Zenith pays tribute to pioneering seaman
In accolade to the legendary explorer Christopher Columbus, Swiss Manufacture Zenith presents one of its most fascinating watch creations that exude creativity
Founded in Le Locle in 1865, the high-end watchmaker, Zenith earned instant recognition for the precision of its chronometers and much later, its legendary El Primero calibre that was launched in 1969. Since then, Zenith has developed over 600 movement variations and is one of the leading brands in Haute Horlogerie.
The Academy Christophe Colomb Hurricane Grand Voyage II is the second instalment of pure artistry and features a complex mechanism that is matched by a remarkable exterior making it a limited edition of just ten pieces. The dial and colourful case back are reminiscent of the adventures of the Italian sailor, Christopher Columbus who completed four voyages in his quest to establish permanent settlements. Zenith founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, shared the same passion and enterprising spirit as Columbus; both explored uncharted horizons where the former paved the future for his brand and the latter braved the rough oceans. Almost a century and a half later, Zenith remains loyal to the quest for precision and innovation, as illustrated by more than 300 patents.
This marvellous creation sets the stage for three major breakthroughs in watchmaking history that are all visible via an open structure on the dial: the barrel with a fusée-chain transmission that is positioned between 10:30 and 1:30, a patented Gravity Control system and an impressive high-frequency regulating organ of 36,000 vibrations per hour that are both positioned at 6 o’clock. The three gold sub-dials are decorated with fine guilloché and white enamel illustrate the functions of hours and minutes at 12’o clock, small seconds at 9 o’clock and the power reserve at 4 o’clock. Each dial is fitted with blued steel hands and screws recalling the grand watch-making tradition.
Although the dial is striking, it’s the case back that truly makes this watch a unique work of art. Zenith once again delights collectors and devotees of rare creations by providing a vivid and subtly layered portrayal of the adventures of Columbus when he discovered America in 1492 on the reverse of the case. The hand-painted scenery places the seaman in the foreground brandishing the flag of the Spanish monarchy, whist a native woman serves him exotic fruit. Behind them, in the background is native man, a parrot and the three famous sailing ships; Niña, Pinta and Santa Maria that are on voyage far into the distance. These delicate applied figures are finely hand-engraved and then alternately patinated or adorned in vibrant colours.
Powered by an El Primero 8805 hand-wound movement, which is 37mm in diameter and consists of 53 jewels, the timepiece has an impressive power reserve of around 50 hours. The 45mm 18-carat rose gold case has a total thickness of 21.80mm which takes into account the domed sapphire crystal that protects the functions of the watch. The watch is water resistant to a depth of 30 metres and is completed with a stunning brown alligator leather strap with a rose gold triple folding clasp.
