Description
The Alpina Alpiner 4 GMT (AL-550S5AQ6) embodies the essence of Swiss watchmaking excellence, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality. This timepiece continues Alpina’s legacy of creating reliable instruments for travelers and adventurers since 1883.
Technical Specifications
Case Dimensions:
- Diameter: 44mm
- Thickness: 12.7mm
- Lug width: 22mm
- Lug-to-lug: 51mm
Case Construction
The case is crafted from high-grade 316L stainless steel, featuring:
- Brushed case sides with polished bevels
- Screw-down crown with protective shoulders
- Bidirectional rotating 24-hour bezel with aluminum insert
- Double-sided anti-reflective sapphire crystal
- Exhibition caseback showcasing the movement
Dial Details
The sunray blue dial offers exceptional legibility with:
- Applied rhodium-plated hour markers with Super-LumiNova
- Sword-shaped hour and minute hands with luminous coating
- Red-tipped GMT hand for clear second time zone reading
- Date window at 3 o’clock with cyclops magnification
- Applied Alpina triangle logo at 12 o’clock
Movement Specifications
The AL-550 automatic caliber is based on the Sellita SW330-1, featuring:
- 25 jewels
- 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
- 42-hour power reserve
- Decorated rotor with Alpina logo
- Incabloc shock protection system
- Accuracy: +/- 15 seconds per day
The “4” Standards
True to Alpina’s heritage, the watch adheres to the four essential sports watch features:
- Anti-magnetic: Protected against magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m
- Anti-shock: Impact-resistant according to ISO 1413 standard
- Water-resistant: 100 meters (10 ATM)
- Stainless steel: Corrosion-resistant case and components
Strap and Comfort
The watch comes with multiple strap options:
- Brown calfskin leather with white contrast stitching
- Stainless steel bracelet with triple-folding clasp
- Quick-release spring bars for easy strap changes
- Comfortable padding and ergonomic design
Functionality
The GMT functionality offers several practical features:
- Independent hour hand setting for local time adjustment
- 24-hour GMT hand for second time zone tracking
- Rotating bezel for third time zone monitoring
- Quick-set date function
Value Analysis
Price positioning and market comparison:
- Competitive pricing in the Swiss luxury GMT watch segment
- Strong value proposition compared to similar complications from other brands
- Excellent finishing quality for the price point
- Comprehensive warranty coverage
Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Robust build quality and reliable movement
- Excellent legibility and practical GMT function
- Versatile design suitable for both casual and formal wear
- Strong anti-magnetic properties
Limitations:
- 44mm case size may be large for smaller wrists
- 42-hour power reserve is shorter than some competitors
- Limited boutique availability in some regions
Conclusion
The Alpina Alpiner 4 GMT AL-550S5AQ6 represents exceptional value in the luxury sports watch category. It successfully combines practical functionality with refined aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers and watch enthusiasts who appreciate Swiss watchmaking tradition with modern capabilities.
The watch stands as a testament to Alpina’s commitment to producing high-quality timepieces that meet both professional standards and everyday wear requirements. Its combination of robust construction, practical complications, and attractive design makes it a compelling option in its price segment.
