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph presented by Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid. The back of the “Como Edition” reveals a hand-engraved hinged case back that honours the event. Underneath, the sapphire crystal back reveals the precision mechanics for which the company is so renowned.

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The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

The watch has a stainless steel case measuring 39.5 mm in diameter. The 1815 case has a robust yet elegant design. While the bezel is polished, the centre section is brushed all around. Elsewhere, the solid red gold dial has a flange with tachymetre scale. There are also two darkened counters on the salmon-coloured background. The back features a hand-engraved hinged case back. It bears the logo of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and the corresponding year. Underneath, a sapphire crystal glas is exposing the dazzling mechanics.

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The calibre L951.5 is a true Glashütte chronograph. It naturally features column wheel, precisely jumping minute counter and flyback function. The balance beats at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 hertz) allowing time measurements to the nearest fifth of a second. The hand-wound movement also offers a power reserve of 60 hours. The chronograph comprises a column wheel and a vertical clutch. Of course, the mechanics are finished to delightfully high quality.