Startimer Pilot Automatic Blue Ref. AL-525NW4S36

The Swiss have been distinguished as one of the world's best watchmakers for centuries, dominating the watch industry with their fine craftsmanship and exceptional quality. Back in 1883, independent watchmaker Gottleib Hauser stood out from the rest with a vision to establish a union of members among fellow watchmakers in Switzerland with an aim to work with each other to share ideas, parts and materials to bring watchmaking to another level. This was when he founded the Alpina Union Horlogère S.A. (UH) / Schweizerische Uhrmacher-Genossenschaft (SUG)' ('Corporation of Swiss Watchmakers') that was driven by Hauser's 'Alpinist Principle'  to unite the Swiss watchmaking industry. 

The Union was initially created to optimize and develop the movement manufacturing process with the team effort between manufacturers and suppliers.

However they soon developed their own completely in-house calibers and high-precision chronometers. In 1921, Alpina became highly recognized as a watch manufacturer that produced reliable aviation timepieces for military pilots during the Second World War. Today, these service wristwatches are highly desired by vintage military watch collectors for their legendary horological heritage.

Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic Blue Ref. AL-525NW4S36

Building upon this distinguished legacy, Alpina now unveils the newly upgraded Startimer collection, paying tribute to its iconic flight instruments with a design faithful to the spirit of its predecessors. Housed in a totally reworked 40mm case with a slimmer and more wearable profile, the timepiece introduces a fresh dial layout enhanced by striking 3D numerals, masterfully preserving its authentic pilot aesthetic for the modern enthusiast.

The Alpina Startimer Automatic sports a newly refined 40mm stainless steel case, 48.2mm lug-to-lug with an extraordinarily slender profile of just 11.5mm, marking a complete engineering upgrade over its predecessors. Downsized from the substantial 44mm proportions of early releases, this thoughtful update delivers a far sleeker aesthetic on the wrist. It responds directly to the growing preference among modern watch collectors for versatile, classic sizing that offers both presence and exceptional comfort.

Fresh dial layout enhanced by striking 3D numerals

Finishing across the case is exceptionally well executed, highlighting a satin brushed surface along the top of the lugs and case sides, separated by crisp polished bevels that bridge classy sophistication with utilitarian appeal. The slim dressy bezel is now refined with a circular brushed finish, while the removal of the 12 hour scale achieves a clean look that retains pure pilot DNA. Careful polishing within the bezel grooves adds an extra touch of refinement and a dressier vibe on the wrist. At the 3 o clock position, the signature knurled crown tapers beautifully, ensuring a confident grip and effortless operation.

Under the scratch resistant sapphire crystal, the Alpina Startimer Automatic reveals a matte navy blue dial with a fine grained finish, anchored by broad Flieger style hour and minute hands. The extended minute hand reaches out to touch legible minute markers for effortless reading, preserving iconic vintage design traits such as prominent applied 3D Arabic numerals and a historic triangle marker at the 12 o'clock position. All hands, numerals, and indexes are generously treated with SuperLuminova to guarantee exceptional legibility in low light conditions.

Brushed and polished stainless steel 2-part case

Framing the dial is a stepped minute track with crisp white markers that bestows a captivating sense of architectural depth. A subtle pop of red on the 'STARTIMER' text perfectly matches the red triangular counterweight on the seconds hand, creating a vibrant color contrast against the khaki backdrop. Completing the functional layout, a date window appears at 6 o'clock featuring crisp white text set against a contrasting black background.

At the heart of the timepiece lies the reliable Alpina self winding caliber AL525 automatic movement, beating smoothly at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour across 26 jewels while delivering a dependable 38 hour power reserve. On the rear, an engraved screw down case back showcasing a detailed hydraulic pressed aviator motif seals the movement securely, providing robust protection against the elements with a water resistance rating of 100m (330 ft).

Luminous glows in the dark

Paired with a 20mm light brown calf leather strap adorned with subtle beige topstitching, this timepiece exudes a timeless warmth that complements its military heritage. The combination creates an incredibly versatile look on the wrist, making it effortlessly adaptable for any occasion whether navigating daily life or embarking on weekend adventures.

By seamlessly fusing mid-century flight heritage with contemporary Swiss craftsmanship, the totally reworked Alpina Startimer Automatic establishes a new benchmark for accessible luxury tool watches. From its sleeker 40mm case proportions and exquisite brushed and polished finishing to its high legibility navy blue dial and versatile 20mm leather strap, every detail reflects a thoughtful evolution that honours iconic military predecessors. Offering exceptional build quality, striking visual depth, and undeniable value, this refined pilot timepiece emerges as a complete, highly dependable everyday companion fully prepared for your next journey.

Video ist nicht verfügbar