Felix Scholz
Zenith is rather proud of the fact and understandably so that they hold the trademark for the Pilot name on watches, so it makes sense for them to proudly emblazon the name on the dials of their aviation-inspired pieces. This latest limited edition is extra special (also mentioned on the dial), because of its uncommon construction.The design of this Pilot is well pure pilot, with its large, classically shaped 45mm case, even bigger onion crown, stylised Arabic numerals and cathedral hands, replete with a suitably rugged calfskin strap (with an extra, somewhat mysterious, layer of leather on the bottom). Where things start getting interesting is the case material. You'd be forgiven for thinking it was steel, or perhaps even white gold. But no, you're looking at sterling silver. Silver, while very traditional in jewellery, isn't frequently seen in watches, largely because it tarnishes over time. However, in this age of forced patina, a silver case offers a dressier alternative to de rigueur bronze.The dial is also noteworthy. Made to resemble the riveted hull of a plane, it also features a very cool, randomised brush finish, again evoking the industrial finishing of early planes. It’s a finish I haven’t seen before on a watch, and one that I'm looking forward to seeing in the metal.Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver Australian pricing and availabilityZenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver, limited to 250 pieces, $11,300
20.02.19