Zenith and the Japanese bag brand Porter have collaborated to create two watches in khaki ceramic. The Pilot Automatic Porter Edition and Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition are limited to 500 pieces each. Together with these watches, Porter has designed a matching bag. But what else do these two timepieces offer? In this article, we take an in-depth look at both models.
The Zenith x Porter Pilot comes in two different sizes. The Pilot Automatic Porter Edition features a 40mm case, while the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition is slightly larger at 42.5mm. Both cases showcase a robust matte finish in khaki ceramic, giving them a rugged appearance. The black PVD steel oversized crown on both models, characteristic of the Zenith Pilot collection, has an angular design that ensures easy handling, even when wearing gloves. Additionally, the black PVD pushers and crown on the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition add to its aesthetic. Water resistance is rated at 10 bar, providing adequate protection against water ingress. Scratch-resistant domed sapphire crystals with anti-reflective coating on both sides ensure clear visibility. The see-through sapphire crystal case back reveals the intricate mechanics inside, along with the specially designed rotor resembling an artificial horizon instrument. This design choice reflects the aviation heritage of the Zenith Pilot collection and adds an extra layer of detail to the watch. The engraved logos further emphasize the collaboration between Zenith and Porter.
The dials of the Zenith x Porter Pilot watches feature a textured, grooved design in a khaki tone that echoes the corrugated metal sheets of vintage aircraft fuselages. Both dials bear the logos of Zenith and Porter, highlighting their collaboration. Notably, the hour, minute, and second hands, as well as the chronograph hands on the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition, are painted in a bright orange hue, providing a striking contrast against the dial. This choice not only enhances legibility but also references the orange interiors of Porter bags, inspired by the visibility of rescue jackets. The oversized Arabic numerals, styled in a sleek font and filled with white Super-LumiNova, ensure optimal readability in low-light conditions. At 6 o’clock, the date window is accompanied by a luminescent hour marker that resembles a flat white line, drawing inspiration from the artificial horizon instruments in planes. A point of pride for Zenith, the ‘Pilot’ inscription on the dial signifies the brand’s exclusive rights to use this term, underscoring its historical significance in aviation.
The movement powering the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition is the El Primero 3620, a high-frequency automatic calibre known for its precision and reliability. Operating at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), it provides a smooth sweep of the seconds hand and enhanced timing accuracy. The power reserve is approximately 60 hours, facilitated by a special blackened rotor that resembles an artificial horizon dashboard instrument. This movement is visible through the transparent case back, offering a glimpse into its intricate mechanics. On the other hand, the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition is equipped with the El Primero 3652, a variant of the El Primero movement tailored for the Pilot model. This movement features additional complications such as a flyback chronograph and a big date display at 6 o’clock. The flyback function allows for consecutive timing without the need to reset the chronograph, making it particularly useful for aviators. Like the 3620, the 3652 operates at 5 Hz and has a power reserve of 60 hours. The patented compliant mechanism for the big date ensures a rapid and stable jump of the date wheels. The rectangular PORTER logo on the sapphire crystal case back underscores the collaboration between the two brands.
Both the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition and Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition come with two strap options. One option is a durable khaki nylon strap featuring orange Velcro elements and the signature PORTER stitched logo. The second option is a khaki rubber strap with a Cordura texture and a black PVD steel folding clasp. The quick-release system allows for easy interchangeability of the straps without the need for tools. This added versatility enables wearers to switch between a sporty rubber strap and a more classic nylon strap, depending on their preference or occasion.
The Pilot Automatic Porter Edition and Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition are limited to 500 pieces each. They are available exclusively through Zenith boutiques worldwide, both physical and online. The price for the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition is CHF 10,900, while the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition is priced at CHF 14,900. Each purchase includes a specially designed messenger bag by Porter, reflecting the collaboration between the two brands.
