Introduced as a limited edition of 50 pieces in 2010, the A. Lange & Söhne Tourbograph “Pour le Mérite” in 18K honey gold belongs to an important collection of highly complicated wristwatches paying homage to F.A. Lange. Regarded as one of the most complicated wristwatches manufactured by the firm, the first Tourbillon “Pour le Mérite” wristwatch was introduced in 1994. As a modern iteration of the highly complicated timepiece, the ref. 712.050 is further enhanced by a rattrapante chronograph, a power reserve indication of up to 36 hours as well as a delicate fusée-and-chain transmission. Combining all elements together, it is the first timepiece to incorporate a tourbillon, rattrapante chronograph and fusée-and-chain transmission by any manufacturer.

Executed to perfection, the firm is most famous for their fathomable craftsmanship in movement architecture and finishing. The 18K honey gold case is a signature, developed and patented, the lavish alloy displays a warm hue of “honey” with a hardness tougher than platinum and was first incorporated in 2010. Housed inside the spectacular case is the sophisticated in-house cal. L903.0. With over 1,000 individual components assembled to achieve such feat, the meticulous fusée-and-chain transmission alone comprises of 636 parts assembled in the likes of a bicycle chain. The tourbillon escapement consists of 84 components alone, however weighing exceptionally light at approximately 0.5 grams.

With most examples reappearing in public encased in platinum, the 18K honey gold variant is most certainly rare. Adding to its attraction, the present example is presented in excellent overall condition with very limited wear and accompanied by the full set of accessories.