MTF[PuristS]
13383
Choosing one of the Zenith Stratos Flyback Rainbow
Aug 16, 2014,16:52 PM
Magnus,
Thank you and Ms R for the discussion.
I used to accept all sizes of watches but as I got older, my preference is now for function over form. Inevitably, that function determines the ideal form anyway....so there is no loss of aesthetic merit.
Thus, I chose the smaller Rainbow from 1997. Nothing seems to be added to justify the weight and bulk of the new model.
The gain is half the width of the numerals '3' and '9'; hardly worth it. I see no loss of legibility on the smaller 1997 dial either.
I believe that the large model will suit some people and the sales prove it. In fact, the one advantage of the large Stratos is that it is readily available whereas a good example of the 1997 model is difficult to source. By definition, the ones used as tools will be battered and the nice ones will be jealously guarded!
To think that my largest watch used to be 49.2mm diameter.....
Regards,
MTF
Comments:
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I miss my "vintage" Rainbow
By: nilomis : August 16th, 2014-13:37
Perfect balanced, cool case, El Primero inside. The new one is part of the gigantic phase that Zenith is delivering. Too big for my average sized wrist. Congratulations for the post. Very illustrative comparison. Cheers, Nilo
Another great coffee house tale, Magnus! :)
By: blomman Mr Blue : August 16th, 2014-13:52
Thank you, I really enjoy this series! :) The new Rainbow is a monster! Huge! I prefer the old version size. As for the design of the new one I really like the more centered dial with overlapping sub-dials. The date at 6 is not a favorite location, especi...
Excellent post as usual.
By: foversta : August 16th, 2014-14:28
To make a long story short, I have mixed emotions with the Stratos Flyback Rainbow. It is obviously a great watch but its size is too large for my taste... and for the EP movement. Anyway, your article is excellent and it was a pleasure to read it. Fx
Choosing one of the Zenith Stratos Flyback Rainbow
By: MTF : August 16th, 2014-16:52
Magnus, Thank you and Ms R for the discussion. I used to accept all sizes of watches but as I got older, my preference is now for function over form. Inevitably, that function determines the ideal form anyway....so there is no loss of aesthetic merit. Thu...
The legend goes to
By: gup502 : August 17th, 2014-19:52
the first Rainbow flyback. Thanks for the very nice review and comparison of the two watches. For me the latest reincarnation of the Rainbow fits well in today's trends of watch manufacturing. Contrasted to a true pilot watch which the original one was de...
Reflecting today's trends of watch manufacturing - yes, I think so!
By: Ornatus-Mundi : August 21st, 2014-08:01
and I guess this is essential in order to attract buyers. Zenith was a mere wallflower over much of its recent history, thus - besides us - very few potential buyers care about the original watch, I think, and are more interested in an attractive modern w...
Another great post! i prefer...
By: Echi : August 18th, 2014-02:53
the old one. size is more elegant. also prefer the pushers and the bracelet on the old one. then there's the date placement which i think i better executed on the old one. nothing really compelling about the newer model unless maybe your wrist size is mor...
The most telling difference . . .
By: Dr No : August 18th, 2014-17:06
. . . other than size might be the shift in symmetry. The original evinces slanted symmetry with identically sized constantly running seconds and chrono hours counters at a 45º angle to the center line, accentuated by date aperture placement ~ 120º from t...
