Description
The Alpina Alpiner 4 Chronograph (model AL-860GRS5AQ6) exemplifies Swiss watchmaking excellence, combining sophisticated engineering with practical functionality. This automatic timepiece stands as a testament to Alpina’s commitment to quality and innovation in the luxury watch segment.
Technical Specifications
Case and Crystal
- Case diameter: 44mm
- Case thickness: 14.7mm
- Case material: 316L stainless steel with brushed and polished finishing
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Case back: Screw-down with sapphire display window
- Crown: Screw-down with Alpina logo
Movement Specifications
The AL-860 automatic chronograph caliber offers sophisticated timekeeping capabilities:
- Base movement: Sellita SW500
- Jewels: 25
- Power reserve: 46 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Automatic winding with ball bearing rotor
- Incabloc shock protection system
- Fine timing device and regulator
Dial and Hands
The sophisticated dial layout features multiple elements:
- Sunburst blue dial with applied silver indices
- Super-LumiNova® treated hands and markers
- Three silver-toned chronograph subdials:
- 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock position
- 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock position
- Running seconds at 9 o’clock position
- Date window at 6 o’clock with quick-set function
- Red-tipped chronograph seconds hand
Bracelet and Clasp
The watch features a robust bracelet system:
- Material: 316L stainless steel
- Three-link design with brushed outer links and polished center links
- Width: 22mm at lugs, tapering to 20mm at clasp
- Double-folding security clasp with Alpina logo
- Quick-release spring bars for easy strap changes
Professional Features
The “4” in Alpiner 4 represents four essential professional features:
- Anti-magnetic: Protected against magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m
- Water-resistant: Certified to 100 meters (10 ATM)
- Anti-shock: Incabloc shock protection system
- Stainless steel: Corrosion-resistant 316L grade steel construction
Chronograph Functions
The chronograph mechanism offers precise timing capabilities:
- Start/stop pusher at 2 o’clock
- Reset pusher at 4 o’clock
- 1/4 second precision
- Add and split timing functions
- 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers
Additional Features
- Screw-down crown with three positions for time setting, quick-date adjustment, and winding
- Bidirectional rotating bezel with 60-minute scale
- Exhibition case back showing decorated movement
- Individual serial number engraving
Heritage and Value Proposition
Founded in 1883, Alpina’s legacy in sports watches dates back to 1938 when they introduced the original “4” antimagnetic, antishock, water-resistant steel watch concept. The Alpiner 4 Chronograph continues this tradition while incorporating modern innovations and refinements.
Conclusion
The Alpina Alpiner 4 Chronograph AL-860GRS5AQ6 represents exceptional value in the luxury sports chronograph segment. It successfully combines professional-grade specifications with refined aesthetics, making it a versatile timepiece suitable for both active use and formal occasions. The watch showcases Alpina’s commitment to both traditional watchmaking values and modern performance requirements.
