A horological masterpiece combining design brilliance, creative genius, and the utmost in precision is the A Lange & Sohne Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar Terraluna Watch. The brand has always crafted highly remarkable pieces, sophisticated, and quite “German” in the skill and complicated novelties that the collections represent. The timepieces are respected around the globe, by those who manufacture fine watches, and those who simply collect them.
This extraordinary timepiece features an orbital moon-phase display, along with the brand outsize date, a power reserve of 14 days, and a constant force escapement. The artistry that is captured in this collection is truly the pinnacle of Saxon watchmaking. The 45.5 mm pink or white gold case has the orbital moon phase display, showcasing the location of the moon relative to the earth and sun exposed in the back. The sun appears to be missing when one looks at the map, where the earth and moon stand out very quickly, however the sun is present, represented by the balance wheel, totally magnificent.
The A Lange & Sohne Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar Terraluna Watch features a patented technique unique for the brand. The celestial bodies position is indicated by a trio of rotating discs, each set in solid white gold and coated in blue using that technique. The earth is depicted in the center by a disc that rotates counter-clockwise around its axis once per day, and surrounding that is the celestial disc, also rotating counter-clockwise, once each 29.5 days.
There are 2160 stars, each cut with a laser-beam, and highlighting the beautiful gold shining through the deep blue coating. The timepiece is set so that as the star-disc rotates the moon, a person can look at the display and see the moon's relative position to the earth and sun, as well as indicating night and day. The brand is always taking center stage at the annual SIHH watch fair in Geneva, because of the innovative designs and superb craftsmanship, and this design certainly has everyone talking.
The A Lange & Sohne Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar Terraluna epitomizes the brands watchmaking expertise, in addition to the elegant finishing. The timepiece design might have a busy look at first glance, but it is laid out to deliver information and that job is done with the highest degree of excellence. This watch has such a long list of features that you might not realize how spectacular they all are, but aside from all that lies the totally awesome movement. The finish is comprised of a three quarter plate constructed from untreated German silver and has hand finishing on all parts.
The latest L096.1 movement that the timepiece features hosts a twin barrel that powers the reserve, and the constant force mechanism helps compensate the energy of those spring barrels. The timepiece design allows the release of energy to the balance, and keeps the torque constant, which results in stable amplitude and amazing accuracy. This piece is wanted and respected by collectors and simple watch lovers, one that will find its way into the hearts of history.