Founded in 1883, Alpina was revived in 2002 by the founders of Frederique Constant as a sister brand offering rugged, sporty watches. One of the models that brought the modern Alpina brand to the public's attention was the ski-themed Avalanche Regulator, which debuted in 2005. This model combines an unusual cushion-shaped stainless steel case with a regulator-style dial, which was rare at the time. After being largely dormant since 2006, Alpina released the Alpiner Regulator Automatic in 2020, featuring a more streamlined round case. Having had the opportunity to wear this model, I share its appeal from the "alpine" environment of the Adirondack region of upstate New York.
Text by Mark Bernardo
Article published on June 2021, 8
Alpina's regulator style, which has been around since 2006
The Alpina Regulator Automatic's striking 45mm stainless steel case is surrounded by a flat sapphire crystal. The bezel is slightly curved and has a satin-brushed surface. The satin-brushed lugs, likewise polished and faceted, taper to a point and connect to the warm brown leather strap. The solid caseback features the Alpina logo and a mountain motif. The crown is screw-down and features a triangular Alpina emblem reminiscent of a peak on its polished surface.
The dark blue main dial is finished with Côtes de Genève. This finish, usually found on movements, is rare on the dial. Like many regulator watches, this model features the most prominent central hour display. The hour and minute displays at 10 o'clock and 6 o'clock are both sunburst-finished, and both feature large white Arabic numerals. The hour and minute hands are shaped like thin triangles, evoking the appearance of mountain peaks.
The main dial's indices are five-sided, combining a rectangle with a triangle reminiscent of the Alpina logo. They are spaced every five minutes, but the indices between 9 and 11 o'clock, which overlap with the minute dial, are omitted. While it's possible to roughly see the time on the flange by squinting, this is a disappointment for those who prioritize readability even on a regulator watch.
The automatic caliber AL-650 is based on an ETA movement. This movement replaces the Unitas 6498-based movement that was used in the Avalanche Regulator from 2005 to 2006. The main difference between the old and new mechanisms is that the former is manually wound, while the latter is automatic. The former, adapted from a pocket watch movement, was larger and had a slower frequency of 18,800 vph, but had a longer power reserve of approximately 53 hours compared to the new model's approximately 38 hours.
The strap is crafted from thick, soft calf leather with contrasting stitching, adding to the watch's outdoor appeal. It secures to the wrist with a stainless steel pin buckle featuring the Alpina logo on its satin-finished surface. The combination of the brown leather strap, the satin-finish case, and the textured dark blue dial make the Alpiner Regulator Automatic a refined, versatile everyday watch. Its unusual regulator dial is sure to be a conversation starter at the office or on the slopes. Its attractive price of $2104 USD also makes it a compelling choice.
In addition to this model, the Alpina Regulator Automatic is available in a variety of versions, including a black dial model, a limited edition of 833 pieces with red details and stitching, and a bracelet version. In pursuit of a theme that brings the mountains closer to home, Alpina has pledged to donate $100 for every watch sold on its website to the National Parks Foundation, of which the brand is an official partner.
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