Zenith

The first novelty is the El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Felix Baumgartner , obviously designed to celebrate the pioneering partnership of Zenith with the Austrian namesake skydiver (more in my report here ):

The watch comes at a hefty diameter of 45mm with a steel case featuring a rotating aluminium bezel. Pushers are also substantial and double (somehow) as crown protectors: 

Again, Zenith has done much homework which is particularly manifest in the quality of the bracelet. Its not the best in industry, but very close in terms of fit and finish. Well done!

The Cal. El Primero 405B (Flyback) is hidden behind a - very nicely done - steel case back, adorned with the engraved portrait of the record breaker:

Our impressions:

Zenith utilised the opportunity of its partnership with Mr Baumgartner to present a watch matching the occasion. What pleased us particularly watch the refinement and maturity of the overall package, which showed that Zenith pays close attention to such details (which are very important to us!). Its a watch we liked a lot, very pleasant to wear. We would appreciate further bracelets of this quality offered with throughout the collections.

The second novelty in this collection follows the footsteps of last year's special edition for the Austrian market. It was huge success - both in terms of sales but also in terms of design: Steel with a chocolate dial and rose gold accents (pushers, crown). Zenith made a similar model, the El Primero Grande Date, even available for the general public - see our Pre-Basel report:

This year, Austria gets a special model again, this time a simple El Primero in the same magnificent colour scheme:

Its is a striking combination of particular beauty. where the subtly arranged colours shine even more than with more complicated timepieces (and thus more busy dials). The circular polished chapter rings serve as hypnotising eye-catchers on this star.

The movement of course can be admired through a display back. It finely finished:

This certainly is a subtle way of wearing some gold:

One just has to get to peace with the (too?) short hour hand - the only drawback of this watch:

Our Impressions:

Something special is in the Austrian air: Repeatedly the alpine branch of Zenith designed a timepiece with a magic formula of colours. Its not a terribly innovative piece, but a very welcome addition nonetheless. Some might be bothered by the white date disk.

More posts: El PrimeroFelix BaumgartnerStratos Flyback Tribute to Felix BaumgartnerUrwerk

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