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EDITO Dear Alpinist CONTENTS YESTERDAY & TODAY THE MANUFACTURE QUALITY CONTROL CALIBRES
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UNIVERSES ADVENTURE . 30 RACING . 60 CLUB . 72
Alpina Watches Route de la Galaise 8 CH-1228 Plan les Ouates, Genève Switzerland Tel: +41 (0)22/860 87 40 Fax: +41 (0)22/860 04 64 www.alpina-watches.com
Right from the start of our involvement in Alpina, we had a clear vision of what we wanted the company to represent. We wanted to create a range of watches that offered bold, sexy and modern design, made to the highest production standards, and with the quality that comes with being handmade. We wanted to produce luxury sports watches at affordable prices. This we have achieved. We design our watches for people who want to be players in their own life, and not spectators. Our ambassadors represent this spirit: they are individuals who have dreams and the courage to pursue them and are making the most out of every situation. Like you, they work extremely hard but want to play even harder – and their Alpina watch is able to go with them everywhere. Today we are still producing the highest quality watches at the best prices. And we are still introducing new models into our collection. Amongst the new editions for this year you will find the Alpina Club Collection, new Sebring Limited Edition models or the limited edition Manufacture Regulator Double Digit, totally conceived and manufactured in-house. An Alpina watch is made with passion for people who know how to live. It can be worn equally well on a mountain top or in a boardroom, deep under the waves or in the trendiest nightspot. It is more than a fashion item: it is here today and will be here tomorrow, too.
Keep up to date with what is happening with Alpina and our ambassadors. Log on to our blog at http://blog.alpina-watches.ch
Have fun exploring our Universes and remember that life belongs to those who get involved.
Join us and become involved on www.facebook.com/Alpina.Watches
Don’t forget
For all the most up to date information check up on Alpina at http://twitter.com/Alpinawatches
BE A PLAYER Peter Stas
YES TER DAY.
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Right from the very beginning Alpina has been associated with innovation, and our beginning goes as far back as 1883. Whether it was an innovative way of working or introducing quality criteria to adhere to before anyone else, Alpina has always been looking for ways to improve. This is still true today, where we make great watches to the most exacting standards of haute horology, offering extraordinary value for money.
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YESTERDAY
The story of Alpina starts at the end of the 19th Century when Gottlieb Hauser founded the Swiss Watchmakers Corporation with other independent watchmakers of the region. Initially it was to purchase watch components and to organise the manufacturing but Alpina soon started developing and making our own calibres. In 1901, the name ‘Alpina’ was registered and appeared for the first time, but only on high end watches. Very soon Alpina was being sold internationally and at our height had nearly 2000 outlets all over the world selling our watches, an exceptional figure for those days. It is no exaggeration to say that Alpina was one of Europe’s leading watchmakers.
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technology may march on but some things won’t change *
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Part of the reason for this success, other than the rigorous dedication to design and quality, (values that still hold true today), was the introduction in 1938 of the Alpina 4. The number ‘4’ stood for the 4 core principles that each watch in the series had to have: anti-magnetism, water-resistance, anti-shock and in a stainless steel case. These principles gave a theme to the watches and can be said to have pointed the way to the development of what was to be the continued success of the company up until the 1970s. It was the so-called ‘Quartz Crisis’ that either sounded the death knell for many companies or meant the creation of major groups.
YESTERDAY
. an early 482 movement with chronograph from the 1930s
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In 2006, Alpina made one more move in its journey towards the future when we moved to our new, purpose built manufacturing site in Geneva, Switzerland, one of the spiritual homes of luxury watch making.
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The emergence of cheap, mass-produced and above-all impersonal, watches also nearly meant the end for Alpina. However, despite everything, Alpina hang tough and was revitalized in 2002 and the comeback was on. Working round the clock, a new collection was made ready for the BaselWorld show in 2003, where the models, whilst remaining true to the heritage of Alpina, were, never-the-less, resolutely modern.
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CHRONOLOGY
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1883 . 1890 . 1901 . 1909 . 1912 . 1913 . 1917 . . 1922 . 1926 . 1929 . 1933 .
