The Lange 1 is widely considered the model that most efficiently captures A. Lange & Söhne's principles as a Teutonic watchmaker. With its characterful double date aperture inspired by Dresden's Semper Opera House, unconventional dial design abiding by the mathematics of the golden ratio, and a fit and finish any legacy watchmaker would be proud of, it's a young but hugely significant creation. When the Lange 1 was introduced in 1994, it didn't go unnoticed. Alongside three additional inaugural releases for their re-launch by Walter Lange, the Lange 1 went a long way to define the brand's approach to horology. A traditionally complicated watch combined with novel takes on the Germanic style, and a product-first attitude ensured Walter Lange's efforts would make his great-grandfather, the founder of Lange in 1845, proud. All styles of Lange 1 models have maintained a certain level of affection and allure from collectors around the world, but its early references, alongside the low-numbered special edition releases that represent the pinnacle of a Lange 1 connoisseur's collection.

And then we have the 'secret references' such as the 101.027X. Shrouded in mystery, this particularly scarce configuration and existence have an extremely muted presence, never appearing in official literature from A. Lange and Söhne. The 101.027X is commonly referred to as a 'secret reference' by Lange connoisseurs, with its realisation only discussed by collector insiders. The origin and subsequent discretions surrounding its existence are up for debate, as popular A. Lange & Söhne encyclopedia langepedia.com suggests that its existence is due to Lange wanting to celebrate Dresden and Saxony being awarded a World Heritage site status for the Elbe Valley. Although this accolade was later retracted, Lange wanted to honour the colour blue of the Loschwitz Bridge over the valley with a watch. The 101.027 was already a reference with a blue dial; therefore, it was decided to fashion the hands in blue instead. Its dial configuration is remarkably rare for its era and can be found elsewhere with the unparalleled steel 101.026. Created in the early noughties, production numbers of this seldom-seen reference are less than 200 pieces. (Exact production numbers confirmed)