Zenith

Geneva in January - that is first and foremost SIHH, but there are a few other brands who seize the opportunity to present themselves - one of them is Zenith. Geneva is a side-event for them, which the brand uses to present refinements (see Art's, Oliver's and my report from 2014 - here !). This year was no exception!

Unmistakable highlight was another iteration of the Academy Christophe Colomb Hurricane Grand Voyage  (3 Hallelujahs for a shorter name...!!!), Version II , which from the front looks exactly like the first one I showed live and in the metal here .




One of its outstanding features is the unique gyrotourbillon to eliminate influences on gravity, the second is the absolutely breathtaking artwork represented both in sculpturing and enamelling techniques. Well, you have seen that...

... but not this:

While the first iteration sported an extremely artistically done representation of Columbus' vessel Santa Maria which he used for his first voyage in 1492. The new one tells the story of the last pre-colonisation times, with indigenous people (left) presenting Mr Columbus (right) with tropical fruits and a parrot (center). Amazingly done!

... somehow I feel more attracted to the fruits... ;-)
Are words needed? Sometimes I would like to wear it 'sunny side up'...

Delicate expressions of top-flight craftsmanship, engraving and micro-painting showcase the full measure of Zenith’s virtuosity in creating horological works combining technical refinement with magnificent artistry - limited to 10 pieces!

Next up is an almost adorable (and finely revised!) version of the El Primero 36'0000 VPH - here in a steel case and a beautiful vintage-y off-white lacquered dial:

42mm, but note how they fine-tuned the dial: The date moved from 6 to the 4:30 position with a slightly enlarged window (how considerate, thus ensures that Nicolas (amanico) will let this watch untouched so we can admire it...):

Movement of course is the automatic El Primero 400 B:

It wears quite big, but this is something I would have to confirm... A really classical, charming piece - well done!


Then, the 3 watches of the Charles Vermot homage collection (Pilot Type 20 GMT, El Primero Chronomaster Power Reserve Open; Captain Power Reserve) - common features to all: 

- special dials

- back crystal sporting a very finely laser-engraved list of all chronometric records Zenith ever was awarded in its 150 years of existence

- limited to 50 pieces 

- boutiques-exclusive

First one is the Pilot Type 20 GMT: 48mm titanium case:

Superb blue sunday dial...

The secret is on the back side: display back revealing an Elite movement (hey, and it does not look too small even, quelle surprise) and unique engraved case-back:

48mm of gorgeousness. Too big for most (including myself), but a serious watch for sure with very delicate and subtle limitation features!

Second piece is the El Primero Chronomaster Power Reserve Open. Comes in steel (42mm) with a blue sun ray dial highlighting the silicon escapement parts:

Adorned display back as above:

Last of then is the Captain Power Reserve, with a velvet-finshed black dial, powered by an Elite movement

Also here the common theme:

This is what I would call a speciality for those in the know...

The El Primero Synopsis is expanded by this rather sexy contender, in black with a steel case...





The family membership to the famous El Primero can't be overlooked. Note also the silicon escapement:

More posts: AcademyCaptain Power ReserveChristophe Colomb HurricaneChristophe Colomb Hurricane GrandChronomaster Power ReserveEl PrimeroEl Primero 410 Tribute to Charles VermotElitePilotSynopsisType 20 GMTWinsor Annual Calendar

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