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1929
Gottlieb Houser creates «Corporation des horlogers suisses» in Winterthur, the first of its kind. Soon corporations were making their own calibres. Corporation moves to Berne where Jacob Strauss had his movement manusfacture Alpina is registered as a trademark and used on the groups own high end watches Opens new offices in centre of German watchmaking, Glashütte; now corporation has centres also in Geneva (CH) and Besançon (F). First Alpina Glashütte Chronometre. Alpina Chronometres used by German navy. Group is forced to split in 2 with Swiss and German operations going seperate ways new name for Swiss group: «Alpina Association pour horlogers suisses». Over 2000 points of sale across Europe. Alpina creates its own journal for distributors. Joint partnership with American company Gruen so both companies can get access to corresponding distribution networks. Introduction of Alpina’s first sports watch, with an all steel case; Creation of a new crown (patent number 1464).
1938
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1938 . 1945 . 1957 . 1958 . 1971 . 2002 . 2003 . 2006 . 2007 . 2009 . 2010 .
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2003
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2006
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2010
Introduction of Alpina «4» concept. Creation of the famous 592, and because it is a supremely robust movement it will go on to be used in competitors watches. First Alpina automatic movement. Alpina President is created, the company’s first sports automatic. Over 1000 models avaiable. The Quartz Crisis hits European and American mechanical watch makers, including Alpina; Alpina remains an independent company. Alpina is bought by Frédérique Constant. First new collection of 15 models shown at Basel World 2003. 125th anniversary. Moves to new head quarters in Plan les Ouates Geneva Introduction of Alpina Avalanche Extreme, which goes on to sell out rapidly. Introduction of in-house manufacture movement and the Extreme Diver, water resistant to 1000 metre Manufacture Extreme Tourbillon introduced; Special Edition watch produced for the 12 Hours of Sebring race. Today, the success continues.
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TO DAY . . There are still core elements of the original philosophy that remain: A dedication to innovation. A commitment to producing the best watches at the best prices. A promise to respect the true beneficiary of an Alpina watch, the customer. A dedication to quality. And our independence - because we are still independent after all this time.
And like the Alpina 4 there are 4 new guiding principles at the heart of very new watch we design:
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putting the finishing touches to an AL950 movement
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• Big, bold and sexy design • Iconic looks • Premium materials with black and red finishing and • Every watch, without, exception is water-resistant to at least 10 ATM, (with the Diver Extreme going even further being tested and guaranteed to 100 ATM!)
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TODAY
Today, like yesterday, each watch is still assembled in Switzerland by hand by a team of skilled craftsmen and women. However, in our state of the art plant we use only the most modern precision tools to extensively check and control every watch that leaves our Manufacture to offer you the guarantee of maximum quality and durability. Alpina is once again available all over the world. Fans, collectors and aficionados alike can find their favourite time pieces in over 300 (and growing) selected high end watch retailers throughout the world; (for a full list of where to buy your next Alpina watch, see our website www.alpina-watches.com).
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nothing is too small, or too unimportant to check...
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If you are wanting the joy of owning a luxury Swiss-made wrist watch, that adheres to the traditions of great watch-making yet is definitely modern, (and you don’t want to pay a fortune for the privilege), then owning an Alpina Genève watch is your readymade solution.
THE MANU FACTU RE ... . . .1
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…and even the smallest part is positioned delicately by hand
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The history of watch making in Switzerland can be traced back hundreds of years to when dairy farmers used their downtime in the winter months to assemble precision watches. Even today, there is a tradition of those working in the industry starting early in the morning when the first rays of natural light start to break through at dawn.
THE MANUFACTURE
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Swiss-made means hand-made
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However, although a debt is still being paid to these pioneers in that we still place a premium on producing the finest movements in-house (and that a genuine Swiss made watch has to be assembled in the country), time has nonetheless marched on. Nowadays, computers, laser-guided cutting machines and state of the art microscopes are all part of the armoury of a modern watch maker. And we at Alpina are no different. Our new production equipment has greatly increased precision.
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THE MANUFACTURE
In 2006 we moved the production and back office to our purpose built manufacturing plant in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, a short step away from the capital itself and the shores of the world famous Lake Léman. Covering 3200 m², the building is home to the dedicated craftsmen and women who assemble the watches, as well as all the other trades that are necessary to get your watch to you.
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* technology has marched on, but some things have stayed the same
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It is also here that our unique Manufacture watches are conceived, designed and built, totally in-house, and it is here, too, that every watch, without exception, is fully tested and put through a rigorous series of quality control tests. Throughout every stage of the watch’s production it under goes a battery of trials. Before making its final journey to one of our exclusive distributors, the watch goes through one more series of controls, where it is subjected to tests that mirror real life conditions. More on this in the next chapter.
