Description
The Alpina Alpiner 4 GMT (model AL-550G5AQ6-SR) exemplifies Swiss watchmaking excellence, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality. This timepiece continues Alpina’s legacy of producing reliable sports watches while catering to the needs of global travelers and horology enthusiasts.
Heritage and Background
Alpina, founded in 1883, has a rich history in producing professional sports watches. The “4” in Alpiner 4 refers to the four original anti-properties introduced by Alpina in 1938: anti-magnetic, anti-shock, water-resistant, and stainless steel construction.
Technical Specifications
Case Dimensions:
- Diameter: 44mm
- Thickness: 12.5mm
- Lug width: 22mm
- Lug-to-lug distance: 51mm
Case Construction:
- 316L stainless steel with brushed and polished finishing
- Bi-directional rotating 24-hour bezel
- Screw-down crown with crown guards
- Water resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)
- Anti-magnetic protection meeting ISO 764 standards
Movement Details
The AL-550 automatic caliber features:
- Base movement: Sellita SW330-1
- 26 jewels
- Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Hacking seconds function
- Quick-set date mechanism
- Independent GMT hand adjustment
Dial and Crystal
The watch features a meticulously crafted dial with:
- Silver-gray sunburst finish
- Applied indices with Super-LumiNova coating
- Sword-shaped hour and minute hands with luminous fill
- Red-tipped GMT hand for enhanced legibility
- Date window at 6 o’clock with cyclops magnifier
- Double-sided anti-reflective sapphire crystal
Bracelet Specifications
The integrated stainless steel bracelet includes:
- Three-link design with brushed outer links and polished center links
- Solid end links for improved durability
- Double-folding clasp with push-button release
- Four micro-adjustment positions
- Solid machined components throughout
GMT Functionality
The GMT mechanism allows for tracking three time zones:
- Local time via main hands
- Second time zone via GMT hand
- Third time zone using the rotating bezel
Comfort and Wearability
Despite its robust size, the watch maintains excellent wearability through:
- Ergonomically curved lugs
- Balanced weight distribution
- Comfortable bracelet articulation
- Precise micro-adjustment system
Value Proposition
In the competitive luxury sports watch market, the Alpiner 4 GMT stands out for several reasons:
- True Swiss manufacture with over 135 years of heritage
- Robust build quality meeting professional standards
- Versatile design suitable for both formal and casual wear
- Competitive pricing compared to similar GMT watches
- Comprehensive warranty and after-sales service
Conclusion
The Alpina Alpiner 4 GMT AL-550G5AQ6-SR represents an exceptional value proposition in the luxury sports watch segment. It successfully combines practical functionality, robust construction, and refined aesthetics while maintaining the high standards of Swiss watchmaking. Whether for frequent travelers or watch enthusiasts, this timepiece offers a compelling package of features and craftsmanship.
Maintenance Recommendations
To ensure optimal performance:
- Service interval: 4-5 years recommended
- Regular cleaning of bracelet and case
- Annual water resistance check if used for swimming
- Store in a watch winder when not in use to maintain power reserve
