The Alpina Startimer Pilot’s Chronograph Black Star

The Black Star from the Startimer Pilot’s Chronograph collection is brand new for 2014 from Swiss watchmaker Alpina. This all-black model comes as a welcome addition to the polished and brushed Startimer line. Without a doubt, Alpina designed this collection to be the quintessential aviation accessory. From the early `1900’s to the middle of the century, Alpina was one of the principle suppliers to the Continental forces. Pilots of that era thoroughly enjoyed the clean, high contrast dials that Alpina watches were equipped with. Not only that but Alpina watches also featured an antimagnetic case, which was important in early aviation.

This Alpina model, the Startimer Black Star, gets its all-black coloration from the PVD coated stainless steel. PVD or Phosphor Vapor Deposition is a popular technique used in contemporary watchmaking. This process not only gives the watch its distinctive hue but also serves to strengthen the stainless steel. The case measures in at 44mm, and it features a transparent case back where the wearer can admire the Swiss made automatic movement.

The thin bezel houses securely another sapphire crystal chosen for its scratch resistant properties. The sapphire crystal is also coated with glare proofing for the easy legibility of this instrument above the cloud cover. This Startimer Chronograph Black Star is fitted with a black leather strap with white contrast saddle stitching. The black case features a prominent main crown and pushers designed to be operated while wearing gloves. This model carries a water resistance of 100 meters or 10 ATM.

The black dial used by Alpina on this model features a “Bicompax” dial layout, which is perfectly symmetrical and offers the best in readability for an at-a-glance readout. At the 9 position is the true seconds counter, while the totalizer at the 3 position offers the chronograph minutes reading. The hour markers are raised. This not only is aesthetically pleasing but adds to the overall legibility of the dial. The hands are generously coated with lume. This timepiece is powered by the AL-850 self-winding chronograph caliber.