FUNKE OSAE-BROWN

Zenith watch is keeping the energy going in 2017 with the unveiling of its new Pilot Extra Special Chronograph in Bronze on February 16, 2017.

After launching two new models in Geneva in January not many people are not expecting to see Zenith announce a new watch soon until it unveils its Baselworld in March.

In 2017, Zenith is moving away from collaborations, as it is focused on releasing rare pieces for collectors and watch enthusiasts.

The new Pilot Extra Special Chronograph has a lot going for it and will no doubt the new must-have Zenith for many watch collectors. Beating at the chronograph’s heart is Zenith’s high-frequency 4069 automatic column-wheel chronograph caliber, running at 36,000 vph (or 5Hz). The movement itself measures 6.6mm thick, and offers a power reserve of 50 hours.

When it comes to the case itself the watch isn’t nearly svelte, measuring 14.25mm thick and 45mm in diameter, however when it comes to large pilot watches this isn’t particularly out of line. Having previously worn the 3-hand bronze model we can safely state that the piece has a significant presence on-wrist, but it isn’t too overpowering for those used to more compact timepieces. A healthy dose of C1 Super-Luminova has been applied to its indices and hands to ensure ideal legibility in low-light conditions, and thanks to a screw-down crown the new piece is good for 100m of water resistance so you don’t need to worry about it getting it damp from time to time.

The new chronograph will have a retail price of N2, 250, 700.00 ($7,100), and Zenith will be taking pre-orders on the new piece as of the start of Baselworld next month. First deliveries are anticipated by the end of May or June.