Description
Alpina, founded in 1883 by Gottlieb Hauser, has been a pioneer in Swiss watchmaking for over 135 years. The Alpiner collection pays homage to the brand’s mountaineering heritage while incorporating modern horological innovations.
Technical Specifications
Case Dimensions
- Case diameter: 41.5mm
- Case thickness: 10.7mm
- Lug width: 21mm
- Lug-to-lug distance: 48mm
Case Construction
The case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, featuring:
- Brushed case sides with polished bevels
- Polished fixed bezel with smooth edge
- Screw-down crown with Alpina logo
- Water resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
- Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Exhibition caseback secured by 6 screws
Movement Details
The AL-525 automatic caliber (based on Sellita SW200-1) specifications:
- Diameter: 25.6mm
- Height: 4.6mm
- 26 jewels throughout the movement
- Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Automatic winding with ball bearing rotor
- Incabloc shock protection system
- Fine regulation system
Dial Elements
The sophisticated navy blue dial features:
- Sunburst finish with subtle color gradation
- Applied rhodium-plated hour markers with Super-LumiNova coating
- Faceted dauphine hands with luminescent treatment
- Red-tipped seconds hand for enhanced legibility
- Date window at 3 o’clock with custom date wheel font
- Applied Alpina logo at 12 o’clock
- Printed minute track with 1/5 second divisions
Bracelet Specifications
The integrated stainless steel bracelet includes:
- Three-link design with 316L stainless steel construction
- Width: 21mm tapering to 18mm at clasp
- Brushed outer links with polished center links
- Double-folding clasp with push-button release
- Micro-adjustment system with four positions
- Solid end links with tight tolerances
Special Features
Additional notable features include:
- Independently tested chronometer-grade accuracy
- Custom rotor decoration visible through caseback
- Enhanced magnetic resistance
- Two-year international warranty
Wearability and Ergonomics
The watch offers excellent wearing comfort due to:
- Balanced weight distribution: 150g including bracelet
- Curved lugs that conform to wrist shape
- Optimal case-to-bracelet transition
- Suitable for wrist sizes from 6.25″ to 8″
Packaging and Accessories
The watch comes complete with:
- Premium leather-bound presentation box
- Certificate of authenticity
- Instruction manual
- Cleaning cloth
- Extra spring bars
Value Analysis
The AL-525S4E3 represents exceptional value considering:
- Swiss-made certification
- In-house quality control standards
- Premium materials and finishing
- Brand heritage and reputation
- Competitive pricing in its market segment
Maintenance Requirements
To ensure optimal performance:
- Recommended service interval: 4-5 years
- Regular cleaning of case and bracelet
- Annual water resistance check recommended
- Storage in watch winder when not in use
Conclusion
The Alpina Alpiner AL-525S4E3 exemplifies the perfect marriage of traditional Swiss watchmaking and contemporary design. Its comprehensive feature set, reliable movement, and excellent build quality make it a compelling choice for both watch enthusiasts and casual collectors seeking a versatile timepiece that can transition seamlessly from formal to casual settings.
