Shortly after the inception of the Lange 1, the brand introduced the "Little" Lange 1, with a reduced case diameter of 36mm, down from the 38.5mm of the original. This was done following requests understood to have originally come from Japanese collectors, who appreciated the pared back asymmetrical design, but were after a more conservative case size. Considering just how influential the Asian market was at the time, A. Lange & Söhne decided to entertain this unusual request, adapting their design to a smaller size.

Introduced in 1998, it is believed that the "Little" Lange 1 was only produced for a small handful of years. The size was then entirely discontinued, until A. Lange & Söhne brought it back a few years later, though this time with designs clearly aimed at female collectors. This reference 111.032 has a more traditional look, with a rose gold case and silvered dial. Each of the accents, including the index markers and the date window frame are rendered in rose gold.

Overall, the decentralised design of the Lange 1 has been subtly adapted to the smaller size of the “Little” Lange 1. In order to keep the design as slender as possible, we see that the pusher to adjust the date – which is usually found on the left-hand side – has been replaced with a small corrector which sits flush against the case. Turning the watch over, we also see that the movement occupies more space relative to the larger Lange 1 designs.

The watch still makes use of the classic Lange 1 movement, the calibre L901.0, which is finished to the same high standards that can be found on all A. Lange & Söhne watches. The aesthetics of the movement are just as impressive as the mechanics, with chamfering and interior angles superbly hand-finished.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This A. Lange & Söhne little Lange 1 is in very good condition throughout. The polished case and lugs show virtually no signs of wear having recently returned from a service with the manufacturer, receiving a full mechanical overhaul and case refurbishment. The dial, case and movement show no signs of imperfection. the hallmarks and engravings on the caseback are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

This A. Lange & Söhne Little Lange 1 Ref. 111.032 is in excellent good condition. The polished case and lugs show virtually no signs of wear having recently returned from a complete service with A. Lange & Söhne, receiving a full mechanical overhaul and case refurbishment. Though the case was lightly polished, the hallmarks and engravings on the caseback remain crisp and well defined. 

The watch comes with the original leather box from A. Lange & Söhne and document folio containing the instruction manual and guarantee, stamped by the authorised retailer Rabat, Barcelona in 2008. The inner cushion of the box has some damage on the two sides, impacting the area of the box in which it sits as well. 

This Little Lange 1 was recently serviced by A. Lange & Söhne in April 2023 and thus comes with time remaining on the brand's servicing warranty. The watch also comes with a lifetime guarantee of authenticity from  A Collected Man.