QUAL ITY CONT ROL ... . What sets a Swiss made watch apart from other watches is its peerless quality achieved by a dedication to excellence. And there are no short cuts taken. The only way to guarantee that your watch is perfect in every way when it reaches you is to submit it to an exacting quality control process. An Alpina watch is no exception. We are committed to manufacturing outstanding timepieces that are microscopically perfect. This effort is supported by meticulous quality control that ensures a faultless outcome every time. All our watch-makers have had extensive training in their chosen domain and we employ only those who have a real passion for the craft of watch-making. Each Alpina watch is therefore a labour of love by all concerned.
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controlling your watch
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When you buy your Alpina watch, whether it is the Extreme Automatic or one of our Tourbillon models with the most sophisticated calibres, you know that you are buying a watch assembled by hand, one by one. Each watch is put carefully together in a dust-free, air-controlled area where the white-coated lab technicians/craftsmen and women, often using tools that would still be recognisable to Herr Hauser, painstakingly assemble their mini-masterpieces. At each step, the watch is controlled for quality and once it has come together we subject it one final time to a last obstacle.
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QUALITY CONTROL
In our workshops, we have invested heavily in a series of digitally controlled machines that put your watch through a concluding sequence of trials, harder than almost anything it may come up against in real life. These tests include:
. If the watch does not pass any one of these tests
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IT DOES NOT LEAVE THE FACTORY
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The watch is placed in a fast tumbler exposing it to strong rotation forces it is then put inside a custom-made rotation device that simulates the movement of the wrist the watch is then taken out of the rotator and undergoes a full manual check the timing is then tested in three to five positions using the revolutionary Deltarox machine, the watch is then tested for its water resistance In keeping with our heritage, we undertake a final visual inspection to check for even miniscule scratches, particles or discolouration.
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CALI BRES ... . Alpina has historically made our own calibres, the soul of any watch, and today is no different for its manufacture calibres. Since 2003 we have brought 4 new Alpina calibres to the market. With the introduction of the Regulator Manufacture and the Regulator Tourbillon Alpina has once again joined the top table of the small and select group of Swiss watch manufacturers that completely produce their own calibres totally in-house.
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A Manufacture Calibre is the ultimate achievement in the art of horology and the definitive demonstration of a watch-maker’s skill..
AL-950 Our first Manufacture calibre since our rejuvination. The caliber was entirely developed in-house by our own engineers, the parts machined on our CNC machines and the assembled by our team of skilled and dedicated craftsmen and women.
AL-525 The AL525 is an extemely reliable movement, which is why you’ll find it gracing our watches that have been designed to be put through their paces, such as the “Extreme Diver” and the “12 Hours of Sebring” series. This is a finely decorated movement sporting a specially conceived rotor.
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CALIBRES
Accuracy The accuracy of a mechanical movement is dependent on the accuracy of the timing device, and the timing device for an Alpina mechanical calibre is its balance wheel, the balance spring and the escapement. The balance wheel is a wheel that spins on its own axis. In our case at a frequency of 4Hz. This frequency is what determines the accuracy of the movement and hence the watch. The crucial element, therefore, in escapement design is to give just enough energy to the balance wheel in order to keep it swinging back and forth regularly and to interfere with its movement as little as possible. Each swing of the wheel moves the gear train (called a ‘tick’ or a ‘beat’) a set amount and moves the hands forward.
AL-980 The summit of the art of watch-making is the Tourbillon calibre and our AL980 Tourbillon (meaning whirlwind in French ) calibre, also developed and produced uniquely at our workshops in Geneva, incorporates two major new technologies.
AL-650 Based on the famous Unitas Ebauche, this was originally a calibre for pocket watches. We modified the ébauche on our CNC machine and it is now a calibre for the Regulator series. The calibre is assembled in house in our workshops.
A Silicium escapement wheel and anchor give the calibre faultless accuracy, even under extreme conditions. No oil is needed to lubricate the escapement mechanism, meaning it is lighter and needs almost no revision. The SMART weight balancing system, (patent pending), enables further improvement to the movements precision.
AL-725 The well-known Valjoux 7750 variant in which the small second has been removed to create a vertical and more easily read automatic chronograph. This is a beautifully decorated movement.
. AL-650 MANUAL .
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AL-980
AL-650 AUTOMATIC .
AL-950
AL-525
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. AL-725 .
