A few weeks ago I discovered a blogger/writer called Hamilton Nolan. Although Hamilton writes about many different subjects it was his provocative article entitled ‘Why Do Assholes Love Watches?’ that interested me the most. The editorial published on the website Gawker (dated the 24th April 2013) explores the motivation for wearing an incredibly expensive watch. Essentially what Hamilton is saying (in a not too subtle way) is that certain men wear Rolex, and Breitling timepieces just to show off. Generally I agree with Hamilton’s sentiments and have met many people that buy luxury items (like watches, clothes, cars) just to show how wealthy they are. However most of the serious watch collectors I personally deal with are more interested in the craftsmanship and design.
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting with Zenith’s International PR Manager Maud Tiberti at Baselworld. Like most her of her contemporaries she delivered an impeccable presentation about the brand and allowed me access to some exquisite watches. Interestingly the story of Zenith dates back to 1865 and was originally established by Georges Favre-Jacot. Within their 150 year history the company has produced many beautiful creations including the distinctive El Primero series of watches. Since 1999 the company has been under the control of luxury goods group LVMH (Louis Vuitton, Moët, Hennessy) and is managed by Jean-Claude Biver.
Even though I tried on several superb watches from Zenith the most impressive by far was the phenomenal Academy Christophe Colomb Hurricane Grand Voyage II. With a luxurious 18-karat rose gold case measuring 45mm x 14.635 mm (increasing to 22mm with the domed sapphire crystal) the watch should appeal to serious collectors. Due to time restrictions I only had the pleasure of wearing this wonderful watch for about five minutes. However within that timescale it gave me an accurate impression of how confortable the piece felt on the wrist. Realistically this timepiece would be reserved for extra special occasions and not for every day usage.
Visually the Academy Christophe Colomb Hurricane Grand Voyage II has an incredibly high quality appearance. The level of detail is extraordinary and every millimeter is ultilised to its maximum potential. I love the open-worked white enamel dial, which perfectly exposes the fusée-chain transmission and mechanical elements of the movement. Other features include an ornate crown and large aperture (located at 6 o’clock) displaying the gyroscopic Self-regulating gravity control module. Overall the design is sophisticated and the finishing is absolutely first rate.
Beneath the extravagant exterior lies a highly accomplished manual winding movement. The Caliber El Primero 8805 comprises 53-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5Hz). Each of the 353 components has been meticulously finished, decorated, engraved and assembled by hand. This entire splendor is visible through the anti-reflective sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the Academy Christophe Colomb Hurricane Grand Voyage II features hours, minutes, small seconds and power reserve indication (50-hours). The timepiece is also water resistant to a depth of 30 metres.
The Academy Christophe Colomb Hurricane Grand Voyage II has a hand stitched black alligator strap with matching 18-karat rose gold triple folding clasp. Priced for the discerning at: CHF 320,000 (approximately $341,280).
For more information about Zenith visit the company’s website: http://www.zenith-watches.com
