As you may remember from our introductory blog, Alpina is one of the horological brand names that we have taken on relatively recently, and we have not yet looked at any of their timepieces in substantial detail. Clearly then, it is high time that this is remedied, and so we have chosen to focus the bulk of this feature upon the Alpina Startimer collection, their assemblage of aviation timepieces, and one of the most popular ranges within their portfolio.
Although pilot-themed and aviation watches may initially appear to be targeted at a relatively niche audience, this actually isn’t the case, as the qualities that are prized within such watches are universally desirable. For example, in a world where global travel has never been so prevalent, GMT and worldtimer wristwatches will always be of value, as never before have time-zones been crossed so regularly. Startimer watches are therefore extremely well equipped for a variety of modern requirements, and are also exceptionally varied to appeal to many preferences as well. Here are a few of our favourite models from within our stock.
Alpina Startimer Pilot Classic
A classic in every sense of the word, this Alpina Startimer is a mid-size timepiece, and its 44 mm form would be equally suited to either the wrist of a male or a female wearer alike. Two variants are in circulation, with the main difference being evident through the golden numerals of the second example, but both are gloriously sleek. The interior engineering is also impressive, as an automatic AL-525 movement is housed within, and this mechanism – equipped with a 38 hour power reserve – is clearly visible though an exhibition caseback. An incredibly stylish watch no matter what the occasion may be, the Alpina Startimer Pilot Classic is available for £840, or on 0% finance for 24 monthly payments of £31.50 alongside a 10% deposit.
Alpina Startimer Chronograph Military Pilot
A gents’ chronograph, this Alpina Startimer Chronograph Military Pilot watch is very different to the restrained and classical aesthetics of the previous Startimer watch in our selection, but then again it is aimed at a very different audience. Military-themed timepieces are always very desirable, and this Startimer certainly looks the part, with an authentic green dial that’s complemented by an instantly recognisable khaki leather strap. In the military, visibility is key in a wristwatch, so this precision chronograph boasts an enhanced ‘big-date’ display, and the enhanced quartz movement also brings continual reliability to the table with a 48 month battery life. On sale at Banks Lyon for £785, and also for 24 monthly payments of £29.44 and a 10% deposit, this highly proficient timepiece is well balanced in all areas.
Alpina Pilot Manufacture ‘Worldtimer’
We’ve already mentioned worldtimer watches in passing, and this Alpina Pilot Manufacture Worldtimer watch is just such a device. Featuring information from 24 separate time-zones, and with a 2nd time-zone indicator able to be set to suit individual circumstances, this superb Startimer is an impeccable tool to assist the avid contemporary traveller. However, it is also highly refined in a visual sense too, with alternating brushed and polished finishes upon the stainless steel casing, and a black crocodile leather strap. Despite the abundance of functions, the dial never verges upon becoming cluttered, which is always a potential risk for such high-performance wristwatches. Resplendent in a special gift box and limited to 8888 examples of its kind, this automatic worldtimer timepiece is on offer for £2,780, but can be yours for 36 monthly payments of £61.78 and an additional 20% deposit.
Limited Edition Alpina Pilot Heritage MKII
We conclude with another limited edition Startimer, and this particular watch is actually an affectionate homage to the pioneering Alpina timepieces of the 1920s and 30s. In accordance with that status, it utilises a traditional manually-wound movement, but that delightful eccentricity only adds to its charm. The case is also hinged on the left-hand edge, allowing the movement to be exposed at will. Ideally suited to those horophiles with a love of ‘pure’ vintage watches, this Limited Edition Alpina Pilot Heritage MKII watch is in stock at Banks Lyon Jewellers for £1,225, but is also offered on 0% finance for 36 monthly payments of £27.22 and a 20% deposit. Only 1883 pieces are in circulation though, so if you’d like any further information about this timepiece, 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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