Still undecided ...

Mar 09, 2019,00:51 AM
 

... what I should think about this Zenith Pilot Big Date: When I purchased it, I was intrigued by its classic Bicompax pilot layout in combination with the big date; a rare configuration. I liked its size, the brushed case and the big crown. However, there are some shortcomings, too: the metallic hands disappear above the dial in many conditions, especially, since the crystal is lacking a good antir-reflective coating. Especially the chronograph indications are very difficult to read, because the short white part is easily confused with one of the subdial's markers. Finally, the font chosen for the big date is such that makes it barely possible to recognize the numbers, especially when not looked at from straight above.


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I kept the watch, but was undecided whether to sell it again or not.

But then came the CP-2 Cronometro:


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This has no date, but other than that is a perfect and extremely attractive watch with premium legibility under all lighting conditions.

This makes the decision on the Pilot Big Date's further fate even more difficult. It has rested in the safe for more than a year without ever seeing a glimpse of daylight. But now I found the pics on my harddrive and thought: Well, it does look good, doesn't it? But I do need more than two classic-looking pilot chronographs?

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In fact I still miss this one and regret having sold it:

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Marcus


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We never have enough, Marcus. Well, that's what we want to hear. Now... I would go for the CP 2 Cronometro only

 
 By: amanico : March 9th, 2019-02:59
If we consider the aesthetics, it is a very appealing Pilot Chrono, with all the DNA. And mechanically, a very good one, with its El Primero movement. No need for more. Best, Nicolas

Without CP2 in your collection I would say keeper with CP2 not so

 
 By: Ares501 - Mr Green : March 9th, 2019-03:45
It certainly has it's appeal but date is very strange here...not on Zenith position and taking lot of space Cheers D

"Rested in the safe..."

 
 By: Echi : March 10th, 2019-20:19
Älmost sounds like an out of sight out of mind kind of a situation. I have watches that I hardly wear but I do check on them, maybe strap them on for a few minutes, admire, then return them to the box. But to not have any sort of interaction with them for...