Watch and Pen Collectors - ZENITH PILOT MONTRE D'AERONEF

In obvious tribute to its inspiration, the new Pilot Montre d'Aιronef Type 20 learns from the past to update the technical triumphs and reinterpret the codes of a high-flying success.

Its outsized 57.5 mm-diameter case is in proportion to the great aviation feats of the early 20th century. A vibrant tribute to the free-spirited pioneers of the skies, it is the very essence of infinite, unlimited time - mirroring the greatest discoveries.

The original aviator watch

This watch dabbles in excess. Like the skies that beg to be conquered, it chooses to anchor time in a large space, confidently letting the hours tick away. The 57.5 mm-diameter case, made of titanium to offset the weight of the movement it contains, has the qualities of an instrument that was born to fly. The notched crown is reminiscent of those on antique aviator watches, which allowed pilots to set the watch without taking off their gloves. The 27 mm space between the lugs accentuates the shape of the extremely refined lugs that attach an antiqued leather strap sewn and topstitched entirely by hand. Adding to the vintage feel is the black dial, which is easily readable thanks to luminous elements. Beneath the impressive sapphire crystal (glareproofed on both sides), the raised numerals of the chapter ring are made of entire blocks of Superluminova. The time is indicated by hands that are also enhanced with luminescent material.

The visually balanced counters display the small seconds at 9 o'clock and the

power reserve at 3 o'clock. The aesthetics serve mainly to make reading the time easier, recalling the functional approach taken in traditional aviator watches.