The escapement, in turn, must keep the balance spring winding and unwinding. The teeth of the escapement wheel are powered by the main spring power source and they actually slide against the ratchet teeth before they lock before kicking the anchor. In a modern escapement the teeth of a ratchet are from a very hard and highly polished stone. The gentle ticking sound an Alpina makes is the sound of the balance spring gear and the teeth of the escapement locking into each other. In our Manufacture , we run CNC* machines when making the components for our Manufacture Calibres. This way, we are able to guarantee the precision of the parts. Furthermore, any modifications undertaken on existing ébauches are also performed on these machines. Operating our own CNC machines enables us to create new calibre modifications at a significantly reduced cost, in keeping with our philosophy. This saving we pass on to you, meaning we are sure that an Alpina watch represents the best value money in the luxury watch market.
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*CNC = computer numerical control
DO YOU
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ALPINA
BE A PLAYER
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SPEAK
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Etymology : Early 13th Century: auenture “chance, fortune, luck” (from Old French)
Humankind was never designed to stay still. We are built to seek out new experiences, new places, new ideas, new things. It is in our nature to be curious and to want to find out what is over there, what is around the corner, what is behind the mountain, what is on the bottom of the sea or even what is out beyond the stars
Our Adventure Universe is made up of a range stunning watches, conceived with the adventurer in mind. Each watch is made to the most exacting standards and is able to withstand even the most rigorous of trials. Whether it is freeriding down some of the world’s most dangerous off-piste slopes or diving deep in inhospitable conditions, or just seeking the pleasure of thrills over a weekend, you will find one or more of our watches perfectly able to accompany you on your own personal adventure.
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An unusual or exciting experience
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A bold, usually risky undertaking
hazardous action of uncertain outcome.
This adventurous spirit, these experiences, can create psychological and physiological arousal, and perhaps because of the risks involved, lead to extreme satisfaction upon a successful completion. The oldest and most widespread stories in the world, crossing borders, cultures, languages and religions are, after all, stories of adventure.
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Adventure
. Chris MacClugage Chris needs a watch that is tough but as high performance as he is. He needs a watch that will stand up to all the rigours a Jet Ski racer can throw at it. He needs the Alpina Extreme Diver, rugged, sexy, and extremely resistant.
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Alpina is proud to be the official sponsor of Chris MacClugage and is honoured that he has chosen to wear our watches while competing in the most extreme circumstances.
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When you are standing up on a high performance jet ski capable of doing over 100 kph, being buffeted by strong off shore winds and hitting breakers large enough to send you flying several metres in the air and you are still able to keep control, when you know that any false move could be fatal, and yet you still ride out every day to confront these challenges and come out a winner, then your name is Chris MacClugage, the 13 time World Pro Jet Ski Champion.
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Because Aurélien’s world is one of extreme challenges, where the conditions on the mountains or on the high seas are always changing and never less than dangerous, he has to have a watch that he can rely on in all circumstances. That is why he has chosen the Extreme Regulator to accompany him in all his adventures. .1
A truly modern adventurer needs a truly modern watch, and one of today’s most exciting and daring adventurers is Aurélien Ducroz, World Freeride Champion in 2009.
Not satisfied with being one of the world’s leading free-riders, (an extreme winter sport where the participants dice with death every time they put on their skis), Aurélien has set himself an even more demanding challenge – to cross the 4200 miles of the Atlantic Ocean solo in a Transat 6.50 sailing boat.
