Introducing: The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Silver

February 15, 2019

While not unheard of, silver cases are pretty unusual in watchmaking today. With much more durable white metals like steel and titanium readily available, watchmakers typically go in that direction, and then opt for ?platinum or white gold when aiming for a higher-end execution. In a way, the relative rarity of silver watches is a pity, because silver has a warmth all its own, and it tends to patina in a way that many watch lovers, especially those who are into vintage aesthetics, would appreciate. The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special we see here is the first silver-cased wristwatch from Zenith. This is the first of the pre-Baselworld releases that we are seeing from Zenith, and this new Pilot's Type 20 comes with a dial made of brushed silver that has been matched to the case. The dial also has a riveting pattern that is a direct allusion to vintage aviation. And the oversized numerals and hands, paired with the oversized crown, and large 45mm case size, add up to a really rugged-looking tool watch. Inside is an automatic Zenith Elite automatic movement. Initial Thoughts The dial on this watch is very interesting to me. Besides being made, like the case, from an unusual material, the dial has a motif the likes of which I've not seen on any watch before. At 45mm in diameter, this is a watch whose size is going to appeal to those looking for a really bold pilot's watch that makes an immediate impression.?The Zenith Flying Instruments decoration on the back of the case is a reminder that Zenith has been making watches for aviation for heck of a long time. In fact, Zenith holds the trademark for the Pilot name as it applies to watches. Commonly seen in jewelry but rarely seen in watchmaking, silver is a material that will definitely take on a its own character based on how it's worn and the conditions that the wearer subjects it too. We've seen the rise of popularity in bronze watches, I think, for similar reasons. I wonder if we may be about to see more silver models hitting the market in the near future too. With 2019 being the 50th anniversary of the El Primero, people who follow watches are really focused on what Zenith may or may not do in the realm of chronographs this year. This piece obviously is not that, but it is a good-looking Pilot with an interesting case and dial.? The Basics Brand: Zenith Model: Pilot Type 20 Extra Special SilverReference Number: 05.2430.679.17.C902?Diameter: 45mmThickness: 14.25mmCase Material: SilverDial Color: Brushed silverIndexes: Large, luminousLume: Yes, hands and numeralsWater Resistance: 100 metersStrap/Bracelet: Brown calfskin leather strap The Movement Caliber: Zenith Elite 679 movementFunctions: Hours, minutes, secondsDiameter: 25.6mmThickness: 3.85mmPower Reserve: 50 hoursWinding: AutomaticFrequency: 28,800 vphJewels: 27 Pricing & Availability Price: $7,700Availability: Expected late April Limited Edition: 200 piecesFor more click here.