The 1970s styling of the integrated bracelet stainless steel sports watch is in demand again. The often forgotten Chopard came up with their own design in the late 70s to ensure they are not left behind style wise on this trend. The integrated bracelet steel sports watch is highly desired with demand outstripping supply pushing prices to unattainable levels.

The Alpine Eagle XL Chronograph is no exception, Chopard has some outstanding designs and the Alpine Eagle and Alpine Eagle XL Chronograph meet the steel sports watch criteria for industrial styling. what I would consider part of the second tier of luxury integrated bracelet steel sports watch. The screws in the bezel are grouped in double sets at the major indices, this is a slight style modification homage to the base design principles of the Royal Oak. But this is hardly innovative, this is by no means a new design, just a different version of an established design principle.

The date window between the sub-dials is something I find interesting, I am no fan of the date windows at all, mostly as a) I can’t read it anymore, b) because I think it throws the symmetry of the dial out, and c) it clutters up the dial. But, I appreciate that the vast majority of people want a date on their dial so I concede that I am in the minority with these views.

So, the question I ask myself is, would I purchase a Alpine Eagle or an Alpine Eagle XL Chronograph? Well, it depends. The steel sports watch with integrated bracelet is in high demand, even at this price range I sèek value for money, even if it is comparative value. For me, does Chopard offer value for money over its competitors and does the style stand up? Yeah, I think it does.