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

Brand :	A Lange & Sohne
Model Name :	1815 Up/Down
Reference :	234.042
Material	18ct Rose Gold
Movement :	Lange Calibre L051.2 - 72 hours PR
Case Diameter :	39mm
Bracelet / Strap :	Alligator leather
Features :	30m Depth Rating

 

Condition

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

Warranty

1 year warranty from SCW.