Zenith

Zenith's new Elite classical watches, above all the 'simple' time-only automatic 6150 version, driven by the new Cal. Elite 6150 (automatic, 100h PW, 28.800 vph) were widely regarded as one of the most tempting offerings in this league.

For BaselWorld 2016, the manufacture has presented what I would call the ultimate version: the new Zenith Elite 6150 Red Gold:

I guess it is the additional specks of rose gold colour combined with a slightly copperish dial tint which make the difference. The entire watch, despite being absolutely the same than its siblings, save for case material, looks decidedly more tempting.

The case design remains true to its El Primero-driven sister, with a matte finish surrounding the bottom bezel, on an otherwise completely polished case:

The surface contrast is nicely visible.

The movement is the recently presented Cal. 6150, with two barrels providing 4 days of autonomy, despite the high beat rate. Only very few movements offer comparable specifications.

Now, if you gently put it on your wrist and fasten the strap, all the magic happens suddenly:

This piece literally spells eternal-ness, but does whilst teasing with some unmistakable emotionality and sensuality.

Having such a lovely, wide, finely sculptured and warm rose gold object on the wrist - I cannot help but slowly succumb to its allure.

I consider this simple, yet rich watch to be one of the most beautiful watches of the entire 2016 BaselWorld season. It ticks all the right boxes and is a testament for what surprising beauty and temptation can be realised if design is guided by passion, a holistic conception and attention to the details. To sum it up I would say that with the Elite 6150 covered in a red gold case Zenith comprehensively transformed the collection:

• the gold colour adds a subtle additional quality of contrast (compared to the steel version, where surface finishing difference dominate)
• the higher specific density of the case material literally adds 'substance'
• the unique haptics of the alloy emhance the sensual quality of the watch (gold is rather soft and 'warm')

The Zenith Elite 6150 Red Gold is such a logical addition to the collection that initially it was difficult to understand why it was not presented together with the rest of the collection last year. However, having had the chance to admire it in person I can only say: this watch in inevitable - but in another way than I anticipated.

I am not convinced lightly by new watches, but this one here made it easy for me. Of all watches presented this year this one is certainly amongst the 10 best pieces shown!

Thanks for reading,

Magnus

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