We Need To Talk About Alpina: Massively Underrated Swiss Automatics - Alpiner Extreme Watch Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.พ. 2023
- Today we review an important watch from an overlooked brand. What's so special about Alpina? And why is their Alpiner Extreme a watch worth talking about? In this video I explore the positives and negatives of this watch, the brand's design evolution, competitive value and history, and why they are quite possibly the most underrated heritage Swiss watchmaker when it comes to the modern sports watch as we know it. Join me for a review of a brand never before featured on this channel, to see if the Alpiner Extreme lives up to its name. What do you think about this Alpina watch? Please share in the comments!
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We need to talk more about Certina and hope it returns to it's glory days 😊
Nothing to talk about Certina. It is swacth group, it shares same office with Tissot and costs the same....
@@AdamantSeraphso? Omega is swatch group even longines and they are hell of a watches
I love my DS-1. Been my daily for years.
My DS Podium from 2014 is superb!
Alpina is super underrated. I own one of their monopushers with the la joux perret movements. Absolutely incredible value and runs near COSC spec without regulation!
I was introduced to Alpina early on in watch collecting. Presently, I have the Alpina Alpiner. For the last twelve years I have been living and working in Europe. It seems that Alpina is quite popular here.
wow the timing! I was looking at one of these YESTERDAY thinking "why does nobody ever mention these"
🙌🙌🙌 So happy to hear that, this Brin has some sleeper hits in their arsenal or sure!
Thank you for sharing that.
Best regards,
TGV
May I nominate Union Glashutte? Very under the radar brand. I call them the German Oris, or at least Oris of 15 years ago before they became popular.
I own 5 Alpinas. The fit and finish are excellent and the quality is fantastic. Always get comments on them. They look just as good as a lot of my higher end watches.
Speaking of massively underrated brands- I'm wearing vintage Atlantic Worldmaster, a swiss brand very popular in my country even during communist era, but seems completely forgotten everywhere else. They have their own heritage and remained one of very few independent watch manufacturers today. Why is no one mentioning them? Anyway, great reviev. Cheers TGV.
I just had a look at their Mariner dive watch. Very nice! Thank you for mentioning this overlooked brand!
Awesome! I also have an Atlantic.
Też się nad tym zastanawiam dlaczego Atlantic jest popularny tylko w PL.
Dear TGV, I concur. This video has reinvigorated my yearning to learn about Alpina’s historical achievements and heritage. Thank you for all that you do. It’s always such a pleasure to see your new video premieres. I’m also especially intrigued in learning about Alpina’s military issue pilot and dive watches.
Mmm, indubitably
Where is TGV living nowadays? He's no longer in Queens...
🍀👍🍀😊nice segment.
Love your channel! Out of all the watch channels available, in my opinion, you by far provide the best historical context. Also, the variety of watches you feature combined with their rich history and affordable prices, is amazing. It allows every watch enthusiast, including myself, to have access to so many time pieces. Thanks again 🎉
Thank you for continuing to introduce "new" brands. Thoroughly enjoy learning not only about their history but about their horological significance as well. Always impressed.
So glad you have covered Alpina, I have admired their designs from afar but they are rarely covered by other reviews and hard to find in ADs to get hands on. This particular model has really appeared and I greatly look forward to seeing others on the programme.
Great to see some love for Alpina! I’m a collector of vintage Alpina’s with a big focus on their early chronograph’s. Would be awesome if we could share more of these in your community!
Really love this brand. Incredibly well-made, rugged, tough, but also strangely classy, in its own distinct way. Definitely one of those sleeper brands that should get more praise and attention.
I am glad you introduced Alpina to the channel. I’m looking forward to watch future reviews of their watches, they seem to have pretty interesting pilot watches as well
Always loved the Alpina designs, in the past they've tended to be 42-44mm, hoping for smaller choices in the future
Agreed. They're missing an opportunity with their case sizes.
