Best of Baselworld: Zenith steal all of the limelight at Baselworld 2019 with show-stopping new releases!
2019 is an important year for many brands celebrating anniversaries of icons. One of which is Zenith and 50 years of the El Primero.
This was reflected visually at Baselworld in the form of the number of people at the Zenith stand. Turning up to our 3 pm meeting and walking into the stand it was clear something special was happening.
This was the place to be. Although it's 50 years of the El Primero this didn't mean Zenith held back on just focusing on a special edition this year. Let's get into it.
First up, the Zenith Defy Inventor.
The New Zenith Defy Inventor 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
This is an insane place to start. You may remember back in 2017 Zenith introduced the Defy Lab watch. This was fitted with the Zenith Oscillator which essentially replaced the balance wheel, lever and balance spring totally around 30 parts of the movement. Fast forward to today and we have the Defy Inventor. A new model which makes the most of said technology on a commercial level.
The New Zenith Defy Inventor 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
This model does come in at 44mm wide and 14.5mm thick case, however, on the wrist, it looks incredible. The brushed titanium case with aeronith bezel creates a very unique look and style. The strap fitted to the watch is actually a rubber with an alligator top, meaning you get the durability of rubber but with the style and class of leather.
The New Zenith Defy Inventor 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
Combine that with the mesmerizing movement and the result is a seriously badass watch.
The Zenith Pilot 20 Adventure
The New Zenith Pilot 20 Adventure 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
The biggest talking point here with these new models is the new green dials and bronze cases. These new models combine quite an urban style with heightened versatility. The large case, bold indices, hands and oversized crown really suit the direction Zenith are looking to take this range. The Khaki green coloured dials almost a dark grey in certain light. Very cool stuff.
The New Zenith Pilot 20 Adventure 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
A very unique approach to a popular Zenith model. Yet again we see the brands giving some love to replacement straps as well, as when you buy either the time only model or the chronograph El Primero movement option you get a camouflage style leather or a dark green/grey strap as standard.
My personal favourite is the time only Pilot 20 Adventure on the grey / green simple leather. Nice and legible, and less cluttered meaning that amazing dial texture and colour can really shine through. Sticking with the Pilot line…
The New Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver
The New Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
Not only has Zenith had a crazy busy year with all El Primero related recently, but they also decided to introduce their first ever timepiece with a solid silver case. With only 250 being produced, this version of the watch offers an interesting approach effectively summarising the Pilot range.
The New Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
On the wrist, you can tell this is a special watch. Sure the size is on the large side, but much like the Adventure range, it suits it perfectly. The clean sharp colours of the case, dial and hands are so perfect.
The New Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
El Primero A386 Revival 50th Anniversary
The New Zenith El Primero A386 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
The start of easily two of the best releases of Baselworld 2019. Zenith decided to celebrate 50 years of the El Primero by releasing three different models of the A386. These three models are insanely close to an OG A386 apart from one main difference. One is white gold, one is yellow and one is rose gold.
The New Zenith El Primero A386 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
Presented to us in a large 3 watch box, each watch is limited to 50 models in each material colour and come with a massive 50 years guarantee.
Happy 50th El Primero.
You sure know how to party Zenith. Deciding on a favourite out of these three has taken a lot of thought. And my personal conclusion is, you just can’t. They all belong together because of how special they are.
The New Zenith El Primero A386 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
The white gold is a reliable, versatile almost daily wearer option. The yellow gold option feels the most old school out of the three. And the rose gold feels the classiest.
Last but most definitely not least… The Defy El Primero Double Tourbillon.
The New Zenith Defy El Primero Double Tourbillon 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
7 words. Chronograph. Double tourbillon. Carbon case. 14mm thickness. Need we say anymore?
Here we have a very very special double tourbillon watch. As standard one tourbillon oscillates, doing its thing. On the click of the chrono-pusher, the other tourbillon jumps into life.
The New Zenith Defy El Primero Double Tourbillon 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
Then consider the fact it’s all wrapped up in a 14mm thickness. A truly stand out, killer release coming in over £100,000...
The New Zenith Defy El Primero Double Tourbillon 2019 - Image credit: WatchGecko Online Magazine
It’s fairly clear that I’m a big fan of the Zenith releases this year. They have gone above and beyond this year to ensure it's one to remember.
The El Primero is one of the most important additions for the industry. And wrapping up our meeting, the Zenith stand remained as busy as ever. If possible, Zenith has become even more of a favourite brand for me...
Our Zenith brand representative for the day, Vittoria Pela wearing a Zenith Defy Classic 41mm White Ceramic. Thank you for your amazing help and for showing us the watches Vittoria!
To find out more about the new Zenith releases, check out their site here!
Oh, and expect more Zenith coverage in the near future right here on the WatchGecko Online Magazine!
