Alpina has unveiled two limited-edition watches celebrating the 13th Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe, combining Swiss watchmaking, maritime heritage and innovative technology.

Alpina is marking its partnership with the 13th Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe with two exclusive timepieces designed around the themes of endurance, adventure and precision. The Swiss watchmaker, which will serve as the official timekeeper of the 2026 race, has introduced the Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic “Route du Rhum” and the Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre “Route du Rhum”.

The two watches pay tribute to one of the world’s most demanding solo transatlantic sailing competitions, while also highlighting Alpina’s long-standing connection with outdoor exploration and extreme environments.

Alpina Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic “Route du Rhum”

The first limited edition is based on Alpina’s Seastrong collection, whose diving-watch heritage dates back to the 1960s. The Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic “Route du Rhum” will be limited to 313 individually numbered pieces, a reference to the race’s 13th edition.

The watch features a distinctive turquoise dial, marking the first time the colour has been used on this model. The dial incorporates an engraving depicting Atlantic Ocean currents, highlighting the challenging maritime route competitors must navigate between France and Guadeloupe.

Additional nautical details reinforce the connection with the race. The bidirectional bezel features the four cardinal points alongside a complete 360-degree compass scale, while the caseback carries an engraving of the route from Saint-Malo to Pointe-à-Pitre. The date display also features a red number “13” as a tribute to the 13th edition of the race.

Measuring 39 x 40.5 mm, the stainless-steel case houses an automatic movement and is engineered for demanding conditions. A carbon insert protects the bezel, while water resistance extends to 300 metres. The screw-down crown incorporates a rubber grip for additional practicality.

Completing the design is a turquoise-and-black rubber strap with a textured Cordura-effect finish, echoing the colours of the ocean, dial and bezel.

Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre “Route du Rhum”

The second model approaches endurance from a different perspective. The Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre “Route du Rhum” uses solar technology to harness energy from both natural and artificial light.

Limited to 513 pieces, the watch combines Alpina’s signature cushion-shaped case with turquoise detailing, a carbon bezel insert and a rubber strap. Like its Seastrong counterpart, the caseback features an engraving of the Route du Rhum course.

The watch measures 37.5 mm and is water-resistant to 10 ATM, making it a compact and versatile option for everyday wear.

According to Alpina, its solar technology can provide an exceptionally long power reserve. The watch can continue operating for up to 10 months in complete darkness, while exposure to light allows it to restart rapidly. Just one minute of light exposure can provide enough energy for approximately a full day of operation.

The technology was developed jointly by La Joux-Perret and Alpina, combining Swiss watchmaking expertise with solar-powered functionality.

Route du Rhum 2026: A Test of Endurance

The 13th Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe is scheduled to begin on 1 November 2026, when competitors will depart from Saint-Malo in France and head towards Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe.

Competitors will attempt to challenge the existing race record of 6 days, 19 hours, 47 minutes and 25 seconds. Among the participating sailors is French skipper Éric Péron, who is supported by Alpina.

Through its role as official timekeeper and its partnership with Péron, Alpina is strengthening its connection with sailing and high-performance outdoor pursuits.

The two Route du Rhum limited editions reflect this philosophy in different ways: the Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic focuses on rugged maritime performance, while the Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre highlights endurance through solar technology.

With individually numbered production runs, distinctive race-inspired detailing and a combination of robust materials and Swiss engineering, both watches are positioned as collector-focused pieces created to commemorate the 2026 edition of the legendary transatlantic race.