The Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic: A Rugged Redesign with a Swiss Twist
Alpina, a Swiss watchmaker with a rich history dating back to 1863, has unveiled a fresh take on its iconic aviator's watch, the Startimer Pilot Automatic. This redesign pays homage to the brand's military roots while offering a contemporary twist on a classic timepiece. With a focus on legibility, functionality, and a sleek aesthetic, the new Startimer Pilot Automatic is a welcome upgrade to the original model launched 15 years ago.
A Military Heritage Meets Modern Design
The Startimer Pilot Automatic is a testament to Alpina's commitment to combining heritage with innovation. Inspired by the brand's early 20th-century military watches, this timepiece exudes a no-nonsense, rugged charm. The redesign aims to enhance the original's simplicity and legibility while reducing the case size and height, making it more comfortable and visually striking.
Case and Dial: A Visual Transformation
The new case measures 40mm in diameter and 10.14mm in thickness, a significant improvement from the previous 41mm and 11.14mm dimensions. The beveled edges and gently curved lugs give the watch a sleek and modern silhouette. The dial undergoes a transformation with a grained surface treatment, adding depth and texture. The most striking feature is the oversized, lume-filled Arabic numerals and indices, which rise from the dial, creating a three-dimensional effect and enhancing readability.
The Alpina logo, scripted in white, dominates the 12 o'clock position, while the date window at 6 o'clock features black numbers. The model name and '1863 Genève' are elegantly displayed above the handset, with the 'Startimer' model name in red and 'Automatic' in white positioned below. This attention to detail showcases Alpina's commitment to craftsmanship.
Varied Dial Options and Movement
The Startimer Pilot Automatic comes in four distinct variations, catering to different tastes. The PVD-coated model boasts a black dial with green numerals and lume, while the black dial version with the same numerals and lume is coated in black PVD. The green and blue dial versions feature beige numerals that glow green and blue-green under UV light, respectively. The silver hands on each model glow yellow, except for the PVD-coated version, which has beige lume.
Powering this timepiece is the Alpina 525 Caliber, an automatic movement based on the La Joux-Perret SW-200. With a 68-hour power reserve and a frequency of 4 Hz, this movement ensures accurate timekeeping. The closed caseback, engraved with an aviator motif, adds to the watch's flight-ready appeal.
Strap Options and Pricing
The Startimer Pilot Automatic offers versatility in strap options. The PVD-coated model comes with a light brown leather NATO strap, while the black dial version is paired with a Cordura textile strap. The green and blue dial models are equipped with brown leather straps, with the green dial version in dark brown and the blue in light brown. These straps complement the watch's design and provide comfort during wear.
Priced at $1,795 for the steel models and $1,895 for the PVD-coated version, the Startimer Pilot Automatic is a substantial investment. However, the enhanced legibility, improved case shape, and the brand's rich heritage make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of style and functionality.
In my opinion, the PVD-coated model stands out with its unique black dial and green numerals, making it a standout choice. The $100 upgrade is justified by the enhanced aesthetics and the overall improvement in the watch's design and wearability.
Final Thoughts
Alpina's Startimer Pilot Automatic is a testament to the brand's ability to blend tradition and innovation. With its improved legibility, sleek design, and varied dial options, this watch is a must-consider for those seeking a robust and stylish aviator's timepiece. The combination of Swiss craftsmanship and a nod to military heritage makes it a standout choice in the world of luxury watches.
