So-called “blackout” editions are a difficult sell to me. That said, a PVD-coated, an all black watch that looks like something Darth Vader would wear to prom might be your cup of tea and Alpina has a watch for you.
The Startimer Pilot Heritage Automatic Chronograph Blackout Edition is a $2,995 chronograph featuring a AL?727 caliber, automatic mono?pusher chronograph that comes in a black 42mm PVD-coated case. The watch is limited 50 units and is available now.
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From the release:
The Startimer Pilot Heritage Chronograph is returning to the essence of the sports watch invented by Alpina in 1883 with its iconic case fitted with a chronograph, the ultimate complication for all lovers of high-precision mechanical sports pieces.
This bicompax chronograph measures short time intervals (30 minutes) thanks to the AL-727 caliber, which oscillates at a high frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vib/h) to ensure accuracy and shock-resistance, two cornerstones of the Alpina spirit. This Startimer movement also offers a 55-hour power reserve: almost 45% more than its predecessor. Finally, in the purest historical chronograph tradition, it has a single push piece, just like the first Alpina sport chronographs almost a century ago.
The Startimer is supposed to have a second time zone but this model is aimed at lovers of bullhead chronos. You can check out the GMT models here.
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Alpina has been doing some good work these days with fit and finish and I’m impressed by their current selection. They’re definitely a brand to watch if you’re looking for vintage-inspired chronos and GMTs.