Review: A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Outsize Date
A perfect introductory piece to experience the German high horology
The Saxonia Outsize Date from the A. Lange & Söhne (“A. Lange & Sons”) was in the news lately as two new dials were added to the collection in December 2020: a silver dial with either white gold case or pink gold case. The watch I own is a pink gold case version with a black dial that was introduced in 2018 as a brand new model (reference 381.031). There are altogether four distinct dial color and case material combinations now and they all share the same movement and technical specifications.
Lange is a brand that many watch collectors start to think about after some solid experience with the Swiss watches and Japanese watches. The annual production volume of Lange is about 5500, which means that it is still an insiders’ brand known for high quality and attention to details. When I was trying to acquire an entry-level, introductory Lange piece, the Saxonia Thin was a candidate due to its price point. I finally decided on the Saxonia Outsize Date because it embodies two of Lange’s quintessential designs: the big date display and the seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock. To get only one Lange timepiece for my collection at a relatively affordable price, this is the perfect choice to me.
The Saxonia OutSize Date is a classic and elegant dress watch with perfect symmetry. The iconic big date means no need to get close to the watch to see the date. Unlike the typical single wheel with all 31 numbers, the Lange implementation makes use of 2 smaller wheels for each of the digits. The adjustment for date is done by a pusher at 10 o’clock, which is a pleasure to use. The dial is actually made of solid silver even though the color is black, which is very deep and matches nicely with the black alligator strap.
The calibre L086.8 was developed based on L086.1 just for the exclusive use inside the Saxonia Outsize Date (four dial color and case material combinations). A large central rotor with a ball bearing and a platinum centrifugal mass assures efficient winding. The power reserve of 72 hours according to spec, achieved with only one mainspring barrel, is available after just a short time on the wrist. In my own tests, the power reserve lasted as long as 77 hours. It seems that Lange has been conservative in defining the spec. The timing accuracy was a superior +0.9 seconds per day measured over 18 days of my wearing it normally. The finishing of the movement was exquisitely done featuring a manually engraved balance cock with floral motifs. It has been reported that by examining the engraving, it is possible to determine the craftsman who had worked on the watch. I will remember to bring this timepiece if I ever have an opportunity to visit Glashutte.
The Saxonia Outsize Date is really comfortable to wear thanks to the 38.5mm case size and the luxurious alligator strap. It is an art, engineering marvel and jewelry all in one. I’m very content with just owning this one Lange, as this piece is sufficient for me to appreciate how a horological masterpiece is done.
Additional information and reviews:
Official product page
WatchBase product page
Big date display mechanism explained by Lange
Review by Time and Tide
Review by Hodinkee
Review by Watch Collecting Life Style
Review by Tom Mulraney
Video review by Hafiz Mehmood (on the white gold version)
Video review by Caseback Watches (new silver dial)