In what is becoming a procession of the finer watch brands in the world, Harrods is once again playing host to a watch company that is celebrating 150 years since foundation this year! And what better way to throw a birthday party in London than holding it at Harrods: the Iconic London store. For the next month, you can visit the area near Door 9 at Harrods Brompton Road entrance to see Zenith watch models, both old and new (some of the models have come from the manufacture’s museum), as well as a Lancia Stratos (for the Tour Auto) and a watchmaker who is on hand to show people the precision with which Zenith movements are constructed.





As befitting any notable milestone in terms of years since foundation, where the manufacture is still in the original building in Le Locle, there are special editions to celebrate two English institutions! The first is a Zenith El Primero Harrods Special Edition. A special strap and dial, as well as a particular crystal for the case back. Refined and discrete as befits the store after which it was named. Just love the star that is part of the rotor on the back of the watch. Although 150 examples of the watch will be made, numbers 1 through 10 are only available at Harrods.





The second is the Zenith El Primero Rolling Stones edition. Zenith have become the official watch for the Rolling Stones tour and to celebrate this fact, they have produced an El Primero with a DLC black titanium case, black dial, and special strap with a union jack embossed near the lugs. Once again, this is also a limited edition of 1000 copies.





The opening event was well attended, and the new Zenith CEO Aldo Magada was on hand to answer questions and greet people. For me, the real plus point was the incorporation of some of the watches from Zenith’s past into the pop-up Boutique. The designs reflected particularly well on the large pilots watch. There were several variations available including the much sought after bronze case. There is also a Zenith Academy Christophe Colomb Tribute to Felix Baumgartner for sale within the Boutique; one of only ten available.



For anyone interested in Zenith watches, or really just interested in watches, and are in London, I would recommend the short detour to Harrods to see the pop-up shop and exhibition.







Andrew H This message has been edited by 219 on 2015-05-14 08:07:10