To be completely frank with you, vintage Alpina is a territory I've never extensively explored. But that’s the thing with vintage, right? There is always more to learn, and this example of an Alpina is one of those moments for me. While I've always acknowledged Alpina as a somewhat underrated source for compelling vintage watches, the existence of an example like this has been quite a revelation for me, to say the least.
Featuring a massively-sized 40mm nickel chrome case, a substantial case dimension for its era, it boasts a hunter-style case back, providing the user a glimpse into the intricate manual-winding, modified
Minerva 17-29 calibre powering it from within.
For me, the true standout feature of this vintage example is the usage of Breguet-style numerals on the dial, a design element which I find quite intriguing as it pairs wonderfully well with its intricate multi-scale chronograph layout, creating a visually compelling combination.
All I can say is that I personally quite like the way it looks and sits on my wrist. It exudes a certain charm reminiscent of a wristwatch converted from a pocket watch, and that onion crown? Absolutely, I adore it.
While acknowledging that this type of watch might not appeal to everyone, but for enthusiasts who appreciate an oversized vintage watch with a hunter-style case back and perhaps, a hint of patina, this might be the piece to look at.