@@james_chatman agreed ..Even sold my Alpina heritage compressor cream dial..As nice as it was- 42 was just too big..I'll re buy in an instant if they make a 39-40mm version
@@flow2tech I remember when that came out, stunning! Until I saw it on another 7" wrist
@@dustindodge5974 haha I hear ya..I thought it could work..Nope
100%. I had a 44mm Worldtimer that I loved. Just too big for me. Sold it and little in their catalogue seemed sized for me. All the best.
Great video and great content on Alpina. I have a Alpina Avalanche Extreme and the AL 760 Flyback mentioned in this video. These are definitely two of my favorites in my collection. My collection/ interests in watches are really varied. I have a Zenith Elite Chronograph with the El Primero and also the Glycine Airman with 3 independent watch movements (53mm in size). The whole world of watches offers so much to enjoy.
I bought the Alpina Startimer Pilot (AL-525S4S6) last year, their version of a WW2 pilot’s watch. It has a white dial with white hands and white hour markers, but it works wonderfully. I often can’t stop looking at it. It’s extremely solid overall.
Hello TGV, so about this Omega I bought is a 2501.82! What a beautiful watch. Thank you for all these years on the channel my friend. I got so much knowledge about watches from you!
Loving this watch. Thank you for introducing me to it. I’ve glanced at Alpina in the past, but now I need to delve into them more.
Thank you TGV this was a wonderful review as always. I have been following your work for donkeys and you never cease to impress with your production value and details. I have owned an Alpina sea-strong diver for years, it is a stunner in my books ,and most folks don’t have a clue what it is. It’s a big watch but fits me perfectly, I am strongly considering this new piece on the bracelet. Cheers
You never cease to amaze me with all the information you supple in your videos really love blue color of the watch really love that blue on the crown its a win win all around. I had no I idea that this was the og sports watch the more you know you I guess would love to get my had of these babies.
I was vaguely aware of Alpina as a brand, but didn’t have an appreciation for the design and workmanship until I saw the closeup shots in the video. Nicely done, thanks TGV!
I was absolutely delighted to see this brand mentioned on your channel! Before I purchased my Omega Planet Ocean, and more recently my IWC Mark XX, I had an Alpina Startimer Automatic Chronograph. I purchased this watch for myself when I completed my Commercial Pilot Certificate, and even after having watches from these other much better known and higher profile brands, the Alpina hangs right alongside them. I was impressed with Alpina when I first got it, but being able to wear these 5+ times more expensive watches in rotation with it, I just continue to be more impressed... leaving me wondering why the brand doesn't get more mention. So... thank you!
In recent years it looks like Alpina has gone more towards quartz movements, especially in the Startimer (pilot) line. While the accuracy and grab-and-go convenience make more sense for actual pilot operations... we all have phones and the planes have digital clocks in the panel anyway... so give us mechanical movements, watches with soul and character :-)
PS Message me if you want to take a pilot watch for a flight- I'm a flight instructor just a bit upstate from NYC, based out of Orange County airport. Would be cool to see you do an episode where you get one of your watches off the ground... maybe your favored Fortis?
Great to see you covering Alpina👍 - I have owned numerous Alpina watches - they really are first class and I've reviewed some of the best ones, including the Alpiner 4 series and an amazing mono pusher automatic chronograph. I've never properly understood why Alpina are so underrated.
Was thinking the same exact thing about their watches the other day. Glad someone made a video about this
I have acquired 12 Alpina models over my decades collecting and will lend my voice to the choir of enthusiasts singing their praises. My oldest is a 1938-1939 blued hand in a Borger styled case with 26mm case (not uncommon at the time), but among my collection are three more contemporary releases- the 50mm Avalanche Extreme (same movement as this Extreme you highlight), a Rose Gold Nightlife Club at 45mm, and the 300m Seastrong Diver- all with the 525 automatic. Amazing solid and well finished watches!
Their AlpinerX hybrid analog - digital shows the foresight of Peter Stas in creating a robust sports watch that includes a host of MEMS sensors for additional smartwatch features rarely seen.
Top review here. The Alpina rabbit hole is deep indeed, with so many innovations and historical milestones that you could create a dozen more videos and still have plentiful material to spare...
