Dresden-based Lang & Heyne was originally founded in 2001 by Marco Lang and Mirko Heyne. The brand is known for its immaculate finishing and innovative watchmaking. Each collection is named after a member of German nobility who features on a mural in Dresden called Fürstenzug, which, contains portraits of members of German nobility from between 1123 and 1904.

This particular reference pays tribute to King Albert of Saxony, as a general in the army, the son of King Johann proved his great military skills and played a big role in encouraging the social development of Saxony. His 30-year reign took place in the age of industrialization of Germany, in which Saxony became an economic heavyweight.

This reference was originally introduced in 2009 and made available in two configurations. This particular example features a platinum case and a Grand Feu white enamel dial. The dial is signed Lang & Heyne – Dresden followed by N0. X is the serial number of the watch, reminiscent of old pocket watches. The sunken sub-dial is used for the running seconds. The Albert is powered by the brand’s 4th calibre ‘calibre IV’ which features a chronograph with a co-axial elapsed seconds and minute hands. The blued hand is the seconds hand and the sliver hand is the minute hand this allows the complication to be concealed when not in use. The clever use of a monopusher crown also enhances the overall elegance of the 44mm platinum case and reference. The addition of contrasting five-minute marks interplays with the blued hands and adds yet another exciting element to the dial.

Marco Lang is credited with having built 9 calibres at Lang and Heye before departing the brand in 2019. It is believed that the calibre IV was conceived during Johannes Jahnke’s apprenticeship at Lang & Heyne and further refined by both watchmakers. The calibre is capable of delivering a 46h power reserve and beats at 2.5hz. In order to achieve such a harmonious dial layout, the larger two-hundred-tooth gold chronograph wheel lays the foundation for a perfect start and a smooth motion of the hands. The bridge of the movement also features the serial number of the watch and the level of depth found on the movement is impressive. The movement is finishing is spectacular, especially the black polish levers.

Brand: Lang & Heyne
Model: Albert
Movement: Calibre IV
Case Diameter: 44mm
Year: 2017 (sold)
Box & Papers: Original papers, no box. 

Dresden-based Lang & Heyne was originally founded in 2001 by Marco Lang and Mirko Heyne. The brand is known for its immaculate finishing and innovative watchmaking. Each collection is named after a member of German nobility who features on a mural in Dresden called Fürstenzug, which, contains portraits of members of German nobility from between 1123 and 1904.

The watch exhibits minimal signs of wear, with no notable scratches or concerns.