A Lange & Sohne Odysseus Gets Trick Automatic Chronograph

A Lange & Sohne came to Watches & Wonders with just a single release this year, and that’s all they needed to make a big impression. The watch is a new member of the Odysseus family, and it welcomes the brand’s first automatic chronograph. Like all of Lange chronograph movements, the new L156.1 within this watch is quite special, both mechanically and aesthetically. It should come as no surprise that the Odysseus platform accepts a chronograph compilation with ease, given the existing set of pushers that are integrated into the case, which are normally used to adjust the day and date. They still are, however their main function has been shifted to operating the chronograph.

The Odysseus Chronograph retains the outsized day and date apertures at 9 and 3 o’clock respectively, as well as a running seconds hand nested at 6 o’clock. There are no other sub dials present. The timing seconds and minute hands are stacked together and centrally mounted, just like the equally fabulous Sinn EZM1. When started, the red anodized aluminum timing seconds hand kicks into action, and the second timing hand records each minute that passes, up to 60 minutes. One unique detail here worth noting is that, when reset, that seconds hand will retrace every lap it’s taken around the dial. So if you’ve timed something for 15 minutes before resetting, the seconds hand will make 15 laps in quick succession back to its starting place.

These operations are routed through the integrated pushers on either side of the crown, which are usually used to adjust the day and date on the dial. They are still used for this function, however the crown must be (unscrewed, and then) placed in the correct position to “program” them for different use. This can even be done while the chronograph is in use. It’s a simple but inventive solution that avoids additional pushers or buttons elsewhere on the case, allowing the unique shape of this case to be left uncompromised. If you’re anything like me, the last thing you want in your six figure plus watches is compromise.

This incredible movement is placed within a 42mm steel case, and set under a black dial with contrasting textures that align with their use of steel. A chapter ring resides in the steel rehaut at the dial’s perimeter, which is employed by both the regular minute hand as well as both timing hands. This is easily the most sporty looking Odysseus to date, even on its full steel bracelet rather than rubber integrated strap.

In total this is a remarkably impressive, and a Lange watch through and through, from ethos to aesthetic, and as you may have guessed, won’t come easily, nor without parting with a pretty penny. Just 100 examples of this watch are set for production, at a price of around €130,000. No small sum, but the watch offers plenty to appreciate from afar. Seeing as they’ve developed this movement specifically for this case, I’d also imagine it won’t be the last time we see it. A. Lange & Sohne.