Well done! ❤
Really cool to see you feature Alpina, TGV. I've always loved their designs but they've always been just a little too big size-wise. It's nice to see that the quality is definitely there however!
TGV brings history and context beyond the typical watch review. The GOAT of TH-cam watch reviewers.
So glad you have highlighted Alpina. I've had a soft spot for this brand for some time now. Good to watch your as usual great in depth insight of this brand.
Good work fella.
Great video and content as always. Thank you for highlighting this highly underrated brand and providing the awesome history of Alpina. I own 3 Alpina's, a Alpiner 4 and two Seastrong 300M Divers, in two different color ways. I thoroughly enjoy your Channel.
Love my alpina. It’s been my daily watch for about the last 10 years or so.
Great review as usual TGV... I became aware of the Alpina brand when I'd received one as a Best Man gift 6 years ago. That Alpina pilot chrono has become a favorite in my daily watch rotation ever since. I have several other watches of both higher and lower stature, and my Alpina always wins out as a favorite. I'm currently planning on purchasing the very watch you've just reviewed. 😃
Good review. Coincidentally took my Alpina Alpiner Chronograph out of my watch box earlier and changed out straps to rotate the collection before coming across this video. Glad I got this less known brand represented in my collection.
Love the diversity of watches on your channel 👏
Thank you, I appreciate that. O&U!
Best regards,
TGV
Yes, black, white, brown, yellow!
Wow, I am really impressed. Thank you for the wake up call! 👏🏻 I did not expect Alpina to be that impressive.
Superb…the video I didn’t know I needed until I watched it. An Alpina just has to be on my wish list.
I bought a HSW for my father and the quartz Alpiner for my brother. They both enjoy the watches. Would love to see your review more of their watches. Nice video. Keep up the good work.
TGV, It's been awhile since you've done a video on affordable chronographs, your opinion is truly valued, keep up the great work friend.
it‘s so funny, I discovered Alpina around a week ago and now you’re reviewing the exact watch I was interested in 😃 perfect timing. and great review as usual!
TGV, thank you so much for putting this watch on my radar. Now I have something to new to dream about.
TGV hasn't been in my algorithm. First video I seen in months. GBY TGV ❤️
Been looking into Alpina for years, thanks boss!
OMG, that Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic is stunning!
Man I am in Love with this watch ! Just got myself green dial rubber band,,, Can't wait to have it on my wrist.
Just picked up a Startimer today and it’s awesome! Hope to see more of this brand on your channel!
Bravo TGV...great review. I own an Alpina Seastrong diver, which I received for my 50th birthday. I originally wanted an Omega Seamaster but after a hard look at what I was buying (social hype, strong ad campaigns) I wanted something others didn’t have, and asked for an Alpina! And I am not disappointed in my choice. Along with all the points you made in the video regarding heritage, the value could not be overlooked.
The quality of this piece really is up there! Yes I would like to see a review of their really robust flyback chronograph as well as a review of that really cool chronograph with the Big Date at 6 that appeared towards the end of your excellent video.
Thanks to your review I ended up purchasing an Alpina Startimer Pilot Chrono. Loving it so far!
Another great video. Thank you for highlighting this vastly under-appreciated brand. The history if the brand is impressive. I have always loved the gorgeous designs. But most are simply too large for my 6.5 cm wrist. I own two Alpinas..the Sea Strong Diver Heritage, and a Startimer Pilot. They are two of the smallest watches in the Alpina catalogue. The brand would be a major hit if they offered some sub 40mm models.
Keep up the good work my man. Great stuff
I have the Alpina heritage pilot special edition with the hunter case back. I absolutely love it. Incredible piece. The stelita engine with their custom rotor works fantastic. Truly a pleasure and blessing to o enjoy such a nice piece. It was my first big purchase in watches and I am very happy with it.
I enjoy your videos, thank you for posting
Great watch!!
And by far the best video about it!!!
