A. Lange & Söhne Cabaret Blue Mother of Pearl 827.049

Cabaret Blue Mother of Pearl — 827.049

In 1997, following the Dresden’s Arch’s inspired Arkade, the Cabaret arrived in a truly rectangular form, rivaling, or building on top of its sister brand’s Reverso while highly differentiating with stunning lines, stepped bezel and excess lugs. It was restrained with diamond-shaped indices, and Roman numerals. Yet, A. Lange & Söhne decided to introduce it as “fresh, a little impudent, and imaginative” — perhaps hinting what is to come a decade after its introduction.

This is the Cabaret in white gold case with 52 brilliants and a stunning, almost cumulus clouds looking blue mother of pearl dial. Reference 827.049 to be precise. This gem here is part of a three piece limited edition, each limited to 10 pieces. I have no idea for which market or which retailer this set exists, but they do, and this gem is one of the most alluring piece of the collection. As its impudence is not enough, it is presented on a stingray strap as opposed to the usual alligator.

Its dial is hard to describe. I am almost ashamed for not putting a video here. A mother of pearl, layer over layer, each in a different tone of the blue, sometimes white, sometimes dark and sometimes pink, depending on whatever you reflect on it. Ever lively, ever playful, ever charming. I have no idea of how it is made, but I know it works. Like the Arkenstone in the Hobbit, this is something Smaug would cherish. It has a similar effect.

At the back, each is engraved with an individual limitation number, until 10. This example comes with its original box, papers, and original strap, as intended.

Now sold at The Selection, at Langepedia.com