Alsta is a brand born from the spirit of adventure, with a rich history of crafting rugged yet elegant timepieces that have captured the imaginations of explorers, divers, and thrill-seekers for generations. First established in 1946, Alsta became renowned in the mid-20th century for its finely engineered sports and dive watches, designed to withstand the rigors of the most demanding environments while retaining a sense of sophistication.
Early Alsta "Surf n Ski" Sports Watch
In the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s, Alsta’s chronographs and steel sports watches were sought after for their reliability, precision, and timeless design, marking the brand as a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and style-conscious professionals alike. One of its most famous models, the Nautoscaph Superautomatic, gained a legendary status after being worn by Richard Dreyfuss’s character in the 1975 blockbuster Jaws, cementing Alsta’s place in the annals of watchmaking history.
Richard Dreyfuss wearing the original Superautomatic in 'Jaws' (1975)
After a period of dormancy, Alsta was revived in 2017 to bring its iconic designs back to life. Now, with renewed energy and a commitment to maintaining its heritage, the brand continues to produce watches that blend vintage charm with modern technology. Whether it’s the Superautomatic, the Nautoscaph, or the motorcycle-inspired Motoscaphe, each timepiece is crafted with the same dedication to durability, precision, and style that made Alsta a beloved name decades ago.
The revived Alsta Superautomatic (2020)
Alsta’s watches are more than just tools—they are companions for those who embrace the adventurous life. Manufactured and assembled in Switzerland and the UK, and powered by precise, reliable movements, Alsta timepieces are designed to accompany their wearers through the challenges of everyday life, from the boardroom to the ocean floor, and everywhere in between.
The Alsta Nautoscaph
In today’s world, Alsta remains committed to creating watches that stand the test of time, with designs that appeal to both vintage watch enthusiasts and modern adventurers. Owning an Alsta is not just about wearing a watch; it’s about embracing a lifestyle filled with purpose, sophistication, and a spirit of exploration.
Introducing the Alsta Motoscaphe 120: A Timepiece for the Adventurous Spirit
The Alsta Motoscaphe 120 is not just a watch; it's a tribute to the free-spirited motorcyclist, designed for those who seek adventure on two wheels. Alsta, with a legacy that dates back to producing elegant and rugged sports watches, introduces the Motoscaphe as part of its modern revival, staying true to its heritage while adding contemporary features for the discerning rider.
Launched in 2021, the Motoscaphe 120 is the first entirely new model from the revitalised Alsta brand taken over by Glasgow-Based Angus MacFadyen, Founder and CEO of Alsta Watch. This timepiece blends elegance and toughness, making it the perfect companion for motorcyclists who appreciate style and substance. Crafted with a bi-directional ratchet bezel, the Motoscaphe allows for easy adjustments, even with gloves on, ensuring precision on the move. Its 12-hour GMT timing scale is essential for tracking time across zones or calculating elapsed hours during long rides.
One of its standout features is the left-sided "destro" crown, preventing discomfort when the watch is worn on the left wrist. Thoughtfully shock-resistant and water-resistant, the Motoscaphe 120 is built to withstand the harshest of conditions—whether you're navigating through rainstorms or cruising along windy roads.
Adding a playful yet meaningful touch, the Motoscaphe's dial reinterprets the typical dive watch depth rating into an equation for speed. "176ft = 53.6m/sec," evoking the exhilarating rush of hitting 120mph on a motorcycle—a speed that many say brings on a near-meditative state where space warps and time folds.
With every detail engineered for the rider in mind, this Swiss and UK-manufactured timepiece is powered by a reliable Seiko NH35A automatic movement. The Motoscaphe 120 embodies Alsta’s commitment to purposeful, sophisticated, and authentic design, providing motorcyclists a watch that mirrors their passion for exploration.
Whether you’re seeking an adventure across continents or a swift city ride, the Alsta Motoscaphe 120 is the watch to accompany you on every journey.
Click here to learn more about Alsta and their timeless watch collection.