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Aurélien Ducroz
MANUFACTURE
REGULATOR In 2008, to celebrate our 125th anniversary, we launched what was the brand new Manufacture Calibre. Only a select few watch makers are able to make these demanding movements and we are proud to be able to renew the tradition. The Manufacture Regulator has been one of the cornerstones of the successful revival of this historic brand. Every aspect of the calibre was developed in house, inspired by the past
but built with today’s design and technical know-how. The movement features an automatic winding mechanism that incorporates Alpina’s trademark rotor – a further salute to the past and to the celebrated designers (Straub & Co.) of our first automatic calibre, the 582. A recent classic movement, the AL-950 proves that heritage and state-of-the-art working methods can work in perfect harmony. New this year is the “Double Digit” Manufacture Regulator in 18K Rose Gold and Black PVD case, a limited edition of only 125 pieces. Technical information Ø 46 :: Automatic :: 20 ATM
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ADVENTURE
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REGULATOR
AL-950BB4AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated steel bezel 20 ATM water resistance
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46 ø MANUFACTURE
Black PVD coated steel case and bezel 20 ATM water resistance
46 ø MANUFACTURE
REGULATOR
AL-950BB4FBAE6 Black PVD coated steel case and bezel 20 ATM water resistance
ADVENTURE
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AL-950LBG4FBAE6
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REGULATOR
AL-950LBG4AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated steel bezel 20 ATM water resistance
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ADVENTURE
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REGULATOR
AL-950LBB4AE9 18k Gold case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 20 ATM water resistance
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EXTREME
REGULATOR Introduced in 2006 for the first time, the Extreme Regulator rapidly became a popular choice for fans of both technical and sports watches. Building upon Alpina’s rich heritage of producing high end sports watches, its antecedents are clear, it is, however, a resolutely modern timepiece incorporating all the classic Alpina design elements. The series perfectly embodies the modern Alpina’s 4 principles: water resistant, shock proof, anti-magnetic and encased in a super tough stainless steel body. The 48mm is
available in 3 case finishings, stainless steel, matt black PVD coated stainless steel and rose gold plated stainless steel, while the Ladies Extreme Regultor, for extra elegance, has a white ceramic case. The Extreme Regulator also comes with either applied simple indexes or applied “Double Digit” Arabic numerals for greater legibility. This year sees the introduction of two new additions to the range. Firstly, the Extreme Regulator “Double Digit” 42mm in either steel and black or rose gold and black. Slightly smaller than its big brother for a touch more subtlety, it is just as tough and just as desirable. The second introduction is the stunning “Double Digit” Rocks, a large, (48mm), gentleman’s watch inset with diamonds. Technical information Ø 48 :: manual :: 10 ATM Ø 42 :: automatic :: 10 ATM
ADVENTURE
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AL-650LBBB5FBAE6 Black PVD coated stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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REGULATOR
AL-650BB5AE4 Rose gold plated stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
REGULATOR
AL-650LBBB5AE4 Rose gold plated stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
AL-650LBBB5AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
ADVENTURE
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48 ø EXTREME
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REGULATOR
AL-650BB5AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
REGULATOR
AL-650BB5FBAE6 Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 10 ATM water resistance
ADVENTURE
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48 ø EXTREME
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REGULATOR
AL-650LSSS3AEDC4 White ceramic case Rose gold plated stainless steel bezel inset with diamonds 10 ATM water resistance
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42 ø EXTREME
ADVENTURE
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AL-650BB3AE4 Rose gold plated stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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REGULATOR
AL-650BB3AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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EXTREME
DIVER The Extreme Diver is exactly what it says it is! Rock solid quality, and with eye catching design, the Extreme Diver is able to descend to 1000 metres with no difficulty. Any true diver’s watch will be equipped with a uni-directional
rotating bezel for measuring dive time, and the Extreme Diver is no exception. The bezel can only be turned counter-clockwise for extra security when measuring elapsed dive time, with notches around the edge for better grip, even with diving gloves. It ratchets as it turns, with a clear click that can be heard when the bezel fits into place, meaning that once in place, it stays in place. Even if your electric timing equipment fails, you can always depend on the Alpina Extreme Diver. The built-in helium escape valve, located at the 10 o’clock position, is another essential feature. When diving to extreme depths for long periods of time, helium can build up in the case and, if there was nowhere for it to escape from, it will expand and damage the watch when ascending. This escape valve, used during the decompression stop, allows the Alpina Extreme Diver 1000 M mechanism to remain intact, dive after dive. The Extreme Diver represents a real opportunity for professional and amateur divers alike to own their own high quality divers’ watch. Technical information Ø 48 :: automatic :: 100 ATM Unidirectional turning bezel with luminous indexes and numbers
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ADVENTURE
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DIVER
AL-525LBCD5FBAEV6 Black PVD coated stainless steel case Uni-directional bezel Blue luminous indexes - 100 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
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ADVENTURE
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DIVER
AL-525LFB5FBAEV6 Black PVD coated stainless steel case Uni-directional bezel Black luminous indexes - 100 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
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ADVENTURE
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DIVER
AL-525LBB5AEV6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel uni-directional bezel White luminous indexes - 100 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
EXTREME
AUTOMATIC For those who want a powerful sports watch that can go with you everywhere, the Extreme Automatic is ideal. Large and uncompromising, the Extreme Automatic, like all Alpina watches, is bold in both design and character. Equipped with the no-nonsense
automatic AL-525 movement, the Extreme Automatic comes in three different case finishes: stainless steel, matt black PVD coated stainless steel or rose-gold plated stainless steel. The movement bridges are decorated with “perlage” and blue steel screws, and the specifically designed rotor of this Automatic Alpina caliber, visible through a large sapphire crystal case back, gives the Extreme Automatic its strength and personality. Technical information Ø 48 :: automatic :: 20 ATM
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ADVENTURE
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AUTOMATIC
AL-525BB5AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 20 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 20 ATM water resistance
48 ø EXTREME
AUTOMATIC
AL-525LBB5FBAE6 Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 20 ATM water resistance
ADVENTURE
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AL-525BB5FBAE6
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AUTOMATIC
AL-525LBS5AE6 Stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 20 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
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ADVENTURE
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REGULATOR
AL-525LBB5AE4 Rose gold plated stainless steel case Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 20 ATM water resistance
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48 ø EXTREME
A sports race is a competition of speed, against the clock and/or against others, sometimes with nothing other than our feet to propel us, sometimes using the most up-to-date technology. The key element in any race is the notion of competition, the desire to push the limits of what is humanely possible in trying to win. As with seeking adventure, the desire to go ever faster has always fascinated, and the idea of racing one against another just for the pleasure of seeing who wins, is uniquely human.
