New Release
Magnus and Oliver took a small detour from the SIHH to meet with Zenith for a relaxed preview on some of this year's Basel novelties. The result is presented as a collaboration of Purists, separated by an ocean, eight time zones, and something less than six degrees. You know what I admire most about
. . . with concentric moon . . . g . . . and sun phase indicator. This particular watch is based upon a limited edition exclusively created for the Austrian market, showcasing a fine two-tone treatment with gold pushers, crown, and dial highlights. Wrist shots on Magnus' arm . . . . . . reveal how well it wears. Not exactly overpowering, even at a large-ish 45 mm diameter. I suspect the sun phase (or day-night) indicator is the enhancement that makes this model of special interest to a segment o
. . . boutique edition, with applied Arabic indices. I can tell the two liked this one by the number of wrist shots they took! First on Magnus'... … then on Oliver's wrist: Not a hint of excess; most tasteful. Thumbs up.
. . . is a case study in successful refinement. The less ornate portrayal of the power reserve indicator and date aperture in comparison with previous incarnations projects elegance, subtly enhanced by the absence of engraving. In this instance . . . . . . less is more. A signed tang buckle . . . . . . fastens the watch to Oliver's wrist. Equally appealing . . . . . . in steel. Definitely, thumbs up.
. . . has been given the same treatment as the Power Reserve: removal of all dial engraving and flourishes. The effect, though . . . g . . . isn't quite the same; starker rather than simplified. My sense is there's now a palpable incongruity between the modern large date aperture and the classic stature of the dial. The engraved section on previous version worked to soften the edges of the aperture, and its absence alters the character of the watch. Sadly, thumbs down.
. . . appears to embody the silicon technology developed for the Striking 10th, as witnessed by the purple escape wheel and anchor. Magnus or Oliver will have to confirm whether this is a new development in this particular movement; to the best of my recollection, this advancement was not incorporated before now. Like the looks . . . . . . especially as pictured, in black. Pure chronograph performance with a technical twist. As Siskel and Ebert would've said, two thumbs up!
. . . boutique edition, with similar applied Arabic indices as the Captain Central Seconds. The genius of Oechslin's and Gerber's efforts were put to good use by applying the techniques developed for the MIH to the El Primero. I have to admit to ambivalence about this attempt at refinement. The MIH evinces charm in its quirkiness. Zenith has ironed out some of the idiosyncrasies in the first iterations, and even more in this edition. A case of 'the glass half full'. My perception tends towards a
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