Another Masterclass in Simplicity: A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin Onyx Limited Editions
A. Lange & Söhne expands its Saxonia lineup with two striking new versions of the Saxonia Thin. Available in 18K Honeygold and 950 platinum, these limited editions are paired with glossy onyx dials, showcasing a minimalist design taken to its most sophisticated extreme. The black gemstone surface gives the Saxonia Thin Onyx an even more dramatic presence. Both versions are limited to 200 pieces, which I am sure will land with eager collectors in no time.
The Saxonia Thin Onyx in context
Originally introduced in 2011, the Saxonia Thin embodies the “less is more” design philosophy. Since its debut, the Saxonia Thin has been A. Lange & Söhne’s most restrained model — no date, no seconds hand, just hours, minutes, and a whole lot of elegance.
Don’t confuse aesthetic simplicity with minimalism, though. Although subtle, A. Lange & Söhne infuses the Saxonia Thin with tons of beautiful details that any Bauhaus-influenced designer would surely omit. I, for one, am delighted that ALS’s designers are of a different ilk. To me, the line represents a masterclass in aesthetic simplicity, guiding the eye across one lovely feature after another without overpowering or trying to impress.
Although some slightly fancier dials have graced the model before, this is the first time we see onyx dials on the Saxonia Thin.
A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin Onyx specs
The Saxonia Thin Onyx features a 40mm case with a slim 6.2mm profile, available in either 18K Honeygold or 950 platinum. Its slenderness and gracefully curved lugs ensure a comfortable fit and easy slide under a shirt cuff. Honeygold is Lange’s proprietary alloy, prized for its warm tone and greater hardness compared to traditional gold. The platinum version, meanwhile, provides a cooler, even more subdued look. Both watches are paired with a glossy black alligator leather strap and matching prong buckle in their respective metals.
Inside the Saxonia Thin Onyx ticks the manually wound manufacture caliber L093.1. At only 2.9mm thick, this movement still delivers a robust 72-hour power reserve thanks to its flat mainspring barrel. It’s finished to the typical Lange standards, with untreated German silver plates, blued screws, gold chatons, and a hand-engraved balance cock, all visible through the case back’s sapphire display.
The dial of the Saxonia Thin Onyx is carved from a solid disc of glossy black onyx, creating a mirror-like surface that elevates the straightforward layout. Slim baton appliques and hands made of rhodium-plated gold float above the inky surface.
Initial impressions
You may have gathered by now that I absolutely love the new A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin Onyx. I feel this model almost begs for a stone dial. Its simplicity and clarity, combined with the very classical feel, form the perfect stage for a stone dial to shine. At the same time, it would be out of character for the German house to do a flashy malachite or turquoise dial, making onyx the perfect candidate.
So, do I really have nothing to complain about? Well, I guess I would prefer to see these lovely new dials in the 37mm version, but that’s just a matter of taste. And who knows? A. Lange & Söhne might still do that someday.
All in all, A. Lange & Söhne gives the watch world yet another masterclass in deceptive simplicity. The Saxonia Thin Onyx proves, yet again, that less truly is more sometimes. Lange will produce only 200 examples of each variant, and the price is on request. I’m sure that won’t keep them from finding new homes quickly.
What do you think of the new A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin Onyx limited editions? Let us know in the comments section below!
