In the world of horology, few brands capture the essence of precision, heritage, and emotion quite like A. Lange & Söhne. Their CEO, Wilhelm Schmidt, is a passionate advocate for the art of watchmaking, and his insights into the craft are as captivating as the timepieces themselves. Schmidt's relationship with time and watches is deeply personal, and his answers to Twelve on Time's thought-provoking questions offer a fascinating glimpse into his mind.
Schmidt's fascination with watchmaking began with the unveiling of the first four Lange watches in 1994. The Lange 1, in particular, stood out for its unique design and functionality. While he couldn't afford it at the time, the allure of this masterpiece lingered, and he eventually acquired one a decade later. Schmidt's appreciation for legibility in watch design is evident, as he values a well-balanced combination of design and functionality. A watch, he believes, should not only tell the time accurately but also evoke a sense of joy and personal connection.
When it comes to complications, Schmidt is a fan of chronographs. He admires the instant and regular use of this complication, which adds excitement to a watch. In contrast, he finds perpetual calendars and moon phase displays less engaging due to their limited operation. Schmidt's perspective on modern watchmaking trends is critical. He laments the overemphasis on size, suggesting that the focus should be on finding the perfect fit for one's wrist and personality.
A telltale sign of a watch made with care, according to Schmidt, is the seamless fit between the movement and the case. He emphasizes the importance of visible and invisible craftsmanship, ensuring that every detail is meticulously executed. The quartz crisis, in his view, was a pivotal moment that transformed mechanical watches from tools to expressions of personality. The introduction of quartz movements made precision more accessible, but it also shifted the perception of mechanical watches.
A. Lange & Söhne, under Schmidt's leadership, faces unique challenges. The brand's strong connection to the Glashütte region, where most employees live and work, contrasts with the global distribution of its customers. To bridge this gap, Schmidt has expanded the global network of boutiques, allowing customers to experience the brand's sophistication firsthand. Additionally, A. Lange & Söhne aims to maintain its secrecy while sharing its unique story with the right audience, particularly the next generation of watch buyers.
Schmidt's sources of inspiration extend beyond the watch industry. His love for classic cars, especially historic automobiles, influences his appreciation for timeless beauty. He finds it remarkable that these unsafe vehicles still spark passion and admiration. When asked about the watch he wishes he had created, Schmidt unequivocally chooses the Lange 1, praising its uniqueness and importance in the history of watchmaking.
In his personal life, Schmidt is often seen wearing the Odysseus Chronograph, a testament to his belief in the importance of wearing watches even in casual settings. His view of watchmaking has been shaped by the support of key figures, notably Tino Bobe and Anthony de Haas, who have guided him in understanding the brand's unique approach.
For younger collectors, Schmidt offers sage advice: only buy what you truly desire and wait until you can afford it. This approach ensures that the next watch purchase is a meaningful and satisfying experience, free from compromise.
