Description
The Alpina Alpiner 4 Chronograph (Model: AL-860AD5AQ6) exemplifies Swiss watchmaking excellence, combining sophisticated engineering with practical functionality. This automatic timepiece represents a significant entry in Alpina’s prestigious collection, continuing their century-old tradition of creating reliable sports watches while maintaining refined aesthetics.
Technical Specifications
- Case Diameter: 44mm
- Case Thickness: 14.7mm
- Lug Width: 22mm
- Weight: 185 grams
- Power Reserve: 42 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Jewels: 25
Case and Crystal
The watch features a meticulously finished stainless steel case with alternating brushed and polished surfaces. The case construction demonstrates exceptional attention to detail with:
- Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides
- Screw-down crown with deep grooves for easy manipulation
- Sapphire crystal exhibition caseback
- 100-meter water resistance with triple gasket system
Dial and Hands
The blue sunburst dial offers exceptional depth and character, changing its appearance under different lighting conditions. The dial features:
- Applied rhodium-plated hour markers with Super-LumiNova coating
- Faceted sword-shaped hands with luminous treatment
- Three contrasting silver subdials with azurage finishing
- Red-tipped chronograph seconds hand
- Precisely printed minute track
Movement: AL-860 Automatic Chronograph
Based on the reliable Sellita SW500, the AL-860 movement represents a significant achievement in mechanical watchmaking:
- Column-wheel chronograph mechanism
- Vertical clutch engagement system
- Elaboré grade finishing with Geneva stripes
- Custom Alpina rotor with special decoration
- Fine timing adjustment system
Chronograph Functions
The chronograph mechanism offers comprehensive timing capabilities:
- Central chronograph seconds accurate to 1/4 second
- 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock position
- 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock position
- Running seconds at 9 o’clock
- Quick-set date function at 6 o’clock
The Four Professional Features
The “4” in Alpiner 4 represents the four essential features that define this professional timepiece:
- Anti-magnetic: Soft iron cage protecting against magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m
- Anti-shock: Incabloc shock protection system
- Water-resistant: Triple-sealed crown and gaskets ensuring 100m water resistance
- Stainless steel: 316L surgical grade stainless steel construction
Bracelet and Clasp
The integrated stainless steel bracelet features:
- Three-link design with brushed outer links and polished center links
- Double-folding security clasp with push-button release
- Fine adjustment system for perfect fitting
- Solid end links with minimal play
Wearing Experience
Despite its substantial size, the watch maintains excellent comfort through:
- Ergonomically curved lugs that conform to the wrist
- Balanced weight distribution
- Smooth caseback edges
- Flexible bracelet design
Performance and Reliability
The watch demonstrates exceptional performance metrics:
- Chronometric precision within COSC standards
- Consistent power reserve performance
- Smooth chronograph operation with precise reset action
- Reliable date change mechanism
Value Proposition
While positioned in the luxury segment, the Alpiner 4 Chronograph offers compelling value through:
- In-house modifications to base movement
- High-quality finishing throughout
- Robust construction ensuring longevity
- Versatile design suitable for various occasions
Conclusion
The Alpina Alpiner 4 Chronograph AL-860AD5AQ6 represents a masterful blend of technical sophistication and practical functionality. It successfully upholds Alpina’s reputation for creating reliable professional timepieces while offering modern refinements and exceptional build quality. Whether used as a daily wearer or reserved for special occasions, this watch delivers on all fronts – precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal.