Alpina, the Geneva-based brand were founded in 1883, yet a quick glance at their portfolio and you realise that their watches are modern, fresh and contemporary.  The Startimer Pilot Collection is new for 2011 and is “inspired by original Alpina designs from the 1920′s and 30′s”.  Part of the new range is a rather handsome chronograph model.  Matt black dial, generous white numerals and markers, the red triangle on the seconds hand – it’s all good.

The minute and seconds counters are located at 9 and 3 o’clock, overlaid on the dial, obscuring what lies beneath, adding depth.  The case is satin-finished stainless steel, 43mm with nicely proportioned pushers.  Inside is the automatic AL-860 chronograph movement.  A vintage feature of these pieces is the leather strap which closes on the front of the wrist rather than on the back or lower side – a steel bracelet is also available, but I’d bet the leather looks better.  All told, the Startimer Chronograph is a worthy rival to other pilot watches out there.   Still not convinced?  Alpina add further kudos to the collection by collaborating with both Cessna Aviation and PrivatAir on this project, buy one of these watches and a Cessna Citation Mustang scale model in PrivatAir livery will be included in the box.

Popularity: 6% [?]

Alpina release two new models of their Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture for 2010.

The Swiss manufacturer received acclaim at Baselworld 2009 for their full black version of the Extreme Tourbillon Regulator and the latest models added to the collection are enhanced with the use of a traditional material, pink gold.

Alpina Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture

The movement the AL Calibre 980 is unique and technically innovative – the use of a silicon escapement wheel and silicon pallet lever (in common with sister company Frédérique Constant) together with the brand’s Smart Weight Balancing™ ensure the ultimate in accuracy and reliability.  The AL Calibre 980 was conceived and developed within three years by a dedicated team of engineers and watchmakers driven by a common goal, the future sucess of this revived brand.

Alpina Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture

The two new models have 48mm cases constructed from titanium with pink gold bezel or pink gold with a black ceramic bezel.  The dial remains black but with some satin finishing and the characteristic Alpina double digit numerals add to the overall robustness of this piece.  Decoration of the bridges of the tourbillon cage, which also displays individual numbering add detail and hand finishing you would expect on such exclusive pieces.

The new Alpina Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture models will be a limited release of 18 pieces per version.

Popularity: 4% [?]