At First Class Watches, we’re proud to offer an incredible collection of over 100 watch brands — a true treasure trove for any watch lover! Of course, with so many options, it can be tricky to know where to begin. That’s why we’re launching the A-Z of Watch Brands series; your go-to guide for exploring the world of watches, one letter at a time. In each edition, we’ll share a little about the brand’s story and highlight one of our favourite timepieces, giving you a taste of the variety we have to offer. Naturally, we’re starting at the beginning: A is for Adidas, Alpina, and more. Let’s dive in!
The A-Z of Watch Brands: A is for Alpina, Adidas and More
Alpina
Alpina Watches was founded in 1883 by Gottlieb Hauser in Switzerland as a cooperative of watchmakers dedicated to producing high-quality timepieces and movements. The brand quickly gained recognition for its precision and innovation; becoming known for creating robust sports watches suited for extreme conditions. In 1938, Alpina introduced its iconic “Alpina 4” concept, defining the modern sports watch through four key features: anti-magnetic, anti-shock, water-resistant, and stainless steel construction. Despite challenges during the quartz crisis, Alpina made its return in the early 2000s. Today, the brand remains a respected Swiss manufacturer, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design and technology. This legacy of precision and adventure lives on in one of our favourite Alpina timepieces, the Alpiner Extreme Automatic, which perfectly captures the brand’s enduring spirit.
Alpina Alpiner Extreme Automatic
The Alpina Alpiner Extreme Automatic is a bold expression of Swiss engineering and adventure-ready design. Its distinctive 39mm cushion-shaped stainless steel case, textured blue dial, and integrated bracelet create a modern yet timeless aesthetic. Powered by Alpina’s reliable AL-525 automatic movement, it offers precise timekeeping with a 38-hour power reserve. The watch’s robust construction, as well as its 200-meter water resistance, anti-shock protection, and screw-down crown, ensures durability in any environment. Blending refined craftsmanship with rugged performance, the Alpiner Extreme stands as a true reflection of Alpina’s heritage; it’s a piece perfect for those who push boundaries.
Adidas
Adidas entered the watch market in the 1980s, bringing its sporty, fashion-forward identity into the world of timepieces. Designed for active lifestyles, Adidas watches combine athletic functionality with modern style. They also often feature bold colours, durable materials, and minimalist design inspired by streetwear culture. Over the years, the brand has continued to evolve its watch collections to reflect both performance and everyday versatility. This fusion of sport and style is perfectly captured in our favourite Adidas timepiece, the Retro Wave Three, which showcases the brand’s commitment to both modern design and functionality.
Adidas Retro Wave Three Alarm Chronograph
The Adidas Retro Wave Three brings together vintage-inspired design and practical features. The watch displays a striking gold dial with a digital sub-dial at 12 o’clock, black baton indices and matching black hour, minute, and second hands for a bold, easy-to-read look. A 37mm gold PVD stainless steel case frames the dial, while a gold PVD stainless steel expanding bracelet secures it on the wrist; adding both comfort and sophistication. Powered by a reliable quartz movement, this model offers useful functions such as a countdown timer, chronograph, and multiple alarms. With water resistance up to 50 metres, the Retro Wave Three combines everyday durability with a timeless, sporty aesthetic; it perfectly embodies Adidas’s legacy of innovation and style.
Alsta
Alsta was founded in the 1960s and quickly gained a reputation for creating robust, stylish timepieces for professionals and adventurers alike. Known for their precision engineering and distinctive designs, Alsta watches became particularly popular among divers and outdoor enthusiasts. The brand achieved cult status when one of its models famously appeared in the 1975 film Jaws, worn by Richard Dreyfuss’s character, Matt Hooper. After disappearing during the quartz crisis, Alsta made its return in 2014, blending its vintage heritage with modern craftsmanship. This revival of classic design and rugged performance is perfectly represented by our favourite Alsta timepiece, the Nautoscaph IV.
Alsta Nautoscaph IV Automatic
The Alsta Nautoscaph IV is a modern reimagining of the iconic diver’s watch that helped define the brand’s legacy. Designed to deliver both durability and elegance, it features a 40mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The matte black dial, accented by luminous indices and hands, ensures readability in all conditions, while the automatic movement provides reliable performance. Water-resistant up to 300 metres, the Nautoscaph IV is built to withstand the challenges of the deep while maintaining a refined vintage aesthetic. Balancing timeless design with contemporary engineering, this watch stands as a true tribute to Alsta’s heritage of exploration and resilience.
Armani Exchange
Armani Exchange was launched in 1991 as a youthful, urban extension of the Giorgio Armani brand; created to capture the energy and style of contemporary city life. Known for its bold, fashion-forward designs, Armani Exchange quickly expanded beyond clothing to include accessories and timepieces that embody modern sophistication with a sporty edge. The brand’s watches blend Italian design flair with reliable craftsmanship, appealing to trendsetters who value both style and substance. This perfect balance of fashion and function is exemplified by our favourite Armani Exchange timepiece, or gift set to be exact, which reflects the brand’s sleek, modern aesthetic and attention to detail.
Armani Exchange Men’s Watch and Interchangeable Bezel Set
The Armani Exchange Men’s Watch and Bezel Set is the ultimate expression of versatility and contemporary design. This striking model features a 42mm stainless steel case paired with an interchangeable bezel set. In black, red and blue, the bezels allow you to customise the look to suit any occasion or outfit. Its sleek silver dial, with white hour markers and hands, exudes understated sophistication, while the black silicone strap ensures both comfort and resilience. Powered by a precise quartz movement, this set offers reliable timekeeping wrapped in Armani Exchange’s signature modern style. Perfect for those who appreciate both practicality and fashion, this watch captures the brand’s commitment to effortless elegance and adaptability.
From Alpina’s adventurous spirit to Armani Exchange’s contemporary flair, each of these brands tells a unique story through its timepieces. Whether driven by performance, history, or fashion, every watch featured here reflects the craftsmanship and character that make it truly special. At the heart of it all, these collections remind us that a watch is more than just a way to tell time; it’s a statement of style, identity, and passion.
What did you think of our first post in the A–Z of Watch Brands series? Which ‘A’ brand stands out as your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
