Description
The Alpina Alpiner Chronograph AL-373SB4E6B stands as a testament to Swiss luxury watchmaking excellence, embodying over 130 years of Alpina’s horological expertise. This timepiece masterfully balances traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality.
Design and Build Quality
The watch features a meticulously crafted 42mm stainless steel case with alternating brushed and polished finishes, creating a sophisticated interplay of textures. The case thickness of 13.5mm provides substantial wrist presence while maintaining elegant proportions.
The brown leather strap, made from premium calfskin, features contrast stitching and a deployant clasp with safety push-buttons. The strap measures 22mm at the lugs, tapering to 20mm at the buckle for optimal comfort.
The blue dial showcases a subtle sunburst finish that changes appearance under different lighting conditions. Applied indices with Super-LumiNova coating ensure excellent legibility in low-light conditions.
Technical Specifications
- Case dimensions: 42mm diameter, 13.5mm thickness
- Case material: 316L stainless steel
- Crystal: Double-domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Water resistance: 100 meters (10 ATM)
- Movement: AL-373 automatic chronograph (based on SW500)
- Power reserve: 46 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Jewels: 25
Advanced Features
The chronograph functionality includes:
- Central chronograph seconds hand
- 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock
- 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock
- Small seconds at 9 o’clock
- Date window with quick correction
- Tachymeter scale calibrated up to 400 units per hour
Movement Performance
The AL-373 automatic movement, based on the reliable Sellita SW500, demonstrates excellent timekeeping capabilities:
- Average daily deviation: +/- 4 seconds
- Chronograph activation: Smooth pusher operation with precise start/stop/reset functions
- Power reserve accuracy: Consistently achieves the specified 46 hours
Comfort and Ergonomics
The watch’s ergonomic design considers several comfort factors:
- Curved lugs that conform to the wrist shape
- Balanced weight distribution (approximately 150g with strap)
- Smooth caseback edges to prevent pressure points
- Strap flexibility that improves with wear
Maintenance and Care
To maintain optimal performance:
- Recommended service interval: 4-5 years
- Water resistance testing: Annual
- Chronograph service: Every 3-4 years depending on usage
- Strap replacement: Every 1-2 years based on wear
Value Analysis
At its price point, this Alpina chronograph offers exceptional value considering:
- Swiss-made certification
- High-grade automatic chronograph movement
- Premium materials and finishing
- Brand heritage and reliability
- Comprehensive 2-year international warranty
Conclusion
The Alpina Alpiner Chronograph AL-373SB4E6B excels as a sophisticated timepiece that delivers on multiple fronts: technical capability, aesthetic appeal, and practical functionality. Its combination of traditional watchmaking values with modern engineering makes it an excellent choice for both collectors and daily wear enthusiasts.
The watch successfully bridges the gap between luxury and practicality, offering a compelling package that competes with chronographs from more prominent Swiss brands at significantly higher price points.