I have a regulator and absolutely love it. It's build quality is way above the price point, and wears really well on a small 6.5 inch wrist without feeling bulky or gauche. It truly feels like a 5 grand watch
Can i ask you a question. I am considering buying this alpina watch and i have a 6.5 inches wrist too. I tried on this same model 41 mm with the rubber strap. The strap sticks out a bit being new and stiff but i was told by the AD that once the strap breaks down it will fit more flash. Is this the case to your experience?
Can we talk about how friggin good the edit of alpinas advertisement in this video is? Absolute Montage at Banger 0:51 Great Job Dude!
I've been looking at their GMTs. I've *really* been lookin' at thier GMTs. Thanks TGV for another banger.
Excellent video as usual. I own an Alpina Seastrong Compressor Diver. It is bronze PVD coated with two tone inner rotating bezel. Gorgeous watch sporting the SW200-1 and with 300m WR and dual screw down crowns, it punches way above its weight category. Brand new I paid $499 for it. Honestly, the thick quality leather strap the watch comes with costs more than that. It must be the most under appreciated Swiss watch brand of them all!
Fantastic video as always!
I like the hairstyle so much! This new look of yours sir is great!
I never thought of Alpina that I´d like to buy for myself, but I`d might by one for my friend who´s an avid outdoorsman. Thank you for this interesting review
Always well done and honest reviews.
🙌🙌🙌 Thank you James, very much appreciated.
O&U!
Best regards,
TGV
Great content TGV! You're an inspiration.
Brilliant video. Thank you. Alpina definitely on my radar now. The SEASSTRONG GMT looks incredible. Cheers.
Nice summary as always TGV. I very much like some aspects of this sports watch but I'm a bit put off by the chunky feel and strap combo which you highlighted. I do though think it's good value for a distinctive, stylish, go-anywhere piece from a heritage brand.
Looking good, monsieur. Yes, I wish more watch companies would give accuracy specifications for their watches. Salut!
I managed to snag an Alpina Seastrong GMT quartz last year, and the women’s version for my wife as an anniversary gift this year. We are extremely pleased with the quality and performance. It’s on my wrist now 7 days a week. The mens seems to be discontinued now which is a pity. Met all my desired specs, when no other watch has. Longines Hydroconquest came close, but the lug to lug was too long, and comparing them side by side the Alpina seems more rugged. Goes well with a suit or t shirt and jeans. It’s perfection for me. My ten year search for the ideal watch is over.
I also bought an Alpina Seastrong GMT quartz in October and like it very much. For me its more a weekend watch but it fits the bill perfectly. I got it on Amazon for
Similiar situation here. Paid $5XX CAD for mine on Amazon and about the same on Joma Shop during a sale for the Comtesse. Considering the only other good quartz watches I was considering was the Longines and Marathon, I am quite happy. Good quartz divers with 300 m or more are hard to come by.
Great video as always. 👍👍👍👍
Thanks for this informative review.
Loved the intro and the 'tongue in cheek' comment about not talking about Rolex,Rolex,Rolex with a guess what on the wrist?......yup a Rolex hmmm, but all joking aside the vlog was superb as usual with a fabulous watch and worthy brand on the show.
A little while ago I visited a local independent jewelry shop that was an authorised Alpina and Ball dealer. I tried on a beautiful blue ocean plastic Alpina. Was amazing but the only off putting point was the price for a plastic watch. I also tried on a Ball Captain Cook and was so close to buying it was stunning. Love Alpina and Ball both under the radar. Great video sir as always
I have three Aplina watches. My black/grey sunburst and the green dial Alpiners allowed me to flip my Omega AT. While the Aqua Terra was a superior watch (save the torches and pitch forks lol) the feel and look of the Aplina watches were enough for me and I found myself reaching for them more often. Some of that was to keep the Omega in better condition to be sure.
I have a Heritage Diver as well that wears comfortable on the wrist and looks great..
I plan to buy more in the future. Great review!
Making me want more watches. Great channel.
