“If Zenith were a car it would definitely be a Range Rover,” avers Zenith CEO Julien Tornare.
In celebration of the Swiss watchmaker’s creative partnership with British car manufacturer Land Rover, the pair is launching a sophisticated timepiece inspired by the next-generation Range Rover Evoque.
Chronomaster El Primero Range Rover Velar (of the Defy Classic collection) honours the latest Evoque in timeless Zenith style, mirroring the automotive’s infusion of innovative city living and country simplicity.
“A key component of the new Evoque is desirability,” Land Rover Chief Design Officer Gerry McGovern says. “The new Zenith Defy Classic Range Rover watch represents a step change in collaborative watch design, the result being a highly desirable timepiece and a fitting tribute to the Zenith and Land Rover collaboration.”
With 2,333 chronometry prizes to its name since 1865, Zenith found inspiration for its new watch through the distinguished Evoque wheel. The quilted upholstery of the premium SUV is also reflected through the diamond motif gracing the rubber watchband, to create a chic yet sporty timepiece.
The 41mm Zenith chronograph boasts a characterful design as it indulges in modern and graphic interpretation, like the Evoque.
Hints of the newest British off-roader flow through the watch. From the Arctic Petrol (turquoise blue) hue to the seconds hand and oscillating weight inspired by the vehicle’s steering wheel and seats, no detail has been overlooked.
“Zenith and Range Rover share the same values as well as a number of key assets including charisma, technical refinement and remarkable performance,” Tornare says. “Both have innovation in their DNA.
“The Defy and the Range Rover are both desirable, luxurious trademarks and pioneering cornerstones of their industries – objects with which there is an immediate emotional connection.
“Both are inspired by the past, while looking firmly to the future.”
Designers and technical engineers worked to produce 200 limited-edition watches – making the Chronomaster El Primero Range Rover Velar a perfect addition for any motoring or chronograph aficionado.
“The new Zenith Defy Classic Range Rover watch represents a step change in collaborative watch design, the result being a highly desirable timepiece and a fitting tribute to the Zenith and Land Rover collaboration,” – Gerry McGovern
This is not the first time the two luxury brands have joined forces to create spectacular watches. Zenith unveiled the El Primero Range Rover Special Edition in 2016 to celebrate the iconic year of 1969.
The legendary manufacturers launched the special edition chronograph to mark the year Zenith first unveiled its fabled El Primero watch. That same year, Land Rover introduced the first prototype of its luxury off-road vehicle.
A passionate pioneering spirit fuels the British car manufacturer and the Swiss watchmaker to continue producing sophisticated pieces while exploring new horizons.
As one of the youngest CEOs in the luxury watch industry, find out what Julien Tornare is doing to leave his mark on Zenith.