Zenith at Tour Auto Optic 2000 Grand Palais

foversta · 2015-04-21T13:16:36Z

Explore the Tour Auto's starting line at Grand Palais, Paris, with Zenith. See classic cars, historical Zenith watches, and watchmaking displays in this pictorial report.

foversta

WPS member · Zenith forum

3 replies3485 views35 photos

Foversta delivers a pictorial report from the Tour Auto's starting line at the Grand Palais in Paris, highlighting Zenith's significant presence as a new partner. The post showcases an impressive array of classic cars alongside Zenith's historical timepieces and watchmaking demonstrations. This report offers a comprehensive look at the synergy between classic automotive racing and high horology.

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I was very happy to attend the event organized yesterday at the Grand Palais which can be considered as the starting line of the Tour Auto. It is always the same story every year: what an impressive gathering of classic cars in such beautiful scenery!

I would like to share with you this pictorial report whose aim is to show you that Zenith, as a new partner with the Tour Auto, decided to be have an ambitious and visible presence... even larger than Hublot one!

I already did a comprehensive presentation of the watch dedicated to the event here:
zenith.watchprosite.com

so I will not come back to it.

I propose you to accompany me in my long walk inside the Grand Palais to discover the stars of the show!

In the center of the Grand Palais, Ferrari set up its booth with the contestants' cars around it:

The Grand Palais is a stunning architectural achievement:

Some cars are much older than others!

The nice surprise was the presence of a large Zenith booth with a watchmaker and a display of some famous historical pieces!

Working on an EP movement:

The powerful 5011K movement:

What is the common point between cars and some watches? Chains maybe!

One of the most famous chronograph movements, the El Primero:

Some historical Zenith pieces. I was really surprised to see that Zenith managed to bring so many pieces for this event:

Zenith organized its event cocktail in a wing of the Grand Palais:

The beautiful view from the cocktail location:

Thanks to the Zenith team, I could wear the El Primero Chronograph Classic during the event:

This is the car which will be used (actually, currently being used) by Daniel Spadini and Aldo Magada during the race! Yes, Zenith boss is one of the contestants!

Some other cars:

When the night is coming, the Grand Palais seems to change and to become a kind of magic palace...

Time is coming to leave the Grand Palais!

I wish the best to all the contestants and I already have my appointment with the Zenith team on the finish line this week-end in Biarritz!

So stay tuned...

Fx

This message has been edited by foversta on 2015-04-21 13:20:57

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Key Points from the Discussion

A contributor provides additional context on the Tour Auto, noting its first edition in 1899 makes it the oldest automotive competition, and praises Zenith's partnership choice.
A reader inquires about the author's role at the event (spectator or participant) and seeks clarification on the identity of Edmond de Rothschild, whose name appears on racing plates.
A contributor expresses admiration for the combination of classic cars and watches, praising the report for vividly capturing the event's atmosphere and inspiring future attendance.

The Discussion

MTF

Apr 23, 2015

At the Start and the End?

FrX So, how does being a spectator work? Or are you a participant? Having to be at the Start in Paris and at the End in Biarritz? Who is this Edmond de Rothschild whose name is on every racing plate on the cars? Optic 2000 is easier to understand as they make sunglasses. Regards, MTF

Ornatus-Mundi

Apr 25, 2015

THAT's what I would call a start in style!

This Monday, 20th April, the 2015 edition of the Tour Auto was launched under the nave of the Grand Palais in Paris. It was a day dedicated to official unveilings and last-minute technical testing before the tarmac and dust of the road in this highly anticipated competition, departing from Paris on the 21st and set to arrive today in Biarritz. Dear François, thank you so much for your splendid report on this fine event. Zenith really made a perfect choice with the Tour Auto. BTW, with its first

nitediver

Apr 29, 2015

Vintage cars and watches...

...the best combination I can think of ! great report, I wish you could have been there. One day I shall plan for it. thanks for the report, it was a feast for the eyes to see all these wonderful cars in such an outstanding environment. Best Stefan

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Zenith at Tour Auto Optic 2000 Grand Palais

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