In Saint-Malo, excitement is building as the Route du Rhum 2026 draws near. The race village has opened its doors and the sailors are putting the finishing touches to their preparations. On Sunday, November 1, 2026, at precisely 1:02 pm, the 13th edition of this legendary solo transatlantic race will get under way. And this year, it is Alpina that will be responsible for keeping time.
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Every second counts
From Saint-Malo to Pointe-à-Pitre, the skippers will have to contend with the winds, the currents and the whims of the Atlantic. It is an adventure in which endurance, strategy and precision often make the difference. For Alpina, Official Timekeeper of the Route du Rhum 2026, the race is a perfect stage. Since 1883, the Swiss watch manufacture has championed the values of adventure, robustness and pushing one’s limits.
This commitment also has a human face in Éric Péron, the French sailor and brand ambassador, who is competing in the Vintage Multi class aboard French Touch Oceans Club.
Two watches to accompany the adventure
To celebrate this 13th edition, Alpina has designed two timepieces with very distinct personalities.
The Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic x Route du Rhum, limited to 313 pieces, focuses on mechanics, with a turquoise dial inspired by Atlantic currents and water resistance to 300 meters. Its price: €2,195.
The Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre x Route du Rhum, produced in 513 pieces, puts autonomy first with its solar movement, able to run for up to ten months without light. It is priced at €1,095.
Two interpretations of the spirit of adventure, already presented in detail in Passion Horlogère.
Next stop, Guadeloupe!
Preparations are now drawing to a close. In a few days, the moorings will be cast off and the Atlantic will once again hold sway. The sea will decide the winner. Alpina’s mission will be to measure the feat. See you on November 1 at 1:02 pm for the first seconds of a new adventure!
Frequently asked questions
The 13th edition of the Route du Rhum Destination Guadeloupe sets off from Saint-Malo on Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 1:02 pm. The skippers cross the Atlantic single-handed to Pointe-à-Pitre.
Alpina is the Official Timekeeper of the race. The Swiss manufacture, founded in 1883, is in charge of timing the sailors between Saint-Malo and Guadeloupe.
Éric Péron, French sailor and brand ambassador, is competing in the Vintage Multi class aboard French Touch Oceans Club.
Two limited editions: the Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic x Route du Rhum, a mechanical dive watch with a turquoise dial and water resistance to 300 meters, and the Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre x Route du Rhum, with a solar movement able to run for up to ten months without light.
The Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic x Route du Rhum, limited to 313 pieces, is priced at €2,195. The Alpiner Extreme Solarmetre x Route du Rhum, produced in 513 pieces, costs €1,095.
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