A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Up/Down 39mm 234.042 Wempe Limited 25 pieces 2019 [Preowned]

Overview 

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Up/Down "25th Anniversary Wempe" is an exquisite rarified edition, crafted to commemorate a quarter-century of partnership between the Glashütte manufacture and the legendary German retailer, Wempe. Limited to just 25 pieces, this reference 234.042 is far more than a simple brand collaboration; it is a celebration of the rebirth of German watchmaking excellence. By housing a highly exclusive colorway within the classic 1815 silhouette, Lange has created a timepiece that feels like a piece of living history, honoring the retail relationship that helped re-introduce the brand to the world in the 1990s.

The 39mm 18k pink gold case offers a warm, radiant glow that perfectly frames the hallmark of this anniversary edition: a sumptuous deep blue dial. While the standard 1815 models typically favor silver or black, this rich blue surface provides a striking, regal contrast to the pink gold. Drawing direct inspiration from Ferdinand Adolph Lange’s 19th-century pocket watches, the dial features a railway-track minute scale and elegant Arabic numerals. The symmetry is defined by the twin sub-dials—the small seconds at 4 o'clock and the "Auf/Ab" (Up/Down) power reserve indicator at 8 o’clock—a complication that dates back to a Lange patent from 1879.

The mechanical heart of this edition is the manually wound Calibre L051.2, a movement that serves as a canvas for the highest tiers of Saxon finishing. Visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, the movement displays the traditional three-quarter plate made of untreated German silver, which will develop a unique golden patina over time. Every hallmark of Lange’s "uncompromising" approach is present: the hand-engraved balance cock, thermally blued screws, and gold chatons held by polished screws. Each of the 25 movements is assembled twice to ensure absolute perfection, a testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of "Superlative" craftsmanship.

Completing this commemorative package is a hand-stitched alligator strap that echoes the dial’s deep blue tones, secured by a matching 18k pink gold prong buckle. The 1815 Up/Down Wempe Edition is a masterclass in horological restraint and symbolic depth. For the serious collector, it represents a rare intersection of German industrial history and artisanal beauty—a watch that doesn't shout for attention, but commands it through its impeccable pedigree and extreme scarcity.

Specifications

Condition

Preowned, Excellent Condition, Complete Original Set with Box and Papers dated June 2019

Warranty

1 year warranty from SCW.