DSF's review on his Alpina Startimer Pilot

Founded in Geneva in 1883, Alpina is a Swiss watch brand renowned for its robust timepieces inspired by military, diving (Seastrong), and aviation (Startimer) traditions. I'd like to introduce you to my recently acquired Startimer (ref. AL-525BBG4S26), a 41mm model introduced in 2022. It features the traditional AL-525 caliber (based on the SW200), offering a 38-hour power reserve, 26 jewels, and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The Startimer collection as a whole was recently updated in 2026 with an even more compact 40mm case and a new movement that extends the power reserve to 68 hours. My watch perfectly embodies Alpina's "aviation" DNA with a classic "pilot's watch" look (arrow at 12 o'clock, large, legible numerals) revisited in a modern and refined style. Its 11.5 mm thickness remains manageable. I love its clean and functional design thanks to its matte black dial, enhanced by luminescent beige hour markers that ensure optimal legibility. Another detail: the large seconds hand is polished and ends with the famous red triangular counterweight, the brand's visual signature. The crown, with its fluted "onion" profile, accentuates the aviator look. On the case back, we find the traditional engraving that accompanies all Startimer models. This one depicts an airplane preparing to fly over a mountain, accompanied by the Alpina logo. A water resistance of 10 ATM is an excellent feature for this type of watch. My 18.5 cm wrist is well-suited to the 41 mm case, and this size gives it a striking presence. The black calfskin strap with white stitching and a red lining seems to be of very high quality. The finishing on this Startimer is excellent. My only criticism is the date window at 6 o'clock, a complication I rarely adjust since I change watches daily. If you have a fairly large wrist and are interested in an aesthetically pleasing, versatile, highly legible watch with an "aviation" DNA and the precision of unpretentious Swiss craftsmanship, don't hesitate! Especially since prices tend to decrease with the arrival of the new version.