Zenith Ennstal Classic Rally 2016 Timekeeper
Automotive

Zenith Ennstal Classic Rally 2016 Timekeeper

By Ornatus-Mundi · Aug 7, 2016 · 18 replies
Ornatus-Mundi
WPS member · Zenith forum
18 replies5238 views2 photos
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Ornatus-Mundi's post captures Zenith's debut as the official timekeeper for the Ennstal Classic Rally 2016, showcasing a vibrant photo essay of classic cars and motorsport legends. This article highlights the synergy between Zenith's chronograph heritage and the world of vintage racing, complemented by community observations on the event and Zenith's special edition timepiece.

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For the first time ever Swiss watch manufacturer Zenith partnered with the prestiguous and well-known Ennstal Classic vintage car rally as its official timekeeper. The event not only attracts exactly 189 prestigious and timeless classic cars but also motorsport celebrities including Sir Stirling Moss (British Formula One racing driver), Derek Bell (Brtitish 5 times Le Mans winner), Richard Charlesworth (Director of Bentley Royal and V.I.P. relations and head of the Bentley Heritage division), Rauno Aaltonen (former Finnish professional rally driver), Hans-Joachim Stuck (German Formula One racing driver), Dieter Quester (Austrian touring car racing driver), Hans Knauß (former Austrian alpine skier) and last but not least AC/DC's Brian Johnson.

The rally passed through Austria's most beautiful alpine regions located in Styria, and thus is regularly a feast for all senses, eyes, ears and nose. Here are a few impressions:

The Start, as always, is in the small city of Gröbming.



... with Zenith executing its core duty with professional aptitude:





From there, the teams passed through small villages, ...


(#47: Aston Martin DB2/4 Drophead Coupé MK1 1955)


(#54: Triumph TR2 Le Mans 1955)



(#15: Delahaye 135cs 1937; #17: BMW 328 1939)


(#41: Jaguar XK 140 OTS SE 1954)







(#148: Jaguar E-Type 1972; #150: BMW 2002 Alpina 1968)

... crossed alpine passes...


(#114: Porsche 356 SC 1964)


(#41: Jaguar XK 140 OTS SE 1954)




(#14 Cadillac Series 60 Sport Coupé 1936)


(#58: Jaguar XK 140 DHC 1956; #73: Porsche 356 A Speedster 1958)
 
(#23: Veritas RS 1948; #29: Jaguar XK 120 1951)


(#6: Bugatti T51 1931)


(#100: Ferrari 250 GTO 1962)

... with their archetypical fauna:


(#52: Peugeot 203C 1955)

A highlight certainly was the sight of Mauterndorf castle, in the middel ages used as an important toll station for trans-alpine commerce, and in the 13th century also as a summer residence for the arch bishop of Salzburg:


(#: Volvo P 1800 ES 1972; #195: Ferrari 246 GT Dino 1972; #184 VW Karmann Ghia Coupé 1971)


(#11: Alvis Silver Eagle 1934)


(#25: Healey Silverstone 1949)
 
(#30: Alfa Romeo Sprint Coupé 1952)


(#35: Aston Martin DB 2/4 1954)

Glamorous meeting of all participants at the market square of the city of Steyr:


(#72: Mercedes-Benz 220 S Ponton Coupé 1958)



All accross the track, participants were met with enthusiastic Austrian hospitality...


(#136: Alfa Romeo GTA 1966; courtesy of Brian Johnson)

... local cuisine...



.. and for those who survived the former, also Austrian indigenous folk music:



Happy faces in Zenith's VIP lounge, amongst the guests are Rauno Aaltonen (back left; former Finnish professional rally driver), Hans-Joachim Stuck (back 2. left; German Formula One racing driver), Dieter Quester (back 2. left; Austrian touring car racing driver), Alexander Seidl, CEO Zentih Austria & CEE (back 4. left), Sir Stirling Moss (back 4. right; British Formula One racing driver), as well as Hans Knauß (front 2. right, former Austrian alpine skier).



Overall, a fantastic entry for Zenith in this prestiguous classic car rally, with a spotless performance of the official timekeeper!


(#40: Jaguar XK 140 OTS 1954)
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But wait: Zenith was far from done, the manufacturer had some more to show:



The Zenith Chronomaster Ennstal Classic was the dedicated watch for the rally, presented in a limited edition of 24 pieces, ...



... of which a fraction was already resented to the winners of Ennstal Classic.



More real life images below in this thread...

Magnus




This message has been edited by Ornatus-Mundi on 2016-08-08 02:33:44

About the Automotive Ref. P1800

The P1800 is a distinctive model within the Automotive brand's offerings, recognized for its particular design language and mechanical configuration. This reference is often noted for its specific aesthetic choices that set it apart from other contemporary vehicles produced by the marque. Its introduction marked a notable point in the brand's design evolution, appealing to a segment of enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and visual character. The P1800's enduring presence in the classic car community underscores its unique position.

This model features a body constructed from steel, contributing to its robust and durable nature. The vehicle's dimensions are characteristic of its era, balancing interior space with exterior proportions. Power is delivered by an internal combustion engine, with early examples utilizing a B18 engine. The vehicle's mechanical layout is conventional for its period, designed for reliability and ease of maintenance, which has contributed to its longevity and appeal among collectors and restorers. The driving experience is often described as engaging, reflecting the engineering priorities of its time.

The P1800 appeals to collectors interested in classic European sports coupes, particularly those who appreciate the brand's history and engineering. Its various iterations and engine specifications provide different points of interest for enthusiasts. The model's design has maintained a consistent following, making it a recognizable and sought-after vehicle in the classic car market. Its role in the brand's heritage is significant, representing a period of design and mechanical development.

Specifications

Caliber
B18 (early models)
Case
Steel
Crystal
Glass

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
OR
Ornatus-Mundi
Aug 5, 2016
Zenith's Special Edition Chronomaster Ennstal Classic

No watch manufacturer can miss the opportunity to create a dedicated watch to its sponsored events, particularly when the partnership includes a timekeeping component such as in the case of car rallies. Zenith's alliance with the Ennstal Classic is no exception, and thus here it is, the Zenith Chronomaster Ennstal Classic Special Edition (limitation: 24 pieces): The overall design has little to differentiate the timepiece from the current production Chronomaster, it comes in the same 42mm steel

HO
Horology75
Aug 7, 2016
Thanks for the interesting coverage !

Br,

AN
Anatol
Aug 8, 2016
Great photos!

Hi Magnus, thank you for the excellent photos of the Ennstal Classic. I participated with my daughter and we had a great time, with lovely scenery and very nice participants. Zenith presented the ltd Cairelli re-edition at the Ennstal Classic which will hit the shops in autumn. A lovely watch and everyone who gets one of the 1000 pieces will be very happy indeed! If the Ennstal special edition Zenith had not had those holes in the dial, I might have bought it! As it is, I was happy with my new C

OR
Ornatus-Mundi
Aug 8, 2016
Porsche 911S #153?

Great you enjoyed this event and thanks for the flowers. as for the 1000 pieces, I have seen this watch and I am waiting for the ok to share the images... Cheers, Magnus

AN
Anatol
Aug 8, 2016
Yes, indeed, #153!

I took a quick iPhone pic of the Cairelli-re-edition but thought it might still be under embargo even though it was quite publicly shown...

OR
Ornatus-Mundi
Aug 8, 2016
but Anatol, do you have some 'dashboard' views from the rally to share with us? That would be fascinating! [nt]

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