When shopping for a timepiece there are always tough choices. Unlike the auto industry, where their are only so many cars per segment, the watch industry is flooded with options. One of the toughest watches to decide on is a dress piece. Classic and simple, a dress watch can only variate so much. One brand that has shown its horological chops as well as maintained affordability in this segment is Zenith.
At the ideal modern dress size of 40mm, Zenith’s standout release from Basel 2014 is the Synopsis. Keeping its design to two hands and a seconds tri-hand subdial, the Synopsis has dropped right into the dress watch segment, but with a twist. Exposed is the beating heart of the famous El Primero chronograph movement.
The El Primero is regarded as one-of if not the best chronograph movement on the market. Zenith has taken their flagship chronograph and removed the chronograph. Still beating at a healthy 36,000bpm, the start, stop, and counter function of the chronograph has been removed leaving only the beauty of its exposed movement window and famed accuracy. This clears the dial of clutter aside from the prominent exposed movement which gives this piece the appearance of a high priced tourbillon.
The Synopsis is offered in a rose gold case as well as stainless steel and can be paired with both a crocodile strap or metal bracelet. This piece is a horophiles dream. Purist movement, exhibition case back and exposed escapement, well sized, and well priced. When choosing a dress watch, we no longer have to pick a brand name to have atop a plain dial. The Synopsis is a standout offered with no sacrifice.
