Acclaimed for their exceptional rarity and beauty, Lang & Heyne watches have caught the attention of connoisseurs throughout the world since their founding in 2001. An independent Manufactory through and through, the company has become a bridge between the once-famous Saxony watchmakers of the 18th and 19th centuries and modern horology, with a portfolio that reflects a similar philosophy to that of the region’s clock and watchmaking forefathers. Characterised by innovation, technical mastery and a high standard of artisanship, each Lang & Heyne watch is created from pen to wrist in their Dresden Manufactory, and with less than 200 pieces released per year, the client can be assured of exclusivity. Crafted with a nod to the past, but with a resolutely contemporary vision, the Anton Platinum watch showcases a satisfying level of hand finishing, and as with all Lang & Heyne timepieces, the watch bears the provenance of a historical, noble name from the Saxony region.

The Lang & Heyne Anton model is presented in a rectangular case sized at 40mm by 32mm with a height of 9.4mm. Styled so that it curves elegantly on the wrist enabling an ergonomic wear, the case has a blend of sharp angles, straight lines and softened edges and it is fitted with an flattened onion shaped crown which is neatly tucked within its subtle crown guard, while its trim bezel opens up the expanse of the dial.

Upon a dial of white Grand Feu enamel, a generous opening at the lower offers an endlessly fascinating view of the flying tourbillon. Clasped within a Lyra-shaped cage that indicates the seconds as it completes its one-minute revolution, its labyrinthine arrangement is so complex that the assembly of each one is demanding of two days at the Master’s bench. In contrast with the complication, elsewhere the dial evokes stunning minimalism, with an expanse of pure white enamel on which the black scripted numerals and railtrack scales are joined by blue diamond-shaped markers at each quarter, and by flamed-blue lancet hands.

Manufactured in the Lang & Heyne Dresden workshops, whose small team is overseen by Master Watchmaker and Development Director, Jens Schneider, the manual winding Caliber IX is extraordinary. Fully disclosed through a generous sapphire caseback, its symmetrical bridges display curving uppers and with polished and matte finishing, the elements offer astounding contrast as they catch and reflect the light. Deeply set ruby jewels shimmer in their wells, while the generous blued screws go beyond their function, becoming stylish features in themselves. And, as a final flourish, a pair of chaton-set brilliant-cut white diamonds take up position on either side of the Lang & Heyne inscription. Beating at 18’000 vib/h, the Caliber IX has a power reserve of 55 hours when fully wound.