The area of ecologically-friendly practice has always been very close to the heart of Swiss watch manufacturer Alpina, and they have made a consistent effort to incorporate this sort of philosophy into all of their horological dealings. When it comes to ecological issues, few things could claim to be more vital than the simple preservation of water, and, of course, many of the world’s water sources are found within the Alpine environments that are now so synonymous with Alpina watches. With that in mind, the news that Alpina have recently partnered with the Race for Water foundation is certainly not unexpected, and indeed it seems like a logical extension of their principles.
The Alpina ambassador for the Race for Water collaboration is two-time world freeride skiing champion Aurélien Ducroz, and it is this notable sportsman (along with others in the ‘Water Guardians’ team, including the actress Anne Richard and skipper Steve Benedini) who will be carrying out much of the forthcoming Race for Water work. Fundamentally concerned with the protection and preservation of fresh and ocean water, the foundation will be sending Ducroz on a number of expeditions that will prove to be essential in the quest to understand the evolution of oceanic climates, and Ducroz has committed to reducing his water footprint on a personal basis too.
However, Alpina’s own part in the foundation’s work extends beyond Ducroz’s presence, as they have also fashioned a very special limited edition timepiece as well. Part of the profits from the sale of these wristwatches – namely 50 Swiss Francs – will be donated to the activities of the Race for Water foundation, but quite naturally the watch in question is eminently desirable for its own qualities as well. Presented in a special gift box and also mirroring the distinct colour scheme of the foundation, this stainless steel automatic chronograph timepiece is a classic Alpina creation, and will be produced in exclusively restricted number of just 400 pieces.
The scratch resistant sapphire crystal shields a silvered sunray dial with blue counter rings, and the bezel conforms to a 360° bi-directional turning compass pattern, so the timepiece is clearly and demonstrably numbered among Alpina’s typical sports watch families. The alligator leather strap is secured with a traditional buckle, and the dark colouration of this bracelet contrasts well with the crisp Alpine silvers, whites and blues that are evident upon the casing, also matching the aesthetics of the bezel. Equipped with resistances to magnetism, impact and water, this chronograph also upholds the Alpina pledge to only form watches that are at home in the most extreme environments in the world, and the movement of the Race for Water watch is similarly well equipped.
This AL-860 calibre mechanical movement possesses a power reserve that is well in excess of 30 hours, and exhibits a grand total of 30 jewels within its construction. With a frequency of 28,800/h, this in-house produced calibre was originally based upon the Sellita SW500 chronograph, and has been configured to allow maximum readability, even within demanding aviation environments. When all things are considered, it appears that, despite the additional connotations that are brought about by its limited edition status, the Race for Water Alpina watch is a superbly capable and practical chronograph for daily use as well.
Available today at Banks Lyon Jewellers, the Alpina Alpiner Chronograph 4 ‘Race for Water’ watch retails for £2,180, and can also be purchased on 0% finance for 36 monthly payments of £48.44 alongside a 20% deposit. Due to its limited edition status and charitable nuances, this chronograph is likely to be a popular choice for many horophiles, so you’d be advised to move quickly if you have an interest in acquiring this timepiece. For more information about this watch, or indeed any of our other Alpina watches, don’t hesitate to contact us now by calling 01524 38 48 58 or emailing [email protected].
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