Zenith pilot cronometro tipo cp-2 flyback bronze

[carlhaluss]

During the past year or so, I have come to appreciate Zenith, to the point where two of my favorite watches are bronze Pilot models from this brand. I recently acquired the PILOT CRONOMETRO TIPO CP-2 FLYBACK (Type Stopwatch Chronograph) in bronze.

Attention to detail on craftsmanship is second-to-none. The beautifully finished bronze case, and the brown/gold dial that just looks amazing. Although I am not quite sure what material is used on the dial. The beautiful crown with Zenith star, and the pushers are in keeping with Zenith's fine attention to detail. The nubuck brown leather strap complements the watch beautifully. The Zenith buckle is titanium and, although I couldn't find any information for certain, I believe the metal part of the transparent case back is also titanium. Not a thick watch at all, sits very comfortably on wrist.

Admittedly, I avoided paying this watch much attention, since it came out last year. I was disappointed that I had missed the 2016 Limited Edition, the Cronometro Tipo CP 2, which was inspired by the 1960s Cairelli chronograph, produced for the Italian Army and Air Force pilots by distributor A. Cairelli. I won't go into details about that LE piece, as there is plenty of information elsewhere online. This Flyback version which introduced at Basel 2018 is exactly same dimensions, with different color/material case, dial, hands and bezel. I haven't been able to find out what material the bezel is made of. The black forms a beautiful contrast with the dial. And, as on the 2016 LE, the watch is very clear and readable. I'm not at all disappointed now that I missed the 2016 LE, as I have quite a few watches with stainless steel cases and black dials.

I am mesmerized by the details and vintage appeal of this model. While I am not normally one for chronographs and rotatable bezels - this one is bi-directional - I have no problem making an exception with this beautiful watch. The pushers, easy to operate with smooth assuredness, and although the crown does not screw down, the water resistance is a very respectable 100M.

Just like to share a few of the better pics I have taken so far:













Movement: El Primero 405 B, Automatic Flyback Chronograph
Case Daimeter: 43mm Lug Width: 22mm Strap taper to 18mm
Thickness: 12.85mm
Water Resistance: 10 atm
Case: Bronze, with titanium/sapphire exhibition back
Strap: Brown nubuck leather with rubber lining, titanium pin buckle

I could ramble on about the many attributes of this watch. Thanks for looking at my review and pics.

Cheers,
Carl

[p_mcgee]

Beautiful watch - congratulations. I especially like the tropical dial effect. My only reservation is the large diameter paired with what look like long lugs.

[carlhaluss]

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

Beautiful watch - congratulations. I especially like the tropical dial effect. My only reservation is the large diameter paired with what look like long lugs.

Well, the lugs are rather long, and extend mostly to the end of my 7.25in. wrist, although I don't get the feeling that I am wearing a particularly large watch. Perhaps I can provide a better wrist shot, not so close up, that gives a clearer idea of how it fits the wrist:



It certainly appears larger in the photos than how it actually feels on the wrist. Mind you, I am used to wearing some pretty large watches, up to 47mm for the Panerai. This is actually the size of the original, though, and for reasons of legibility for the pilots, both overall watch and subdials.

[Burlington]

Really amazing photos OP !

[ChrisInCharlotte]

Congrats! They are amazing pieces

[carlhaluss]

Originally Posted by Burlington

Really amazing photos OP !

Thank You! I always think that taking photos of a new watch is a big part of the fun!

Cheers,
Carl

[asiparks]

the watch is very nice, but your photos are beautiful !