A. Lange & Söhne is marking the 25th anniversary of their first chronograph calibre in a pretty special way this year. They’ve created a unique DATOGRAPH UP/DOWN “Hampton Court Edition” that’s set to be auctioned on November 9th in Geneva, with all the proceeds going to The Prince’s Trust. It’s one of those rare moments when a watch isn’t just a beautiful piece of craftsmanship—it’s also for a good cause.
This particular DATOGRAPH was on display at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace recently, which, if you haven’t been, is an incredible event. It brings together some of the most stunning vintage cars, and Lange has been involved for a few years now. This year, though, they really made an impression with this one-off piece.
The watch itself is classic Lange—white gold with a grey dial and black subdials, and it’s got that signature Lange flair with a hinged cuvette engraved with the Concours crest. Inside, there’s the L951.6 calibre, manually wound, made up of over 450 parts. But what really stands out is the craftsmanship; Lange has this way of making movements that are just as beautiful as the watch itself, and this one’s no exception.
What adds to the significance of this edition is the history behind the DATOGRAPH itself. Launched 25 years ago, it was Lange’s first proprietary chronograph calibre, and it really set a new standard in high-end watchmaking. The flyback function, precisely jumping minute counter, and column-wheel control weren’t just technical feats—they redefined what collectors expected from a chronograph. Over the years, the DATOGRAPH has become something of a cult favorite among serious collectors, and this “Hampton Court Edition” is the latest chapter in that legacy.
What’s even better is that all the money from the auction, including the buyer’s premium, is going straight to The Prince’s Trust, which helps young people build skills and find jobs. It’s a cause that’s close to King Charles III, and it feels like a natural fit for Lange, given their commitment to both tradition and future generations.
If you’re into watches—or even if you just appreciate precision and quality—this auction’s worth keeping an eye on. Not only is it a rare opportunity to own something truly unique, but it’s also a chance to support something bigger. Definitely one of those moments where luxury meets purpose.