And the same is true of our watches in the Racing Universe. Classic timepieces, elegant design, true to the heritage of Alpina but benefitting from cutting edge precision engineering in their conception, production and testing to ensure that every classic that leaves our manufacture is perfect in every way. It is not by chance that we are the proud partners of one of the oldest series of motor races, the 12 Hours of Sebring. .
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Etymology: 13th Century, Middle English/Norse
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Race: A contest of speed - Any contest or competition, esp. to achieve superiority
To feel the wind in our faces, to experience the thrill and excitement of doing everything we can to win is one of our oldest, and defining, characteristics. All cultures, and all times, have raced, and even though technology might change, the basic concept, the basic pleasure, remains timeless and unchanging.
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That is why Alpina is privileged to partner him in his quest to be champion. We are thrilled that Romain has chosen to wear one of our watches knowing that the design, quality and sheer desirability of an Alpina watch is the perfect complement to him and his chosen passion - speed. .1
Who has never wanted to throw a high performance luxury sports car round a race track at the highest speeds possible? Who has never dreamed of racing at speeds of over 300 kph in a dream car, knowing that danger is every corner, but knowing also that there is nothing so exhilarating as the power of speed?
Romain Brandela is a professional racing driver and it his job to race these cars on the FFSA GT and FIA circuits, piloting a race-going Lamborghini to victory. Romain has been passionate about motor racing for as long as he can remember, and passionate about high quality sports watches, too.
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Romain Brandela
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RACING
SEBRING Imagine pushing your high performance sports car, tuned to go even faster, to its limits, and sometimes beyond, round a hot, dusty, bumpy race track, surrounded by other cars and drivers trying to beat you. Imagine you are lapping a 7km race track in under 2 minutes. And imagine that you are doing so for 12 hours, lap after lap after lap. This is what the drivers in the 58th Edition of the 12 Hours of Sebring did when they took part in this classic test of endurance. No ordinary watch will do in these circumstances, which
is why we have created the Alpina Extreme «12 Hours of Sebring»Limited Edition, available in its own highly desirable presentation case and identical to the watch awarded only to the winner of this prestigious race. The partnership between Alpina and Sebring Raceway forms the perfect match between two of the most important players in their respective fields. Its handsome matt black patterned dial is encased in a rugged 47mm black or stainless steel case. Its elegant black strap with hand sown red stitching, which finds an echo in the pattern at the centre of the dial, is a reminder of the leather seats of classic performance cars. Encased back and front with sapphire crystal for clearer visibility for when the going gets tough, the transparent exhibition case back allows one to witness Alpina’s signature oscillating weight in action. Don’t let its good looks fool you, however. This watch is built for racing and is just and tough and reliable as you would expect from Alpina. Technical information Ø 47 :: 10 ATM
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RACING
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SEBRING
AL-750LBR5FBAR6 Automatic GMT Chronograph Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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47 ø 12 HOURS OF
SEBRING
AL-525LBR5FBAR6 Automatic Stainless steel case, Black PVD coated stainless steel bezel 10 ATM water resistance
RACING
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47 ø 12 HOURS OF
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SEBRING
AL-725LBR5FBAR6 Automatic Chronograph Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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47 ø 12 HOURS OF
SEBRING
AL-352LBR5AR6 Quartz, chronograph Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 10 ATM water resistance
RACING
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47 ø 12 HOURS OF
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SEBRING
AL-352LBR5FBAR6 Quartz, chronograph Black PVD coated stainless steel case and bezel 10 ATM water resistance
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47 ø 12 HOURS OF
When you have finished working hard, it is time to play even harder. You have forged yourself a reputation as a player, someone who gets things done, and the last thing you want is a watch that lets you down, a watch that says you don’t have a mind of your own. The whole idea of being who YOU are is not to be just part of the crowd, but to show that you are an individual and not a number.
