Lot Essay
Offered for the first time at Christie', the present timepiece is number 5 of a strictly limited edition of 50 examples of the Tourbillon "Pour le Mérite" model crafted in platinum - It is believed that out of the 50 pieces produced in platinum, only 3 were released with an integrated bracelet, the other pieces being produced with a leather.
Produced from 1994 to 1998, the series comprised 19 examples in white gold, 24 in pink gold, 106 in yellow gold and 1 in stainless steel.
Preserved in excellent overall condition, the watch is an epitome of true skill, design and sheer elegance, the present "Pour le Mérite" tourbillon is a highlight for the collector of exclusive timepieces.
The Tourbillon "Pour le Mérite", another example of A. Lange & Söhne's complex and exclusive timepieces, incorporates a number of fascinating technical details never seen before in a wristwatch, most notably the going train driven with a chain fusée. This complicated mechanism optimizes the rate accuracy of the watch and is visible through an aperture in the movement plate. A highly sophisticated planetary gearing system keeps the power to the going train steady even while the watch is being wound. The tourbillon mechanism also serves the purpose of improving rate accuracy by offsetting the disruptive effect of gravity. The rotating cage is suspended by two pivots between two diamond endstones. It turns around its own axis once a minute and can be precisely balanced with small counterweights. All parts of the watch are finished by hand and every surface is decorated. Consequently, the completion of each of these masterpieces requires several months.
Produced from 1994 to 1998, the series comprised 19 examples in white gold, 24 in pink gold, 106 in yellow gold and 1 in stainless steel.
Preserved in excellent overall condition, the watch is an epitome of true skill, design and sheer elegance, the present "Pour le Mérite" tourbillon is a highlight for the collector of exclusive timepieces.
The Tourbillon "Pour le Mérite", another example of A. Lange & Söhne's complex and exclusive timepieces, incorporates a number of fascinating technical details never seen before in a wristwatch, most notably the going train driven with a chain fusée. This complicated mechanism optimizes the rate accuracy of the watch and is visible through an aperture in the movement plate. A highly sophisticated planetary gearing system keeps the power to the going train steady even while the watch is being wound. The tourbillon mechanism also serves the purpose of improving rate accuracy by offsetting the disruptive effect of gravity. The rotating cage is suspended by two pivots between two diamond endstones. It turns around its own axis once a minute and can be precisely balanced with small counterweights. All parts of the watch are finished by hand and every surface is decorated. Consequently, the completion of each of these masterpieces requires several months.