So here we find ourselves confined to our own four walls, itching to get a peek at the new releases from the watch brands showcasing at Watches and Wonders. After recent headlines of Baselworld taking another blow and no real signs of a lockdown being lifted anytime soon, this new wave of digital platform showcasing novelties may become somewhat more familiar in years to come. That being said, while I am sure nothing beats getting hands on with new watch releases this new online digital era proved itself a fairly slick and easy to access platform, giving the consumer and retailers a good insight of what to expect from the big brands latest releases.
My pick of the bunch comes from A. Lange Sohne, with their latest iteration of the Odyseuss, one year after the somewhat controversial introduction of the all steel version to the Lange family. I hope you enjoy this brief initial thoughts review.
Odysseus 2020
Twelve months after the first edition of the Odysseus and A. Lange Sohne's entry into the sports watch market we now have a precious metal version without the bracelet… This is truly a Lange, it projects sophistication, individuality and no cliche blue dial. This Odysseus to me, just makes more sense- its an elite level sport watch that moulds perfectly with Lange nature and ethos. This most recent novelty stands a little closer to the target that I feel last years Odysseus fell slightly short of.
Lets take a look at the bigger picture, its a Lange with the option to sport it on a rubber strap, sounds a little crazy right? However this is exactly what the sports market needs- precious high level horology setting itself apart from the steel sports clan that is currently dominating the market. This latest model is contributing to breaking the mould not only on a macro scale but also from a local viewpoint, the introduction of a balance bridge decorated with a novel hand engraved wave pattern (as apposed to the flourish designs found on most Lange models) is a true indication that Lange is venturing into a fresh landscape.
Not only does this years Odysseus please aesthetically with a beautifully balanced, stepped, grey dial and elegant open case-back, it is also very capable technically. Featuring a screw down crown, one hundred and twenty metres water resistance and a maximum power reserve of fifty hours.
Conclusion
I believe this novelty will form a significant milestone and foundation for Odysseus looking forward. It has truly harnessed the beauty that Lange can offer, finishing and finesse that is truly within a league of it own, without compromising the brands image or heritage. Its most certainly a step forward, in terms of precious metal sports watches I believe this is worthy of true status, and as Anthony De Haas stated; ''this is of course 100% Lange Sohne’’.
Technical specifications
Movement: Calibre L155.1 DATOMATIC
Movement parts: 312
Jewels: 31
Power reserve: 50hrs
Case dimensions: 40.5mm x 11.1mm
Water resistance: 12bar (120m)
Case material: white gold
All the best, Josh
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