Zenith Espada watches

The 40mm wide Espada may be an entry level model but buyers will be excited to note that it is still powered by an in-house El Primero 4650b with a 50 hour power reserve, 22 jewels and a decorated rotor that can be seen through the sapphire case back.

Furthermore, the 4560b beats at a watch-nerd approved and silky smooth 36,000 vph (5 Hz). Zenith has a total of eight different variations which make use of steel or rose gold for the cases and a range of dials that even includes diamond-clad versions.

  For comparison, consider the 41mm Rolex Datejust II 116334 retails for $8600 USD and features very similar kit, save for its white gold bezel. The Espada, with its combination of an El Primero movement, Zenith’s craftsmanship and a luxurious yet reserved design, is a great-looking sleeper that we would be proud to wear.

The conservative in us really likes the base steel model with the black dial and its teal accents (ref 03.2170.4650/21.M2170).With many brands producing limited editions with multiple complications and cases made exclusively from precious metals, it is refreshing to see a brand as revered as Zenith reaching out to those who prefer their watches in steel and designed to tell the time in a simple and predictable manner.

Pricing for the Espada starts at €5000 ($6525 USD) and will range as high as €22,400 ($29,200 USD) for the all gold version. Cheap? Hardly, but if you’re in the market for a beautiful Swiss three-hander with an in-house movement and good heritage then Zenith has priced the Espada to have excellent value in the marketplace.