Technical Archive

Zenith
Pilot 03.2435.679/51.I012— lug 20mm

Zenith Pilot 03.2435.679/51.I012: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Pilot Type 20 Blueprint

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Zenith 03.2435.679/51.I012
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

Browse 20mm straps →
Reference

03.2435.679/51.I012

Movement

Zenith caliber Elite 679 Hours, Minutes, Seconds

The Heritage

The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special 03.2435.679/51.I012 is a modern reinterpretation of the legendary 1940s Type 20 aviator watch, maintaining the authentic tool characteristics of original cockpit instruments. The stainless steel case measures 45 mm in diameter with integrated lugs fixed at 20 mm width, accommodating the Elite 679 automatic movement offering 50 hours of power reserve. Water resistance reaches 100 metres, confirming its aeronautical rather than diving-focused design.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Zenith Pilot Type 20 03.2435.679/51.I012?

The Zenith Pilot Type 20 03.2435.679/51.I012 has an integrated lug width of 20 millimeters. This width is specific to the case attachment and non-negotiable: it measures the distance between the two holes where the strap connects to verify exact compatibility of any aftermarket strap.

Which strap material pairs best with the Zenith Pilot 03.2435.679/51.I012?

For the Pilot Type 20 we recommend American alligator (chocolate brown or smoke grey) for vintage-avionic aesthetics, chrome-tanned calf for enduring elegance, or grey/sand NATO for military authenticity. All materials should feature matte texture and accept natural patina over time, maintaining coherence with the technical character of the case.

How do you change the strap on a Zenith Pilot Type 20 with integrated lugs?

The Type 20's integrated lugs do not allow easy changes with household tools: the operation requires a specialist watchmaker who extracts the metal lugs from the case using specialized equipment. To minimize risk, entrust the job to experienced professionals. The Casati Milano atelier offers this service with warranty.

Can I use aftermarket straps compatible with the Zenith Pilot 03.2435.679/51.I012?

Yes, provided they strictly respect the 20 millimeter width and are crafted by specialized artisans. Ready-to-ship straps available on milanostraps.it offer varieties of certified compatible materials; for an even more personalized experience, Casati Milano creates bespoke straps by directly measuring your lugs.

How long does a leather strap last on a watch like the Zenith Pilot 03.2435.679/51.I012?

A chrome-tanned alligator strap of artisan quality lasts 4-6 years with moderate daily use; more robust calf reaches 5-7 years. Longevity depends on rotation with other straps, climate, and personal perspiration. Casati Milano straps include an 18-month warranty against manufacturing defects and use certified tanneries to maximize durability.

The next step

The right strap isn’t chosen. It is built, together.

From the atelier appointment to delivery, every step is made for those who know that things done well take time. Rare leathers, one piece at a time, eighteen months of warranty.

Request an appointment →

By appointment only · Milan

The atelier's website: casatimilano.com