Description
The Alpina 130 Pilot Heritage Chronograph (AL-860S4H6) represents a masterful blend of horological heritage and contemporary watchmaking expertise. This timepiece serves as a testament to Alpina’s century-long commitment to producing high-quality pilot watches.
Design and Construction
The watch showcases a meticulously crafted 41.5mm stainless steel case with a height of 14.7mm, striking an ideal balance between presence and wearability. The case features a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, highlighting Alpina’s attention to detail.
- Multi-layered cream-colored dial with sunburst finish
- Applied Arabic numerals with Super-LumiNova coating
- Thermally blued steel hands for optimal contrast
- Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Scratch-resistant sapphire exhibition caseback
- Vintage-inspired pump pushers for chronograph operation
Technical Specifications
The watch is powered by the sophisticated AL-860 automatic chronograph movement, which builds upon the trusted Sellita SW500 base caliber. This movement features:
- Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
- Jewels: 25
- Power reserve: 46 hours
- Automatic winding with ball bearing rotor
- Chronograph functions: Central seconds, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock
- Date window positioned at 6 o’clock
- Hacking seconds feature for precise time setting
Heritage Design Elements
The 130 Pilot Heritage Chronograph pays meticulous tribute to Alpina’s aviation timepieces from the 1930s through several distinctive features:
- Telemeter scale on the outer dial ring
- Cathedral-style hands reminiscent of vintage pilot watches
- Bi-compax chronograph layout typical of classical chronographs
- Vintage Alpina logo and typography
- Period-correct boxed date window
Strap and Comfort
The watch comes equipped with a 21mm brown Cognac leather strap featuring:
- Hand-stitched construction with ecru thread
- Vintage-style pin buckle in brushed stainless steel
- Natural leather lining for comfort
- Quick-release spring bars for easy strap changes
Functionality and Performance
Despite its vintage aesthetic, the watch offers modern reliability and functionality:
- Water resistance to 100 meters (330 feet)
- Screw-down crown with double gasket system
- Chronograph accurate to 1/8th of a second
- Enhanced shock resistance system
- Anti-magnetic properties
Value and Market Position
The Alpina 130 Pilot Heritage Chronograph positions itself competitively in the luxury watch market, offering:
- Swiss-made quality at a reasonable price point
- Limited production numbers ensuring exclusivity
- Full manufacturer warranty
- Strong resale value potential
Packaging and Presentation
The watch comes in a premium presentation box including:
- Wooden display case with Alpina branding
- Certificate of authenticity
- Detailed instruction manual
- International warranty card
Conclusion
The Alpina 130 Pilot Heritage Chronograph AL-860S4H6 exemplifies the perfect marriage of historical design and modern watchmaking. It offers watch enthusiasts a compelling combination of authentic heritage, mechanical sophistication, and everyday wearability. This timepiece stands as an excellent choice for collectors who appreciate both the technical aspects of chronograph movements and the rich history of aviation timepieces.
