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.
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.
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.
