The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is one of the biggest and most traditional competitions for classic cars. A. Lange & Söhne has been a partner of this prestigious event since 2012 and will once again present a special edition of the 1815 CHRONOGRAPH as the award for this year’s “Best of Show”.
The visitors of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este will not only enjoy an exclusive view of Lake Como but also exciting insights into the world of A. Lange & Söhne precision watchmaking.
From 24 to 26 May 2024, owners and enthusiasts of rare vintage cars will meet in Cernobbio in northern Italy to admire the masterpieces on wheels on display in the spacious grounds of Villa d’Este. These exquisite and rare gems, which offer exciting insights into the legendary and eventful history of the automobile, compete in various categories to win over the jury of experts.
The most sought-after trophy is the “Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show”, which recognises the overall winner of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The winner of this category can expect to receive a special award: on Sunday, Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid will present a special version of the 1815 CHRONOGRAPH in white gold featuring a hand-engraved hinged cuvette. Since 2012, the German watch manufacture has honoured this passionate commitment to the preservation of vintage cars with the specially-crafted “Como Edition”. The winners of this award include cars that have made automotive history: from a 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS (2012) to the Duesenberg SJ Speedster Gurney Nutting (2023).
Short-term measurements in technical precision
It’s no coincidence that a chronograph was chosen as the winner’s watch. On the one hand, short-term measurement and motorsports have a close historical connection. On the other hand, the intricate construction of the movement in the 1815 CHRONOGRAPH epitomises a quest for precision and innovation, something that is also reflected in the mechanics of exclusive cars. The manufacture calibre L951.5, which features a column-wheel control, a stepped snail for the precisely jumping minute counter and a flyback function, is manufactured to the highest standards and is an example of unique chronograph expertise. Chronographs are one of A. Lange & Söhne‘s flagship pieces – since the debut of the DATOGRAPH in 1999, the manufacture has presented 13 groundbreaking models with a stop function.
“Thanks to A. Lange & Söhne, we have been able to offer our competitors a special highlight since 2012 with the presentation of the winner’s watch at the award ceremony. ”, We are proud of our partnership, which is characterised by a shared commitment to tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation,” emphasises Helmut Käs, Head of BMW Group Classic and president of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.
Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid agrees by saying: “By partnering with the Concorso d’Eleganza, we are part of a passionate community that is enthusiastic about the elegance of mechanics. Villa d’Este, Lake Como and the unique setting not only provide the perfect platform for the most extraordinary cars of their time but also for the presentation of our timepieces. The 1815 CHRONOGRAPH symbolises the link between these two worlds. Being able to celebrate the “Best of Show” category with this award for so many years has resulted in an impressive list of winners that will amaze any classic car enthusiast.”