BIG ZERO BLACK O296

Distinctively minimalist yet brimming with character, the Raketa Big Zero Black watch is effortlessly stylish on the wrist. A timepiece that recalls the 1980s retro styling of a legacy piece within the Raketa portfolio, the model features functional, bold indices and numerals, with the company’s iconic ‘zero’ at the 12. Not limited to its harmonious aesthetics, the Big Zero Black enjoys the advantage of a precision mechanical automatic movement, crafted entirely in-house.

Established in 1721, in the Russian city of Saint Petersburg, the massive production facility which today is known as the Raketa Manufacture is the oldest factory in the country. With a name that translates as ‘Rocket’, Raketa have experienced a stellar rise in popularity with watch collectors around the world, who have discovered the unique and distinctively cool collections of this exciting independent maker.

The Raketa Big Zero Black edition is presented in a 40mm cushion style watch case manufactured from stainless steel. Beautifully executed, its curved profile is enhanced with brushed and polished finishes, and set behind the logo of its crown, a synthetic ruby stone adds a flash of colour.

Crisply styled, the matte black dial and quirky outsize indices and numerals have a remarkable three-dimensional aspect. Positioned at the 12 o’clock the emblematic ‘zero’ is accompanied by generously proportioned numerals at each quarter, with prominent triangular indices arranged in five minute increments. Robust in form, the hours and minutes hands are complemented by a needle-like seconds hand, and with a liberal coating of luminescent material, the indications emit an incredible glow after dark.

On turning the piece over, the company’s symbolic red colour tone is reflected in the eye catching vivid finish on the rotor, which is decorated with laser etched waves. Manufactured in-house, the automatic Calibre 2615 runs at 18’000 vib/h, and has a reserve of power of 40 hours.

A model that is displays the signature nuances of this distinguished watchmaking atelier, the Raketa Big Zero Black edition is a superb proposition. The model comes presented upon a black leather strap, lined with red and secures to the wrist with a stainless steel pin buckle.