405.035, Datograph Up/Down, Platinum

The Datograph Up/Down is the Second Generation of the storied A. Lange & Söhne Chronograph, released 2012 with many updates to create a more contemporary, clean chronograph. The power reserve display, alluded to in the Up/Down name, speaks to design changes in both movement and dial. While distinct in appearance, the foundation that made the First Generation Datograph beloved (an unapologetically Teutonic dial, immaculate German finishing standards, and towering movement architecture) are still present, making the Up/Down a credible successor with its own presentation.

The First Generation Datograph, ref. 403.035, Lange’s first chronograph. Debuting the L951.1 calibre at 1999 at Basel Fair, it solidified A Lange & Söhne as a serious contender in complicated watchmaking. Its dial, designed by Günter Blümlein and Reinhard Meis, featured a Germanic approach to beauty, mathematically defined symmetry. The sub-registers were lowered from their traditional location to form an isosceles triangle with the large date window at 12. A second inverted triangle formed between Roman numerals at 10, 2, and 6 provided balance. The layout prompted a novel movement design by Annegret Fleishcher (her first ever chronograph) in order to meet the unique prescribed layout. Fleischer stated later that the movement was intentionally designed to be visually beautiful as well as functional, an approach seemingly at odds with traditional Teutonic design. Depth and flourishes of curvature were introduced into the calibre's architecture to provide this visual depth, prompting the calibre’s nickname during its 5 year development timeline, ‘the Cathedral.’ 

The Datograph Up/Down, released in 2012, brought changes in both dial and movement. Roman numerals have been replaced with straight faceted indices, providing additional space on the dial and a more traditionally sporting chronograph aesthetic. Additional space is created with a larger 41mm case. While larger than the First Generation's 39mm, the diameter to thickness ratio is lower—allowing a thinner experience on wrist. The coating process of the subdials has been ‘improved’, providing a truer white to the slightly warmer off-white previously. A power reserve indicator now sits at 6. Its L951.6 calibre boasts a thicker mainspring, bringing the power reserve to 60 hours over 36 in the L951.1. The L951.6 uses a free sprung balance rather than screwed balance, improving adjustability and ultimately timekeeping accuracy. It is an altogether respectfully updated and more minimal chronograph, brought in line with the tastes of today's collectors.

The Datograph Up/Down features inarguable technical improvements to its predecessor and a dial design with a more minimal chronograph aesthetic. The movement has lost none of the drama that contributed to its predecessor’s ascension. It is incredibly successful in achieving balance through mathematics: traditional watchmaking with Teutonic aesthetics, building respectfully on a perfect chronograph.

This Datograph Up/Down presents in excellent condition. Its case shows only very light signs of use commensurate with occasional wear. It is a complete set, with all original documents and box included. It comes with a platinum deployant clasp.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.