Zenith has been busy experimenting with carbon fibre, ceramised aluminum, titanium, and enhanced, light-weight synthetic fibre -- space-age stuff that's commonly associated with Formula One racing and astronautical engineering. So, you'd be forgiven if you thought the Swiss watchmaker was trying to build a race car, or assist in repair works at the International Space Station.

Fortunately, Zenith are sticking to the business it does best -- and perfecting it. The fruit of its labour: the 100-piece limited-edtion, semi-skeletonized El Primero Lightweight.

Weighing in at a mere 40g, the 45mm Lightweight is an upgraded version of the iconic 42mm El Primero Striking 10th (launched in 2010). Zenith has made this version bigger but lighter by utlising high-tech materials in its construction -- both within and without.

Its case, measuring 13.2mm thick, is made from carbon fibre and ceramised aluminum -- both materials well-known for their lightness and sturdiness. Inspired by automotive racing, a sporty matte checkered pattern adorns its exoskeleton.

The same 4052 W El Primero automatic chronograph movement that powers the Striking 10th beats at 36,000vph within the Lightweight. Made with titanium and silicon, this movement has been engineered to offer a 25% reduction in weight when compared to a regular El Primero movement.

Aesthetically, the Lightweight is a sight to behold. Its partially openworked dial not only allows a glimpse of the watch's movement, but even features the handsome, classic tri-colour sub-dials -- that also adorns the Striking 10th. Peek through its open caseback and you'll catch a hint of the watch's purple silicon double chronograph wheel.

 

Case: Carbon fibre 

Movement: Automatic El Primero 4052 W

Function: Date, hours, minutes and seconds.Chronograph with 1/10th second display

Power Reserve: 50 hours

 

www.zenith-watches.com