- The TRIPLE SPLIT emphasises our expertise in developing innovative chronographs
- Customers are more attracted by the style of a brand than the latest craze
- The key to success will be to anticipate the needs of upcoming generations of customers
What are your brand’s “star” novelties for the SIHH 2018?
This year, our focus will be on the TRIPLE SPLIT. The first split-seconds chronograph that allows measuring lap times up to 12 hours sets a new benchmark for fine mechanical watchmaking and emphasises our expertise in developing innovative chronographs. Further highlights are the 1815 “Homage to Walter Lange” with stoppable jumping seconds – a tribute to our late company founder – and the SAXONIA OUTSIZE DATE. All three timepieces are equipped with newly developed manufacture calibres.
What are your expectations at SIHH 2018?
With seven debuts and three new calibres we are well prepared for the fair. We expect our new timepieces – especially the TRIPLE SPLIT – to attract a high level of attention among media, dealers and connoisseurs alike.
What are the foreseen trends and directions with watches in 2018?
The watch market is fundamentally different from fashion or accessories. New trends take time to emerge and the development of a new timepiece is a long multi-staged and technology-intensive process, which may take years to be implemented. In the fragmented watch market, leading trends are hard to detect. Customers are more attracted by the style of a brand than the latest craze. In the top segment of the collectors’ market, innovative complications and consummate craftsmanship will continue to be in high demand.
What are your brand’s priorities for 2018?
Our new timepieces are once again characterised by ingenious mechanical solutions, elaborate functionality and striking designs. In keeping with Walter Lange’s motto to “never stand still” we will continue to expand our knowledge and come up with fresh ideas that inspire our customers.
How does your brand approach technology as part of the future of fine watchmaking?
Driving technology advances in fine mechanical watchmaking is one of the pillars of A. Lange & Sohne. The TRIPLE SPLIT is a prime example of this approach. The integration of a rattrapante hour counter increases the measuring range by a multiple and makes the split-seconds chronograph truly usable.
In your opinion, what is about to change in the watch industry (markets & consumer attitude)?
In the past, the watch industry has demonstrated an incredible ability to adapt to changing conditions. I have no doubt that it will also seize the opportunities of the Digital Age. The key to success will be to anticipate the needs of upcoming generations of customers. I am convinced that if the current trend towards digitisation continues, there will be a higher demand for consistent watches that create a bond between the consumer and the people who have made them by hand with skill and passion.
How would you describe your brand performance during 2017 in the Middle East? Did your export figures increase?
On the whole, we can be satisfied with our performance in the region. The Middle East has always been a promising market for A. Lange and Sohne with a continuously growing customer base of watch collectors and enthusiasts.