Looks like a very nice watch! Some people put too much emphasis on the movement. It doesn't have to have an "in house" to be a great watch. Great video! 🍻
“If it doesn’t follow Rolex philosophy then it sucks…” - average Instagram flexor
Yes its a bit of a overrated topic 👍 I do enjoy a in house movement but the term gets thrown around way too much. I enjoy Selita and Valjoux movement's all the same and servicing is easy to ,so that's always good and I own 2 Rolex,Seiko prospex SPB153 and Breitling Super ocean with the Calibre 17 that's eta based, That runs amazing with a dead silent rotor and a beautiful sweep seconds
@@lonewolfemcquade8133 I certainly agree 👍🏻
I really like that watch! Especially the strap. Keep up the great work.
Great Editing job especially the intro!
Alpina are a massively underrated brand who do some quality stuff for the price category they sit in. Good to see them on here as they don't seem to get the attention they deserve. I have a Seastrong Heritage (the compressor style) in my collection and while it has a few quirks love its vintage looks and build quality. That Extreme looks very nice indeed.
I have two Alpina's. A startimer classic three hander and a startimer classic chronograph. Great watches! Both run perfectly, i remember reading some years ago that they regulate them in five positions.
Been a fan of this brand for some years now, owning several Seastrongs. Love them.
Good morning TGV,
Thank you for the review of the Alpina watch.
I must confess that in the past I always passed over Alpina as a brand and didn't really bother with their watches.
In fact, I was not aware of the importance of Alpina until now.
That's why it's all the nicer that you not only discussed the watch as such, but that you also went back to the history of the manufacturer itself.
Many greetings!
Thank you Heiko, 🥂😎
Fear not, I did the same thing when it came to this brand, but as with anything in life, the more you find out, the more interesting things become. Thank you for the feedback, so glad to hear you found it interesting too.
Onwards and upwards my friend!
Best regards,
TGV
Startimer pilot heritage MK-III, 2019. The munites 5,10,15,20 etc. On dial instead of hours. Looks amazing!
Great video TVG. And what a lovely watch. Details look very well manufactured and finished. I would like just a bit more time between winding but then if you are wearing this as a daily, it does'nt matter. Thanks for the video anyway.
This is a nice watch and also a nice review of it. It would be nice to see your take on some of their pilot wathces too. Keep up the good work. Cheers!
Great review TGV and nice set up you have there.
Great show. Digging the fluffy hair! 👍
I really like your content. Thanks :)
Cool dial! On a separate note - I got the Dan Henry 1945 watching your review ..masterpiece !
Love my Alpina watches. Such great quality and style! My favorite of them is the Alpiner 4 Race for Water. Such a sleek looking watch that just feels great on the wrist and impressive quality you can feel in your hands.
Amen! I own two, also had and sold two! My favourite brand
Dashing video chap. Cheers to you and alpina
Thank you! 🙏🙏🙏
Best regard,
TGV
I love the AP look and the Naughtilous, but like most I can't afford one but seeing this and the fact it's in my price range it's definitely a contender for the watch I'm going to but this year. I like rubber straps but would love to see a bracelet available for this. Great review thanks. 👍
I have two Alpina Watches in my collection, most recently got the Alpiner Extreme which is simply fabulous. Highly recommend this brand and this watch specifically
Great video as always TGV! What better way to end the day, right? Cheers
Great review. 👍
I’ve got an Alpina Startimer GMT and I love the watch! Great cushion case!
Well, that's s brand that hasn't gotten much exposure...I didn't even know it existed! Fascinating!
Great horilogical context and video. Just grabbed one in the blue.
Great video love the content.
Nice looking watch. Hope you feature more Alpina watches.
I picked up the Startimer Pilot Heritage Mono-pusher in blue with the La Joux-Perret movement. The history behind LJP is a fascinating tale of intrigue and skullduggery and one of a kind in horology! Would make a great installment on your channel!
can't wait to hear your thoughts on the Accutron Astronaut
I’m at a dinner or I’d watch this right now but can’t wait to watch this when I get home. I’ve been curious about alpina as a brand so this will be a great video. I think ima pull the trigger on the Willard I’ve watched you’re video about 10 times on it haha. Anyways have a good evening TGV