Alpina: Official Timekeeper of the ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE - Brest 2024

Alpina, the renowned watch brand, is proud to have been the Official Timekeeper of this year's ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE - Brest. As a privileged partner of this exceptional event dedicated to sailing and daring, Alpina has given its unwavering support to a competition that embodies the spirit of adventure and excellence.

On Wednesday 13 March at 14:44, yachtsman Éric Péron crossed the finish line of the ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE - Brest solo round-the-world race, crowning 66 days, 1 hour, 14 minutes, 27 seconds and 29,107.65 nautical miles of courage and resilience on the high seas. This remarkable feat is testament to the unwavering determination of an intrepid Alpina ambassador, braving all the elements with indomitable passion.

Setting sail from Brest (France) on 7th January aboard his Ultim trimaran, Éric Péron has charted his course across the oceans, defying wind and tide. His voyage has been punctuated by challenges and memorable moments, marked by some key milestones:

• 17th January: Crossing of the equator, marking her entry into the southern hemisphere.

• 26th January: Major damage to the boat, requiring rapid repairs by the entire shore team. Despite a damaged starboard rudder, Éric had to go to Cape Town, South Africa, for a 24-hour technical stop, in accordance with the race rules.

• 5th February: Deviation of trajectory to avoid a tropical depression, juggling with unstable weather conditions.

• 9th February: Successful rounding of Cape Leeuwin, one of the three formidable capes on her course.

• 18th February: Reaching Point Nemo, the furthest point from any land on our planet, lost in the heart of the Pacific.

• 21th February: The ultimate consecration, rounding Cape Horn, that mythical point that symbolises victory over the elements. Éric Péron breaks the record for crossing the Pacific Ocean in 9 days, 15 hours, 50 minutes and 10 seconds.

The yachtsman encountered difficult weather conditions in the South Atlantic, before enjoying a good pace in the Northern section, finally returning to the port of Brest on  March 13th.

As Official Timekeeper of the ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE - Brest, Alpina had the privilege of measuring the time and witnessing the impressive performances of the skippers who took part in this epic competition. The event was an opportunity for Alpina to demonstrate its commitment to the world of sailing and its support for those who push the boundaries of exploration and adventure at sea.

TWO LIMITED EDITIONS DEDICATED TO THE RACE

Alpina unveils two limited editions dedicated to racing, combining the rigour and robustness of Alpina's Extreme line with the DNA of the Seastrong collection. These limited editions represent the perfect marriage of the two worlds, creating unique and exclusive collectors' items, available in only 100 and 150 pieces.

These exceptional watches are presented in a 41mm steel case, available with a steel or rubber strap, with a silver dial evoking the foam of the sea, or a blue dial recalling the tumultuous waves. Every detail has been carefully thought out to capture the spirit of the race and the very essence of adventure at sea.

The case of these limited editions is certified water-resistant to 200 meters thanks to a solid, screw-down caseback engraved with the name of the race. This feature not only guarantees the robustness of these watches, but also serves as a reminder of Alpina's commitment to excellence and performance in the most extreme conditions at sea.

Alpina's racing limited editions are more than just watches; they are testaments to the adventure, passion and determination of sailors who push the boundaries of exploration at sea. By combining cutting-edge technology with elegant and functional design, Alpina offers sailing and watch enthusiasts unique timepieces that capture the spirit of the ocean and of competition.

 

TOGETHER FROM NEAR AND FAR

Alpina Watches is also celebrating the success of the ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE on Virtual Regatta, the official game that has captivated more than 90'000 players. As a partner, Alpina enriched the event with a touch of excellence and precision, rewarding the winners with exceptional watches and marking its presence on all three capes. This collaboration strengthened the link between sailing enthusiasts and Alpina's values of adventure and performance.

Beyond competition, Alpina and Éric Péron share a common commitment to preserving the marine environment. As lovers of the sea, they recognise the vital importance of protecting our oceans and coastlines. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in Alpina's sustainability initiatives and its support for marine conservation projects.

 

Finally, Alpina and skipper Eric Péron are joining forces to participate in the next Route du Rhum event. Created in 1978 by Michel Etevenon, the Route du Rhum-Destination Guadeloupe is the queen of solo transatlantic races. For 44 years, it has linked Saint-Malo in Brittany to Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe, bringing together the biggest names in ocean sailing on the same starting line.
In conclusion, the ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE - Brest was an exceptional opportunity for Alpina to celebrate adventure, excellence and passion for sailing. As Official Timekeeper of this iconic event, Alpina reinforced its commitment to the world of sailing and honoured the skippers who push the boundaries of exploration at sea.