FERDINAND A. LANGE – THE JOURNEY TO GLASHÜTTE.

Ferdinand A. Lange was born in Dresden on 18 February 1815. His father was a gunsmith and described as a “man of course character”. After young Lange’s parents separated, he was brought up by an acquainted merchant’s family. His surrogate family enabled him to attend the Technical Institute of Education in Dresden, where he received training at a level then generally reserved for engineers and technicians.

While he was studying, Ferdinand A. Lange began an apprenticeship with Gutkaes, the renowned master clockmaker. He quickly recog-nised 15-year-old Lange’s horological talent and encouraged the young man who had impressed him with his craftsmanship skills, diligence, and intelligence.

FERDINAND A. LANGE - THE JOURNEYMAN.

After having successfully completed his apprenticeship, he became a journeyman and was employed by Europe’s most prominent clock- and watchmakers. His journey- and workbook provides an impressive account of how he broadened his knowledge and is particular proof of the perfectionism with which he conducted his studies. It contains numerous calculations and detailed drawings for the precise manufacture of movement parts.

With a host of new ideas, Ferdinand A. Lange finally returned to Gutkaes’ manufactory of astronomical clocks in 1841. Thanks to his profound knowledge, he quickly became a driving force in the business and, after having wed Antonia Gutkaes, a co-owner.