WatchTime - August 2012

SCORES
ZENITH PILOT BIG DATE SPECIAL
Strap and clasp (max. 10 points):
The simple pronged buckle is a good
match for the nice calfskin strap but is
not well finished. 7
Operation (5): The crown and pushers
are easy to use but the lack of a hack
mechanism makes it impossible to set
the time precisely. 4
Case (10): The case has a nicely detailed
design and solid finishes. 8
Design (15): Pleasing variety of
attractive details but hard-to-read
big date display 11
Legibility (5): Numerous complicated
displays are difficult to read with low
contrast between the hands and dial.
Legibility is better at night. 3
Wearing comfort (10): The case fits the
wearer's wrist almost as perfectly as the
supple strap and pronged buckle. 9
Movement (20): The nicely decorated
classic movement was improved with a
big date display that takes the place of
the hour counter. 16
Rate results (10): The average gain, maximum
deviation in different positions and
amplitude drop between the horizontal
and vertical positions were all low. 9
Value (15): The watch is well priced for
a manufacture chronograph with a big
date display 13
TOTAL: 80 POINTS
The El Primero 4010 chronograph
movement is visible beneath a
perfectly sized sapphire caseback.
August 2012 WatchTime 87