Zenith Montre D'Aéronef Type 20 GMT Review

Evosam provides a comprehensive review of his new Zenith Montre D'Aéronef Type 20 GMT, offering a detailed look at its design, wearability, and unique GMT functionality. His insights cover everything from the watch's impressive lume and comfortable strap to its comparison with other pilot watches, making this a valuable resource for potential owners.

I've been lusting after this piece ever since I saw the original previews that were posted online back in Jan as part of a private SIHH showing. The new Type 20 line is really well done, but the piece that really sung to me was the GMT model. I was a little concerned about the size when reading the spec sheet since it does seem like an very large case for me. I know the SE Type 20 from last yr is much much bigger, but in this new line and for my 6.5 inch wrist, 48mm seemed big. 

I actually had the Red Baron on order, but had told my AD to call me as soon as they got any of the GMT models in. I was also in two minds about which version to get. Stylistically, I preferred the SS piece, but the Red Baron's stealthiness and Ti construction were also a consideration and could sway me that direction too...

Well, after getting the call, going to the store and handling the SS version, I knew I had to have this version. The contrast of the metal, the different finishes of brushed vs polished and just the feel of the watch are just so right. It is a big watch, but because of the way Zenith designed the case with the super short and angled lugs, it's actually fits and sits on my wrist better than my IWC big Pilot. Also, the nice flat bottom ensures that the piece doesn't roll around at all. 

The crown is very very comfortable, it's super nicely shaped and almost organic in how smooth it is, even if it knocks against the back of my wrist at times. 

The movement is buttery smooth, and with the torque that's created when using that massive onion crown, the watch is very very easy to wind. I believe the movement is a Zenith cal693 elite automatic movement with a 50hr+ PR. Either way, the movement seems solid and accuracy has been good thus far. 

The dial is the sweet spot for this watch...there is so much lume on it, it glows like a lighthouse. Also the contrast of the dial, the font used for the numerals and the shapes of the hands all come together in a very aesthetically harmonious package. 

Finally, there's the strap. Thank you Zenith for really taking the time and sourcing a phenomenally good strap for this watch. The color of the leather is amazing, the quality and thickness of it are as good or better than any Panerai strap I've owned, and the rubber backing makes it very comfortable. While we're talking about the backs of things, the back of the Zenith is nice as well, with a gorgeous engraving adorning the backside of the watch. 

Finally for comparison, here is a side by side next to my IWC Big Pilot 5002, which dial-wise looks smaller when compared with the wide expanse of the Zenith dial... 

I think this is going to be a real hit for Zenith. None of their other watches have really stirred as much emotion or desire as this pilot line of watches for me. In my opinion, the overall execution, finish of this Type 20 GMT is just so well done. They've got a great balance between forging their own style and building something that seems to be worth the amount they are charging for it. It's not a cheap watch by any means, but it feels like it's at the right VALUE point for what you get, which can't be said for many new watches these days...

Cheers 

-Sam