The DNA of a "Pilot" watch & the last mechanical military watch ever made - Zenith Rainbow Flyback

The Zenith Big Date Flyback Chronograph features design cues from the Rainbow Flyback Chronograph with the more subtle tri-colour chapter ring for the Chronograph register at 3 o'clock. Commissioned in the 1990s by the French Air Force, with specs following what the Military needed, the name Rainbow is derived from the Champion Yacht which won the 15th America Cup in 1934.

The Big Date Flyback Chronograph comes in two variants; a brushed steel version and a ceramic case version, which doesn't feature the tri-colour chapter ring for Chronograph register. If I have to choose one, I would go for the ceramic version with its monochromatic look and feel.

The iconic Al-Primero 3652 high-frequency movement (36,000 VpH) powers the Big Date Flyback Chronograph, offering an exceptionally high-performance, daily beater.

The word "Pilot" on the dial is something that only Zenith is allowed to do since they own the trademark for the word in French in 1888, and in English since 1904. The first pilot were the Wright brothers, who took flight in 1903, so whoever applied for the trademark in Zenith at that time, is a genius.

Which one would you choose if you can only choose one? Let's talk about Zenith's Pilot Watches and Rainbows.

credit:
Rolex Daytona from Emilyn (Instagram @ femalewatchcollector)