In a minute: The A. Lange & Sohne Odysseus

WHAT IT IS:

It has happened: A. Lange & Sohne has unveiled its first regular- production timepiece in steel. The new Odysseus is a single watch for now, but the Glashutte-based brand has promised that more will follow as this is just the first of what will be a complete collection. This is the sixth pillar in A. Lange & Sohne’s line-up, and also the most overtly sporty one so far. Note its integrated steel bracelet, screw-down crown, 120-metre water resistance – all features that were previously unseen in the brand’s watches. What’s also new is the use of a balance bridge that’s been decorated with an engraved wave motif, instead of the usual cantilevered balance cock that bears a Lange-style floral pattern engraving.

(Related: [VIDEO] How exactly are the exquisite A Lange & Sohne luxury timepieces put together?)

HOW IT LOOKS:

Like its contemporaries, the Odysseus attempts to elevate steel into a material that’s fit for a luxury sports watch by paying attention to the minutiae, from the finishing of the watch’s surfaces to the fit of its components. To that end, the watch has succeeded in spades. The bracelet, in particular, deserves special mention for the seamless integration and meticulous finishing of every single link. On the whole, however, the watch is quite a departure from what aficionados have come to expect from the brand, what with its sporty case and bracelet that contrast with the classically styled dial sporting A. Lange & Sohne’s signature typeface.

HOW IT WEARS:

The Odysseus wears larger than its 40.5mm case diameter would suggest, and feels hefty with its integrated steel bracelet. Although the bracelet’s links are fairly long, its clasp comes with a micro-adjustment mechanism that promises a perfect fit for any wrist – if it’s big enough for the watch. Both the day and date displays can be changed quickly via the pushers on the right side of the case, which have been cleverly disguised as crown guards. It’s a useful feature, and the crisp, confident actuations of the push buttons make any adjustments a quick and convenient task.

(Related: Why A. Lange & Sohne’s director of product development, Anthony de Haas, prefers doing things the hard way)

Movement

Automatic movement with 50-hour power reserve

Case

40.5mm in steel

Price

$40,700