April 23 2026

A Sharper Take On An Aviation Classic: The New Alpina Startimer

MRSTATELESS ALPINA, NEW RELEASES 2026, Pilot Watch, Watches and Wonders 2026 0

With its latest update, Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic refines one of the brand’s most recognizable collections by sharpening its proportions and doubling down on functionality. The result is a cleaner, more wearable pilot’s watch that stays true to its purpose: uncompromising legibility and dependable performance.

More Compact, More Balanced

One of the most significant changes is in the case dimensions. Alpina has reduced the size, leaving the stainless steel case with a diameter of 40 mm and a thickness of only 10.14 mm. This reduction improves overall balance on the wrist without sacrificing the visual presence expected from a pilot’s watch.

The case features a predominantly satin-brushed finish, reinforcing its tool-watch identity while minimizing reflections. Practicality is further enhanced by a large, easy-to-grip crown with pronounced knurling, designed for effortless operation—even with gloves.

Legibility as the Priority

The Startimer remains firmly rooted in aviation principles, where clarity is paramount. Alpina simplifies the design by removing the 12-hour bezel scale, allowing the dial to take full focus.

Legibility is ensured through oversized applied Arabic numerals filled with generous luminescent material, paired with broad Flieger-style hands that are equally well coated. The high-contrast layout makes reading the time immediate and intuitive in any environment. Thanks to their three-dimensional construction, the numerals offer more surface area for lume, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting glow in low-light conditions.

Dial Execution and Variants

The dial itself is crafted from brass and finished with a matte, grainy texture that effectively absorbs light, reducing glare in bright environments—an essential characteristic for aviation use.

The collection is offered in four variations. The stainless steel models are available with black, petrol blue, or khaki green dials. The black version features crisp white numerals for maximum contrast, while the blue and green dials introduce softer light green lume accents for a slightly more contemporary look. In addition, Alpina offers a black PVD-coated version with vintage beige luminescent numerals, giving it a more retro-inspired character.

Across all versions, a date window is positioned at 6 o’clock, maintaining symmetry on the dial with white text set against a black background. A subtle red “Startimer” signature adds a touch of color, echoed by the red-tipped seconds hand.

Movement Upgrade: More Autonomy

Powering the watch is the Alpina AL-525 automatic caliber, based on the La Joux-Perret G100. This movement represents a notable upgrade, delivering a robust 68-hour power reserve, allowing the watch to continue running comfortably through an entire weekend off the wrist.

The movement is housed behind a closed steel case back, consistent with the watch’s tool-oriented nature. Instead of a display window, Alpina opts for an engraved medallion featuring an aviation motif, adding character while preserving durability.

Everyday Versatility

Despite its aviation roots, the Startimer is designed to adapt easily to daily wear. It offers 100 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for everyday activities.

Each variant comes paired with a strap that complements its design. The blue and green dial versions are matched with brown leather straps, while the black dial model is fitted with a Cordura strap featuring red stitching and a leather lining. The PVD-coated version is delivered on a light brown leather NATO-style strap with matching black hardware.

Pricing

The 2026 Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic is positioned competitively, with the stainless steel models priced at € 1,295, while the black PVD variant is available for € 1,395.