Alpina 6: The Waterproof tank of 1939

Feb 28

Written By Bas

Alpina 6 Cal 490: The Waterproof tank of 1939 — *Alpina 6*

The Alpina 6, a waterproof tank model that should have been the big innovation by Alpina in 1939. The watch that had all of the specifications you wanted from a wristwatch. A waterproof stainless steel case with the highly appraised Alpina 490 and it’s anti-vibration movement, shock resisting and anti-magnetic specification. The six reasons to choose an Alpina 6.

Calibre 490 by Alpina

In 1938 Alpina released its caliber 490. A workhorse movement incorporating high tech features at the time. A dust proof patented crown, anti-magnetic and vibration- and shock resisting.

The movement was seen in various models by Alpina in an era where “square/rectangular” watch cases were still the general norm in watch design.

These years leading up to the 1940’s where also especially focused on making the watch withstand outside factors that could influence the functioning of the movement. With one big focus point: Waterproofing.

Alpina 490 advertisement in 1939 — *Alpina advertisement in 1938*

Alpina 6: The Waterproof model of 1939

The final step for Alpina in making the caliber 490 a true workhorse would be to design a waterproof case. And in 1939 they released their own patented model: Alpina 6.

Waterproof
Big rectangular movement (Cal. 490, movement/part sizes give a general indication of how well the timing is)
Anti-Vibrations
Shock resisting
Anti-magnetic
Stainless Steel

Alpina 6 advertisement in 1939 — *Alpina advertisement in 1939*

Rarity

So with Alpina producing a watch with all the desired features and advertising it in big watch magazines would mean it would be a watch that could easily be found 85 years later right? No.

This watch is produced in very limited numbers. With the start of 1940 the general consensus towards wrist watches turned to round models. Easier to keep waterproof, round movements etc. so more logical to produce and also adopted by the buyers. Leaving this watch relevant for one to three years.

This case has the serial number 105185 and is also engraved on the back with the date December 22nd 1939. A serial logical for this date. There are two other Alpina 6’s found but no insights on serial numbers.

Case design

Although this watch shows signs of heavy use it still has its original definitions. The shape is what is captivating the most. It is a normal tank watch but on steroids. Every angle is fat and one of the heaviest steel watches I ever felt. The case size is 25mm x 38mm(including lugs) with a 20mm lug size.

The most important feature is the 2.5 atmospheres (10M) water resistance. This is achieved by pressing down the movement within two rubber gaskets. The back plate needs a 45 degree twist to press it upon the back gasket thus sealing the watch. A patented design by Alpina.