IS THIS THE MOST UNDERRATED LANGE?
Lange Cabaret ref. 107.031 / Credit: Brandizzi
A. Lange & Söhne is one of the hottest names in horology, with multiple collections that are all highly desired by collectors. But what about an A. Lange & Söhne that is no longer in production? As time presses forward, many Lange models are edging closer and closer to the 25-year mark; when they become vintage. The Lange Cabaret is one of those timepieces that in the next few years will officially become a vintage watch. And yet, it has barely gotten any attention from watch collectors over the years. So, what makes it special? What special history are the masses missing out on?
The Lange Cabaret was first released in 1997 to praise from fans who appreciated the quirky elegance of the rectangular case. The first thing that stands out is, of course, the shape of the case. The design of the Cabaret was meant to be emblematic of Art Deco design; a period in which horology greats like the Cartier Tank were made. One of the movements that the regular Cabaret used was the Lange Caliber L931.3, which was manual winding and featured the date, a 42-hour power reserve, and a 21,600 bph.
Probably the most notable iteration of the A. Lange & Söhne Cabaret was the Tourbillon version, released in 2008. This model solved an issue that had left watchmakers scratching their heads for some time now: how to stop a tourbillon? Lange engineers solved this by developing a system in which pulling the crown causes a stop lever with two V-shaped arms to stop the balance wheel. Either one of the two arms is able to stop the balance wheel, even if one of the arms is blocked by the tourbillon cage. This technical achievement, a first, was patented by A. Lange & Söhne. The Cabaret Tourbillon has a 5-day power reserve.
Lange Cabaret Tourbillon Platinum ref. 703.025 / Credit: Betteridge
Although it isn’t necessarily practical anymore, tourbillons are meant to be more accurate by counteracting the effects of gravity on the watch. Having a stop-seconds mechanism would allow the wearer to set the time with even more accuracy.
Unfortunately, the A. Lange & Söhne Cabaret was deemed unpopular and discontinued in 2011.
And yet, not only its unique design but also its technical prowess make the A. Lange & Söhne Cabaret a truly special timepiece, at least in my eyes. The outside tells a story of beauty and design, while the inside, the tale of technical triumph. Maybe I’m wrong but I think the Cabaret presents an opportunity, and if you can manage, it might well be a piece to pass down to the next generation.
By: Andres Ibarguen