Zenith

Tim_M
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Excellent Series Concept

This is an excellent series concept, and I'm excited to see where it will lead. Your setting, photography, and write-up are ideal for a detailed watch study. If you have specific models in mind for future editions, please let us know whether we can sway your decision.

With respect to the watch, I'll be the odd man out and say that I liked some of the old Nataf-era Chronomaster Opens, and I'm in favor of keeping at least one such watch in the lineup.

While I think the Sun/Moon with the grand date (especially with black dial)  achieves a more pleasing effect than the Synopsis, I think Zenith certainly has some license to create an elaborate and somewhat flamboyant three-hand piece in the product line. For the exceptionally conservative or three-hand PuristS, there are several sober Elite models that suit this purpose. I feel that if Zenith intends to build an El Primero-based time only watch, some aspect of the watch needs to announce its distinction from the otherwise identical Elite models, and revealing the escapement seems like an appropriate measure.

However, I do think that this watch is overwhelmed by the visual mass of the metal bracelet and excessively bulky bracelet links; this bracelet looks like it belongs on an upscale 45mm dive watch.. This watch is crying out for a more delicate bracelet.  Even better would be a dark navy or black leather strap to provide striking contrast with the light dial and better compliment the somewhat delicate dial and case proportions.  A strap would make this watch better suited to delicate female wrists as well, thus better positioning it as a viable option for women who don't desire an overtly "feminine" design from the Star lineup.

Tim