Featuring all the classic design elements, (tough, water resistant and bold, sexy design), that Alpina is celebrated for, its great design is what this watch is all about.
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Etymology: 1850-55
When you go out to party, when you hit town, you need to be properly dressed and no-one is properly dressed without the right watch. The Alpina Club series has been conceived with the King or Queen of the night time scene in mind. Whether you are partying with the trendiest DJ, being seen at the most exclusive club or hanging out in the hippest bar, your Alpina will help you claim your rightful place at the centre.
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the activity of people seeking nighttime diversion, as at a nightclub, theater, or the like.
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Cub
With your Alpina Club watch on your wrist, you are making a clear statement saying you know what you like and you know what you want and that you are able to make your own choices.
. The Alpina Doorman Challenge 2010
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This is why Alpina have continued their sponsorship of the Doorman Challenge held annually. Mixing fun with a challenge, the club goers have to use their wits and humour to try and get past the doormen. Only the wisest and smartest will succeed, and it is the wisest and smartest who chose an Alpina Genève watch.
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Arguably the most important person for even the most exclusive of clubs is the doorman. It is the Doorman that sets the standards and who decides who is in and who is out. It is the doorman that can make or break the reputation of a club by their selection policy. Getting past the Doorman is one of life’s great challenges.
MANUFACTURE
EXTREME TOURBILLON How do you know when you have arrived?
Answer: when you are able to wear an Alpina Manufacture Extreme Tourbillon. Only very few watchmakers make their own Tourbillon movements. A Tourbillon movement, apart from having its own rich history in the world of watch making, is considered to be one of the most challenging mechanisms to make, and is highly sought after by connoisseurs of the art of horology. It is extremely complicated to make due to its complex nature and the great accuracy demanded of all the parts. The development of the AL-980 Calibre took three years of intense labour, three years of research and development, with a team of specialist designers, engineers and watch technicians working hand-in-hand to revive Alpina as a true Manufacture. The Al-980 Calibre, the heart and soul of the Club Manufacture Extreme Tourbillon, is a unique movement that presents several distinctive and innovative features: a Silicium* escapement wheel and lever; Smart Weight Balancing; and a fast oscillation of 28800 BpH. This is a real connoisseurs watch but for a lot less than you would expect. Based on the best selling Regulator design, the Extreme Tourbillon features a sub dial at 10 o’clock displaying the hour, with an open cage holding the Tourbillon at 6 o’clock. The case is far from standard as well: for extra durability we make the case out of either solid 18K gold or titanium. This is the most spectacular watch in the Alpina collection and only a limited few are being produced. The Manufacture Extreme Tourbillon is truly the ultimate Alpina: smart, complicated, different, sexy, rare, bold – and able to hold its own whether high on a mountain, making the most high powered executive decisions, deep under water or in any of the world’s most exclusive of resorts. A real Formula 1 watch. Technical information Ø 48 :: Automatic :: 10 ATM * Silicium, the Latin name for Silicon, is used because of its naturally occurring advantage of not needing oil, therefore reducing the friction incurred and prolonging the life of the movement – making this a watch that your grandchildren’s grandchildren will appreciate.
