Zenith Pilot Cronometro Tipo CP-2 Flyback – Once Limited Edition, Now Series Production. Photo: Jonathan Ho

In October 2016, Zenith released a limited edition re-issue of its famous 1960s Cairelli chronograph issued to the Italian military; outside SIHH 2018, the Zenith Pilot Cronometro Tipo CP-2 Flyback makes a comeback, a contemporary interpretation of vintage Pilot chronograph updated with brand new case materials and new functionality.

For 2018, the Guiding Star revives its famous 1960s Cairelli chronograph with the Zenith Pilot Cronometro TIPO CP-2 FLYBACK, available in a choice of bronze or aged stainless steel with new aesthetic elements.

Zenith Pilot Cronometro Tipo CP-2 Flyback – Once Limited Edition, Now Series Production

The Heritage Cronometro Tipo CP-2 launched in 2016, was itself inspired by an exceptional military and horological treasure within the archives of the Le Locle Manufacture – as history would have it, the original military chronograph created throughout a decade from the mid-1960s on, was commissioned by the Italian Army through the Italian dealership A. Cairelli in Rome. ‘CP’ stands for cronometro di polso (wrist chronometer). Due to its high demand, the 2,500 units of the Italian military issue Cairelli chronograph has managed to command stellar prices at auction and on the vintage resale market. Zenith’s subsequent Limited Edition Heritage Cronometro Tipo CP-2 too was sold out 50 years after the legend and today, the Star releases the new Zenith Pilot Cronometro TIPO CP-2 Flyback, now equipped with an automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph with flyback function.

The new Zenith Pilot Cronometro TIPO CP-2 Flyback, now equipped with an automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph with flyback function. Photo: Jonathan Ho

Slightly under 13mm, this new 2018 revival of the famous Cairelli chronograph from the 60s is designed for men and women, though those with smaller wrists might still find the choice of 43mm bronze or aged stainless steel case still a bit daunting. Nevertheless, the 2018 Zenith Pilot Cronometro TIPO CP-2 Flyback exudes all its intrepid heritage DNA, coupled with demanding technical specifications in terms of reliability, indications, readability, and robustness in every situation of its Zenith’s own watchmaking philosophy and the raison d’etre of the original military requirements.

Furthermore, the Le Locle manufacture suppressed the urge to include a more commercially oriented date complication and created a 43mm heritage military pilot’s chronograph that even watch purists would give credit where credit is due. This historic chronograph reproduction features hands designed to ensure perfect readability even in tough conditions; bezel enabling reliable and accurate handling; easily accessible and buttery-smooth responsive pushers, all signature characteristics required of military grade instruments.

The famous Zenith El Primero chronograph calibre returns, where the 2016 Zenith Cronometro Tipo CP 2 uses the 4069 automatic chronograph caliber, itself similar to the El Primero. The new 2018 Zenith Pilot Cronometro TIPO CP-2 Flyback uses the ruggedly reliable El Primero 405B version of the movement with flyback function. As with all variants of the El Primero, it bears signature  high beat frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour.

Zenith Pilot Cronometro Tipo CP-2 Flyback Price, Specs and Availability

Case 43mm Bronze or aged stainless steel with 100m water resistance
Movement Automatic El Primero 405B flyback chronograph calibre with 50 hours power reserve
Strap Rubber lined Brown oily nubuck strap for bronze or green oil nubuck strap for aged stainless steel
Price US$7,600
Available from Feb 2018