QUEST FOR PERFECTION: TWOFOLD ASSEMBLY.

At A. Lange & Söhne, every movement is assembled twice. The second step is unusual in precision watchmaking and involves considerable extra effort. But it is the only way to craft a movement that can claim to be a unique work of art in terms of functional integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Initial assembly

INITIAL ASSEMBLY.

During the initial assembly phase, the complex mechanisms of each calibre – some with up to 556 parts – are put together with temporary assembly screws and carefully adjusted to assure the perfect inter-action of all components.

The most challenging operation is to optimise the basic settings of Lange chronographs. This is because even the highest degree
of accuracy in parts production is not sufficient to assure the har-monious interaction of all the elements of such complex mechanisms.

This process requires the virtuosity and in-depth knowledge of Lange’s master watchmakers. The most experienced among them
are specialised in manually tweaking chronograph movements to perfection.

INSIDE THE MANUFACTORY: THE INITIAL ASSEMBLY
Finissage of components

FINISSAGE OF COMPONENTS.

No matter how much care is exercised, it is not possible to preclude that a part may be slightly scratched while it is being adjusted. This is why after initial assembly, the perfectly functioning movement is totally taken apart again and cleaned. Only now are many of the delicate components embellished with traditional decorations, engravings, and polished finishes.

Second assembly

SECOND ASSEMBLY.

Finally, the meticulously decorated parts of the movement are cautiously assembled for the second time.

The temporary assembly screws are now replaced by immaculate blued screws. Each part is lubricated with a specified oil or grease. Then, after the movement has been precisely adjusted, it is paired with its platinum or 18-carat gold case.

INSIDE THE MANUFACTORY: THE SECOND ASSEMBLY