CLUB
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Limited series
AL-980BC5AE9 18K rose gold case Black ceramic bezel 10 ATM water resistance 18 pieces
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EXTREME TOURBILLON
AL-980BC5AE8 Titanium case Black ceramic bezel 10 ATM water resistance 18 pieces
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48 ø MANUFACTURE
CLUB
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Limited series
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EXTREME TOURBILLON
AL-980BBT5FBAE6 Black DLC (Diamond Like Carbon)Titanium case Black ceramic bezel 10 ATM water resistance 18 pieces
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48 ø MANUFACTURE
CLUB
MANUFACTURE REGULATOR Let’s face it – you haven’t got where you are by copying the herd. You are your own person and you need a watch that is independent and as smart as you are. The Club Manufacture Regulator is that watch. A harmonious marriage of the classic Alpina Regulator design, with its off–set hour sub-dial and the date visible in its own dial at 6 o’clock, and the elegantly but subtly rounded style of the Club range, the Club Manufacture Regulator is tailored for style leaders, not followers. Making it even more attractive is knowing that you are getting a watch with a Manufacture calibre, that has been entirely developed and produced by our team of highly trained watchmakers at our head office in Geneva. This is a classically elegant watch, rich in tradition but built with tomorrow in mind, a watch that you can wear anywhere but hosting a real sports pedigree under its sophisticated outerwear. Every part of the watch has been hand finished and its assembly has been undertaken by our expert craftsmen and women in Plan-les-Ouates, Switzerland. Its aesthetics, its sleek but strong appearance, means you’ll want to keep your sleeves rolled up when you are wearing this watch. Technical information Ø 48 :: Automatic :: 10 ATM
Stainless steel case 10 ATM water resistance
CLUB
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MANUFACTURE REGULATOR
AL-950B4RC6
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CLUB
10
48 ø
CLUB
AUTOMATIC When you buy an Alpina Club Automatic you expect not only precision, sexy design and a watch made to last more than a lifetime, which is of course what you get, but you also expect to be able to make a statement. The Alpina Club Automatic says that you know quality when you see it; you know how to find excellent value; you don’t follow the crowd, you lead it; you know your own mind and you are not afraid of taking charge. Both bold and sophisticated at the same time, the Club Automatic is the perfect watch to accompany you when you want to work and when you want to play. This one addition to your wardrobe is the perfect accoutrement for today’s player. Fitted as standard with ultra-hard scratch-proof sapphire crystals front and back to make sure nothing impedes your view of the details or the workings of the watch, the delicately polished cases are made all that more sophisticated by the subtly rounded edges and angles of the case. Technical information Ø 44 :: Automatic :: 10 ATM
Back PVD coated stainless steel case 10 ATM water resistance
CLUB
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AUTOMATIC
AL-525B4FBRC6
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CLUB
10
44 ø
CLUB
AUTOMATIC
AL-525B4RC6 Stainless steel case 10 ATM water resistance
CLUB
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AUTOMATIC
Rose gold plated stainless steel case 10 ATM water resistance
44 ø
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CLUB
AL-525B4RC4
10
44 ø
CLUB
CHRONOGRAPH Impeccable elegance. Guaranteed performance. Stand out style. Eye catching sophistication. All this and the traditional Alpina values of supreme build quality and extreme sports watch features. The Club Chronograph shares the same design heritage as its brothers in the rest of the Club range, with its rounded edges and soft curves making it a must have object for anyone who knows what good style is.
Fitted with a super accurate chronograph for when you need to know, to the fraction of a second, how long something takes. The Club Chronograph also has a clear date window at 12 o’clock for when those party nights roll into one. The Club Chronograph is fitted with the latest Quartz movement, so even when you have finished partying, you watch keeps on going. Its smart looks make it as at home on the trendiest dance floor as it is in the chicest office. Technical information Ă˜ 44 :: Quartz :: 10 ATM
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CLUB
AL-353BS4RC6 Stainless steel case Silver sub dial 10 ATM water resistance
CLUB
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CHRONOGRAPH
AL-353B4RC6 Stainless steel case Black sub dial 10 ATM water resistance
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CLUB
10
44 ø
ADVENTURE Chris MacClugage Pro Jet Ski Open - Pro Runabout Open - 13 Time World Champion. www.maccracing.com Aurélien Ducroz 2009 World Freeride champion www.aurelienducroz.com
RACING “12 Hours of SEBRING” www.sebringraceway.com Romain Brandela Gentleman racing driver on the FFSA GT3 circuit
CLUB Greenhouse - New York www.greenhouseusa.com
Printed by
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Jess Hoffman Dan Serrer www.ronnymac.com Thierry Lagadec Greenhouse New Yor
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photos credit
Les Alchimistes +33(0)4 50 09 06 22 E-mail : info@lesalchimistes.fr
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Imagination
Alpina Watches Route de la Galaise 8 CH-1228 Plan les Ouates, Genève Switzerland Tel: +41 (0)22/860 87 40 Fax: +41 (0)22/860 04 64 www.alpina-watches.com