A. Lange & Söhne 221.032 1815 Up Down

Opening Context
The 1815 collection represents the most traditional side of A. Lange & Söhne, drawing directly from 19th-century Saxon pocket watch design and the legacy of Ferdinand Adolph Lange. Clear Arabic numerals, railway minute tracks, and absolute legibility define the line. The 1815 Up/Down is one of the purest expressions of this philosophy, pairing classical design with a functional complication that reflects Lange’s emphasis on precision and mechanical honesty.

Why This Reference Matters
The 221.032 is admired for its clarity and purpose. The power reserve indicator, marked AUF/AB, is not decorative but practical, reinforcing the ritual of manual winding that lies at the heart of Lange ownership. The solid silver argenté dial provides a soft, matte backdrop for the black Arabic numerals and blued steel hands, creating exceptional contrast and legibility. Inside, the manually wound calibre L942.1 exemplifies Lange’s approach to movement construction, featuring German silver plates, hand-engraved balance cock, and a layout that prioritizes symmetry and depth.

On the Wrist
At 36mm, the 1815 Up/Down wears with classical restraint. The rose gold case adds warmth without excess, and the compact diameter keeps the watch elegant and discreet. On the wrist, it feels balanced and composed, with the power reserve and small seconds adding visual interest without disturbing the overall harmony. It is a watch that feels intentional and timeless rather than styled to a moment.

Condition & Transparency
This example features a 36mm 18K rose gold case with a solid silver argenté dial, fitted to a brown leather strap and secured by an 18K rose gold tang buckle. It is powered by the manually wound calibre L942.1 with an approximate 45-hour power reserve. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters. Any information regarding service history, box, or papers is disclosed clearly based on confirmed details, with no assumptions made where information is unavailable.

Why It Belongs in a Collection
The 1815 Up/Down is ideal for collectors who value traditional watchmaking principles above all else. It complements the Lange 1 by offering symmetry and restraint, and pairs naturally with more complicated pieces by returning the focus to fundamentals. Within a broader collection, it serves as a benchmark for legibility, finishing, and classical proportion.

Closing
The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Up/Down 221.032 captures the essence of Saxon watchmaking at its most disciplined and sincere. For collectors drawn to manual winding, classical design, and movements finished without compromise, this reference remains one of the most quietly satisfying watches Lange has ever produced.

Specifications

• Case Size: 36 mm
  
• Case Material: 18K Rose Gold
  
• Dial: Solid Silver Argenté Dial with Black Arabic Numerals with Blued Hands Indicators, Power Reserve Indicator (AUF/AB) and Small Seconds
  
• Strap: Brown Leather Strap with 18K Rose Gold Tang Buckle
  
• Power Reserve: Approx. 45 Hours
  
• Water Resistance: 30 m
  
• Movement: Manual-Wind (Calibre L942.1)

Shipments are delivered under Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) terms, with duties and taxes payable by the recipient.