Interview with Peter Stas, CEO of Alpina Watch International.

Swiss Watch Manufacturer Alpina Genève produces an exciting automatic chronograph with regatta start function based on an in-house modified Sellita SW-500. Currently, Alpina is the only watchmaker offering such an easy to read automatic regatta caliber. The watch has a RRP of 2350 Euro.

To support the Alpina Sailing Collection, Alpina sponsors the Extreme Sailing Series Team Niceforyou, skippered by Alberto Barovier (2010 America’s Cup on board the trimaran BMW Oracle Racing) and the Alpina Swan 82 participating in various yacht regattas in the Mediterranean in 2012.

Why is Alpina involved in sailing regattas?

“We support the Alpina Sailing Collection by our sponsorships of various regattas. The star product of the Alpina Sailing Collection is an automatic chronograph with regatta start function. It has an unique and easy to read regatta display. In the past, there was a Valjoux caliber offering the same layout. ETA discontinued it and we decided to develop a module in-house for this regatta function. Alpina is now the only watch manufacturer offering such an automatic regatta caliber. To promote this watch, we have started limited advertising. The most important promotion however is to bring this watch to sailing enthusiasts during regattas.”

You are on the helm of the Alpina Swan, what is driving you?

“I have sailed since I was a child in regattas, as a sailing instructor and for leisure. Starting in small boats in The Netherlands, later I sailed larger boats in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Hong Kong. Being on the water is a passion and participating in regattas is extremely exciting. It demands ultimate concentration. The teamwork during a regatta is a learning experience that doubles as management training. During a regatta, there is no margin for error, lives are at stake. The team on a boat must run as clockwork. ”

What are plans for 2012?

“The Alpina Swan has recently raced in the Palmavella and will race in the Loro Piani and Giraglia regattas in June. Later this year, the Alpina Swan will race in the Voiles des St. Tropez and the Middle Sea Race regattas.”