Even though all the manufacturers that take part in the Only Watch 2011 have to present a unique watch, it seems that this was just not enough for Zenith. It has prepared two exclusive watches that will be sold as a set (one is intended to be a work timepiece, whereas the other tends to be a watch to be worn during weekends or adventures). Each of the watches from the set has an interesting twist – a “lefty” feature – the crown and pushers are located at the left side of the case, and the watches are thus more appropriate for left-handed people. It is also important to note that both models have the iconic El Primero movement.
Since it is estimated that as much as the one tenth of the population is left-handed, it is not such a surprise that Zenith has decided to make watches that are adjusted to this group’s needs. The lefty feature is added to both models, named Zenith El Primero Captain Lefty Chronograph and Zenith El Primero Pilot Chronograph.
Since the crown and the pushers sit on the left side, there are also some adjustments on the dial, especially on the placement of its sub dials. Unlike the usual models, these two have 30-minute sub dials on the left, and small-seconds sub dials on the right side. This characteristic could disturb purists who prefer the classical design, but it also adds to the uniqueness of the watches.
El Primero Movement in Golden and Steel Cases
Both watches include an El Primero automatic movement that brought the world fame to Zenith. This movement, developed by the Swiss manufacturer, is the most punctual series-produced mechanical movement in the world. The accuracy is based in the cadence of its balance. While most other movements beat at 8 vibrations per second, the El Primero beats 10 times. With impressive 36.000 vibrations per hour, this module has a clear advantage when compared to the competitors.
The difference between the materials used for the cases of these two watches by Zenith reflects their initial purpose. The Captain Chronograph piece includes an 18-kt pink gold case, and it is undoubtedly going to impress all the clients and co-workers of the future wearer. The Pilot Chronograph wristwatch, on the other hand (no pun intended), possesses a steel case, and is appropriate for leisure time and weekend activities. Both products feature diameters of 42 mm. However, the Pilot version also sports a telemeter scale around its dial.
These are good-looking watches, but I feel they lack the originality of the other pieces from the auction. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing bad about them, but I feel that “the lefty” feature is just not distinctive and original enough. Maybe that is why they have two watches?