Zenith: BASELWORLD 2015 Live Report | ZENITH

ZENITH

A Watch Brand Known for its Masterful El Primero Movement

Celebrating its 150th Anniversary, the Lineup is Reorganized into Four Series

Zenith marks its 150th anniversary this year. The entire lineup has been reorganized starting this year. The men's model line has been reorganized into four categories: two series featuring the legendary high-speed El Primero movement, 'Academy' and 'El Primero,' and two series featuring the Elite three-hand movement, 'Elite' and 'Pilot.'

Text by KAWADA Akinori

From Summer 2015, All El Primero Models Will Be Certified Chronometers

This year marks Zenith's 150th anniversary. The first commemorative models were released in Geneva in January, followed by a series of new releases at Baselworld. Notably, the collection has been significantly streamlined and reorganized around Zenith's two core movements, 'El Primero' and 'Elite.' New models are being actively introduced, with further preparations underway for year-end releases.

Furthermore, it was announced that from this summer, all El Primero movements will undergo official chronometer certification. For users, this public certification of the El Primero's high precision is expected to lead to greater satisfaction and confidence when making a choice. Amidst this, the new Elite model with approximately 100 hours of power reserve, and the sportier El Primero-equipped models are particularly noteworthy at this year's Baselworld.

The Elite 6150 Boasts Approximately 100 Hours of Power Reserve

In recent years, watch brands seem to be focusing on extending the power reserve – the duration a watch can operate continuously. This is a welcome development for users, as it means the watch keeps running without constant winding or adjustment.

While other brands aim for power reserves of around 72 to 80 hours, the Elite 6150 ensures reliable operation even if the watch is left off the wrist over the weekend, with time to spare on Monday morning. This extended four-day power reserve is a significant benefit for users. Consistent operation over longer periods also contributes to improved accuracy. The minimalist design, featuring only center hands, a simple dial with bar indices, and the brand logo, is equally appealing. The meticulous finishing of the dial is further enhanced, creating a design that subtly and elegantly adorns the cuff of a suit.

The Legendary "Rainbow Flyback" Returns!

While the El Primero lineup offers a wide variety of styles, it lacked a contemporary sports model. The vibrant color scheme of the past sports model, the "Rainbow Flyback," lives on in the dynamic "Stratos Rainbow," but the "El Primero Sport" has been newly created to embody a smart, sporty aesthetic.

The design is both classic and active. It features lockable push-buttons and a water resistance of 20 ATM, befitting the "Sport" designation, offering ample peace of mind for daily wear. Despite its relatively large 45mm case, the slim bezel lends it a refined appearance, making it an appealing watch that enhances a sporty image.

A Black Model Utilizing Unique Special Technology

The "Ceramized Aluminum" used in this watch is a material developed exclusively by Zenith. By molecularly fusing ceramic and aluminum, its hardness is significantly increased, resulting in exceptional toughness. Its matte black finish imparts a remarkably sharp and active image.

While the 2013 model, the "Chronomaster Brit," also featured this material with a striking red accent, this new model is entirely black. It exudes an even more robust and Spartan aura, with the metallic color of the El Primero's movement visible through the dial window shining brilliantly. The styling perfectly matches the name "Night Vision." Beyond its strength derived from special materials, the design demonstrates a masterful understanding of how to present a watch.