Drawing inspiration from one of Lange’s first patents in 1879 (number 9349) for a Gangreserve or “power reserve”, the original patent stated: “Device in pocket watches for recognizing whether the watch is wound or unwound and for indicating how much times remains before it reaches the total unwound state.”

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 was in production from 1997 until 2008. It was reintroduced in 2013 in a more contemporary 39mm case, but no longer offered in platinum. With an elegant and slim 36mm profile, this first-generation Up/Down is subtle and demure, with an effortless dial display featuring a classic rail-way track and Saxon dotted markers, paired with contrasting blued-steel hands.

Powered by the in-house calibre L942.1 beating at 3Hz with a power reserve of 45 hours, the movement bears a hacking seconds function for optimal accuracy. As to be expected from the demanding German brand, the three-quarter plate bridge with exquisite hand-engravings and finishing features flame-blued screws, black polishing, and the overall warmth of German silver.

From a prominent collector of independent watches, this 1815 Up/Down is accompanied with its original accessories and exudes refinement balanced with practicality.