A. Lange & Söhne CEO Wilhelm Schmid Discusses Life Outside Glashütte, Car Restoration, and Wine
Wilhelm Schmid, CEO of A. Lange & Söhne, shares insights into his personal passions and values beyond the watchmaking world. He recently acquired a vintage Lange 1 with an original movement, reflecting his appreciation for heritage pieces. An avid collector of classic cars, he owns two unique Porsches and a rare Frazer Nash Mille Miglia, which required extensive restoration at a specialized workshop in Brandenburg. Schmid emphasizes the importance of family, noting that recent time spent together in South Africa has become his top priority. His philosophy centers on people, collaboration, and continuous learning. He draws inspiration from a book called The Drama of Leadership, which categorizes company members into craftsmen, visionaries, and technocrats, urging a balanced approach. Schmid values adaptability and agility, believing that uncertainty demands flexible planning. He enjoys simple pleasures like milk, cheese, and white wine in his fridge, and lives by the mantra that true excellence comes from loving what one does.
Buying Time Analysis: This interview highlights how Wilhelm Schmid’s blend of personal passions, family values, and commitment to craftsmanship informs A. Lange & Söhne’s resilient, agile approach, illustrating the importance of balancing tradition with innovation to sustain long‑term success.
