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Alpina Unveils New Timepieces Featuring Solar Technology and Race-Inspired Designs at Geneva Watch Days
Alpina has made a significant statement at Geneva Watch Days by launching several new timepieces, showcasing a blend of advanced technology and adventurous spirit. Key among these releases is the expansion of its solar-powered Solarmetre technology into the Startimer Pilot collection, introducing a versatile 38mm case size that caters to a wider audience. Furthermore, the brand is commemorating its partnership with the 13th Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe race by releasing two exclusive limited-edition watches, each reflecting the rigorous demands and visual language of offshore sailing. These new offerings underscore Alpina's commitment to innovation and its heritage in sports watchmaking.
The innovative Solarmetre technology, initially featured in the Alpiner collection, has now been seamlessly integrated into the Startimer Pilot series. This advancement is made possible by the AL-140 solar quartz caliber, developed by the esteemed Swiss manufacturer La Joux-Perret. This sophisticated movement harnesses both natural and artificial light, allowing the watch to operate for an impressive ten months in complete darkness once fully charged. The technology functions through a translucent dial, which permits light to reach the underlying solar cells, converting it into electricity and storing it in a rechargeable battery. This integration not only enhances the watches' functionality but also aligns with a sustainable approach to timekeeping.
The introduction of the new 38mm diameter to the Startimer Pilot collection marks a strategic move towards more universally appealing proportions, while maintaining the distinctive aviation-inspired design first seen at Watches and Wonders 2026. This launch includes three distinct variations, each highlighting the adaptability of the solar dial. Options comprise a stainless steel model with a black grained dial and a matching black leather strap, another stainless steel version featuring a navy blue grained dial paired with a Cordura fabric strap, and a champagne-colored PVD stainless steel edition with a brown grained dial and a sand beige NATO strap. Each solar-powered model is subtly distinguished by blue accents on Alpina’s signature triangle, adding a touch of unique style. Pricing for the black and navy blue stainless steel models is set at $1,495, while the champagne-colored PVD variant retails for $1,695.
Turning its attention to the aquatic realm, Alpina proudly serves as the official timekeeper for the 13th Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe, a renowned solo transatlantic race commencing on November 1, 2026. To celebrate this significant collaboration and its support for French skipper Éric Péron, Alpina has unveiled two individually numbered limited-edition watches. These timepieces draw inspiration from the challenging conditions and visual identity of offshore racing. The Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic x Route du Rhum, limited to 313 pieces, introduces a vibrant turquoise dial, adorned with a pattern reminiscent of Atlantic Ocean currents. Its design features a compass-graduated bidirectional bezel with a carbon fiber insert, an engraved race route on the caseback, and a distinctive red '13' in the date display, all reinforcing its maritime theme. Encased in a compact 39 x 40.5mm stainless steel body, this automatic model boasts 300 meters of water resistance and is complemented by a two-tone turquoise and black textured rubber strap, retailing at $2,295.
The Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre x Route du Rhum, limited to 513 pieces, further extends Alpina's solar technology into this maritime partnership. This model features a compact 37.5 x 38.9mm stainless steel case, housing a black solar dial with Alpina's characteristic triangle pattern and turquoise accents. It is equipped with a carbon fiber bezel insert, a black rubber strap, and a caseback engraved with the transatlantic race route. Powered by the AL-140 solar quartz caliber, it can operate for up to ten months in darkness after a full charge and is priced at $1,495. These new releases from Geneva Watch Days collectively broaden Alpina's presence across air, land, and sea, showcasing innovative solar technology, refined proportions, and a design philosophy deeply rooted in exploration and endurance, solidifying the brand's position in the sports watch market.
These latest releases from Geneva Watch Days effectively broaden Alpina's footprint across various domains, including air, land, and sea. They skillfully combine solar technology, ergonomic case sizes, and purpose-driven designs with the brand's enduring commitment to exploration and durability. The new Startimer Pilot Solarmetre integrates solar power into its aviation collection while introducing a new 38mm case size, offering enhanced wearability. Simultaneously, the limited-edition Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic x Route du Rhum and Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre x Route du Rhum models celebrate the brand's official timekeeping role in the prestigious transatlantic race. These additions highlight Alpina's continuous innovation and its dedication to crafting high-performance sports watches that meet diverse needs.
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