A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus Chronograph

A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus Chronograph Review

At Watches & Wonders Geneva 2023, A. Lange & Söhne introduced the Odysseus Chronograph, a groundbreaking timepiece marking the brand’s first automatic chronograph movement. The watch introduces a central chronograph minutes-and-seconds display, providing enhanced legibility, and features an innovative dynamic reset mechanism, allowing the chronograph hands to automatically return to zero in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction depending on elapsed time. This technical sophistication preserves the elegance and balanced layout of the Odysseus line.

The 42.5 mm stainless steel case provides 120 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for daily wear while retaining a sporty yet refined look. Ingeniously, the chronograph pushers are integrated into the day and date corrector buttons located beside the crown. With the crown pushed in, the buttons operate the chronograph; when pulled out, they act as quick correctors for the day and date displays, combining practicality with an innovative user interface.

Despite adding a new chronograph complication, the dial layout retains signature Odysseus elements, including the large date at 3 o’clock, day window at 9 o’clock, and a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. The black dial features a granular frosted center, while the chapter ring and seconds track are decorated with concentric circular graining, providing depth and texture. Chronograph readings are indicated by two central hands: a silvered chronograph minute hand and a red chronograph seconds hand, complemented by a dedicated chronograph scale on the outer edge.

The dynamic reset mechanism automatically adjusts hand rotation based on elapsed time. Less than 30 minutes triggers counterclockwise return for both hands, while more than 30 minutes triggers clockwise rotation, ensuring precise resetting and visual clarity. Inside, the newly developed L156.1 Datomatic caliber powers the watch, beating at 28,800 vph with a 50-hour power reserve. The balance bridge features a hand-engraved wave motif reflecting the watch’s water-resistance focus.

The Odysseus Chronograph comes with a stainless steel bracelet and is produced in a limited edition of 100 pieces. This combination of modern chronograph innovation, integrated functionality, and elegant design makes it one of A. Lange & Söhne’s most technically ambitious wristwatches.

Specifications

Stainless steel case, 42.5 mm diameter, 14.2 mm thickness, sapphire crystal, black dial, Caliber L156.1 Datomatic automatic movement, 52 jewels, 28,800 vph, 50-hour power reserve, stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp, water-resistant to 120 meters.