Zenith x Porter Pilot Collection

In the world of watchmaking exciting new collaborations often emerge, captivating watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. One such collaboration that has recently taken the watch world by storm is the Zenith x Porter Pilot Collection. This partnership brings together two industry titans, each with a rich heritage and a dedication to craftsmanship: Zenith, the renowned Swiss watchmaker with a legacy of over 150 years, and Porter, the iconic Japanese bag manufacturer celebrated for its utilitarian designs and meticulous attention to detail.



Zenith, a name synonymous with innovation and precision, has been at the forefront of watchmaking since its founding in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot. The brand's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological technology has resulted in numerous groundbreaking achievements, including the creation of the El Primero movement, the world's first automatic chronograph caliber, in 1969. Zenith's Pilot collection, which has its roots in the early days of aviation, has become an icon in its own right, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration.



Porter, established in 1962 by Yoshida & Co., has earned a reputation for its exceptional quality and functional designs. Inspired by military aesthetics, Porter bags are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using durable materials and innovative construction techniques. The brand's commitment to excellence has garnered a loyal following among discerning individuals who appreciate both style and practicality.



The Zenith x Porter Pilot Collection represents a harmonious fusion of Swiss watchmaking expertise and Japanese design sensibilities. This collaboration has given birth to two limited-edition timepieces: the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition and the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition. Both watches are rendered in a distinctive khaki ceramic, a nod to the signature color of Porter's renowned bags.



The Pilot Automatic Porter Edition, housed in a 40mm khaki ceramic case, exudes a rugged yet refined aesthetic. The flat-top round bezel and the oversized black PVD steel crown, a hallmark of Zenith Pilot watches, contribute to its utilitarian charm. The textured, grooved dial, reminiscent of the corrugated metal sheets used in vintage aircraft construction, adds a touch of vintage flair. The dial is further enhanced by bright orange hands, providing a striking contrast against the khaki backdrop and ensuring optimal legibility. The oversized luminescent Arabic numerals and the distinctive hour marker at 6 o'clock, reminiscent of an artificial horizon instrument, complete the dial's distinctive design.



The Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition, presented in a 42.5mm khaki ceramic case, shares the same rugged elegance as its three-hand counterpart. However, this model boasts additional complications that cater to the needs of discerning watch enthusiasts. The big date display at 6 o'clock, featuring white numerals on khaki discs, is driven by a patented mechanism that ensures instantaneous and precise date changes. The flyback chronograph function, a favorite among aviators, allows for the chronograph to be reset and restarted with a single push of a button, simplifying timing operations.



Both watches are powered by Zenith's renowned El Primero automatic high-frequency chronograph caliber, a testament to the brand's commitment to precision and performance. The movement's intricate workings are visible through the sapphire crystal case back, adorned with the Porter logo.



To complement these exceptional timepieces, Zenith and Porter have collaborated on a bespoke messenger bag. Crafted in Porter's signature khaki color, the bag features a blue interior lining, a nod to Zenith's brand identity. This exclusive accessory is designed to house the watch box, providing a stylish and practical way to transport and protect these limited-edition treasures.



The Pilot Automatic Porter Edition is a study in rugged refinement. Its 40mm khaki ceramic case, measuring 12.90 mm thick, strikes a balance between robustness and wearability. The choice of ceramic, a material known for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, ensures that the watch will retain its pristine appearance for years to come. The khaki hue, reminiscent of military garb and outdoor gear, lends the watch a utilitarian charm that aligns perfectly with Porter's design philosophy.



The dial of the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition is a masterpiece of legibility and functionality. The textured, grooved surface, inspired by the fuselage of vintage aircraft, adds a touch of visual interest and depth. The oversized Arabic numerals, rendered in a bold, contemporary font, are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The bright orange hands, a distinctive feature of this limited edition, provide a striking contrast against the khaki dial, further enhancing legibility.



At the heart of the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition beats the El Primero 3620 automatic high-frequency manufacture movement. This exceptional caliber, a descendant of the legendary El Primero chronograph movement, operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, ensuring exceptional accuracy and precision. The movement boasts a power reserve of 60 hours, allowing the watch to keep time reliably even after being left unworn for an extended period.



The El Primero 3620 is not only a technical marvel but also a visual treat. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the movement's intricate components and meticulous finishing are on full display. The blackened oscillating weight, resembling an "artificial horizon" dashboard instrument, adds a touch of aeronautical flair.



Completing the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition are two interchangeable straps: a khaki nylon strap with orange Velcro elements, supplied by Porter, and a khaki cordura-effect rubber strap. Both straps are equipped with a quick-release system, allowing for effortless swapping without the need for tools. This versatility ensures that the watch can be adapted to suit a variety of occasions and styles.



The Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition builds upon the foundation of the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition, adding a layer of complexity and functionality that will appeal to watch aficionados. Housed in a 42.5mm khaki ceramic case, this model commands a presence on the wrist while remaining comfortable to wear.



The dial of the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition shares the same textured, grooved surface and oversized Arabic numerals as its three-hand counterpart. However, this model features additional complications that elevate its functionality. The big date display at 6 o'clock, with its white numerals on khaki discs, provides a clear and instantaneous reading of the date. The flyback chronograph function, a complication prized by aviators and watch enthusiasts alike, allows for the chronograph to be reset and restarted with a single push of a button, simplifying timing operations.



Powering the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition is the El Primero 3652 automatic high-frequency chronograph caliber. This sophisticated movement, a testament to Zenith's horological expertise, operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour and boasts a power reserve of 60 hours. The movement's intricate workings are visible through the sapphire crystal case back, adorned with the Porter logo.



Like the Pilot Automatic Porter Edition, the Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition comes with two interchangeable straps: a khaki nylon strap with orange Velcro elements, supplied by Porter, and a khaki cordura-effect rubber strap. Both straps are equipped with a quick-release system, ensuring effortless interchangeability.



The Zenith x Porter Pilot Collection represents a harmonious fusion of Swiss watchmaking tradition and Japanese design aesthetics. These limited-edition timepieces, each limited to 500 pieces, are a testament to the shared values of Zenith and Porter: a commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and functionality.



The Pilot Automatic Porter Edition, with its rugged yet refined design and exceptional El Primero movement, is priced at $11,300. The Pilot Big Date Flyback Porter Edition, boasting additional complications and a larger case size, is priced at $15,500.