I love the Alpinist models, but honestly, am not a fan of the more recent versions (had one, dumped it). With all the hubbub about the recently released "all blue" version my dislike is renewed (apologies new-Alpinist fans). In part, it's because the Alpinist from the last few years seem to share none of the design language from the first 3+ version of the Alpinist. They may be awesome, but to me, they are not in the same style even as the original version of the Alpinist. As evidence, I submit pics from this (great) article on the history of the model (
https://thespringbar.com/blogs/guide...llectors-guide)
The original (Gen 1):
Gen 2a:
Gen 2b:
Gen 3:
And then the new ones, which (to me) share very little with the origins of the model. The new models have 1)rotating bezels, 2) date complication, 3) two crowns (for the inner bezel) and 4) numerals on the dial. Features that for the most part, none of the earlier Alpinists had (there was a 24 hour version of the 2nd Gen, but even then the numerals were small and insert on the dial, not on the perimeter:
Don't mistake, I'm not saying the recent (and newly released) Alpinist aren't cool watches, but the rotating bezel, the 'Mercedes' hands, and a variety of other things just seem to share no design language with the origins of the model, and therefore seem like a 'new' model that has rented the Alpinist name, rather than owned it.
Flame retardant underwear on, so let me know your thoughts.