Our hands-on review of the Alpina Alpiner Extreme Automatic in Grade 2 titanium, ref. AL-525S3AE1B. Exclusive pictures and full details. Price €2,495
In 2024, Alpina introduced new stainless steel additions to its Alpiner collection, featuring a more compact and versatile cushion-shaped case measuring 39 mm (you can read our review here).
At Watches and Wonders Geneva this year, the Swiss brand took things a step further with the debut of its first-ever all-titanium watch: the Alpiner Extreme Automatic in Grade 2 titanium (ref. AL-525S3AE1B).
Choosing the Alpiner line for this milestone made perfect sense. With its rugged, sport-oriented character, the collection is well suited to the functional advantages of titanium, a material that is about half the weight of steel, naturally hypoallergenic, and highly resistant to corrosion. These are ideal attributes for a watch built to perform in demanding outdoor conditions.
We recently had the opportunity to wear and test this new model, and we are pleased to share our images and impressions with our readers.
The Alpiner Extreme Automatic in Grade 2 titanium is presented in a compact case measuring 39 × 40.5 mm, with a thickness of 11.50 mm.
Its angular silhouette is enhanced by a combination of satin-brushed and polished surfaces that add visual depth and structure.
The round bezel sits on the cushion-shaped case middle and is secured by six screws with heads shaped like the Alpina triangle, a subtle yet distinctive brand signature.
The large screw-down crown features a textured rubber grip for improved handling and is also adorned with the Alpina triangle.
On the right side, crown guards protect the crown, while a prominent ear on the left side of the case provides visual balance and reinforces the strong, functional character of the design.
Water resistance is rated at 20 ATM, equivalent to approximately 200 metres / 660 feet.
The integrated H-shaped bracelet is crafted from Grade 2 titanium, with brushed surfaces and polished edges. It fastens with a folding clasp equipped with safety push buttons.
The finishing is precise throughout, conveying a clear sense of care and quality.
Although visually similar to the stainless steel version, this titanium model reveals a softer surface sheen on close inspection. And, of course, its lighter weight is instantly noticeable on the wrist, offering enhanced comfort during wear.
The reduced case size significantly enhances the watch's versatility, making it an excellent daily companion that feels well suited to a wide range of situations.
Its proportions offer a comfortable fit on average wrists. For reference, the wrist shown in our photos measures 17.8 cm / 7 inches.
The anti-reflective flat sapphire crystal protects a dial featuring a subtly raised triangle pattern, symbolising the alpine summits that inspire the brand’s name.
An outer flange with a minute track surrounds the dial, allowing precise time reading.
The dial’s brilliant light grey hue, combined with a satin finish, harmonises perfectly with the titanium case, creating a cohesive and natural overall design.
Applied indexes and large hour and minute hands are filled with white luminescent material that emits a green glow in low-light conditions.
Adding a lively sporty touch, the seconds hand features a red triangle counterweight, echoing the brand’s logo.
The date display at 3 o’clock completes the dial indications.
The alpine summits motif returns on the caseback, which is also secured with six screws.
Behind it, the self-winding AL-525 calibre (based on the Sellita SW200-1) beats steadily at 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) ensuring reliability and accuracy.
Also powering the 41 mm version of the Alpiner Extreme Automatic, this robust movement offers 38 hours of power reserve.
With its first all-titanium model, Alpina has successfully combined the Alpiner Extreme Automatic’s robust outdoor spirit with the lightweight comfort and durability of Grade 2 titanium. The refined design, compact case size, and reliable movement make this watch a versatile choice for daily wear, whether in urban settings or on adventurous excursions.
Priced at €2,495 / US$2,695, the Alpiner Extreme Automatic Titanium reference AL-525S3AE1B offers a balance of style, functionality, and comfort at a competitive level.
It is a strong addition to the Alpina collection that can attract both seasoned fans and newcomers. alpinawatches.com
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