Introducing: The Futuristic CIGA Design Z Series Hunter Automatic Skeleton
When I think of CIGA Design, the first thing that immediately comes to mind is the brand’s highly successful Blue Planet. The watch is not only instantly recognizable, but it has also won numerous prizes. Still, there is another side to the CIGA Design that is far more modern and futuristic. The new Z Series Hunter Automatic Skeleton fits the popular profile of brands like Richard Mille, Hublot, and Bianchet. However, the Hong Kong-based brand offers a similar aesthetic at a far more affordable price. Let’s check out the new CIGA Design Z Series Hunter Automatic Skeleton.
When I first opened the press kit, I was immediately intrigued. The great thing about these styles is that there is a great sense of freedom in designing these watches. While the rudimentary shape is leading, there is a lot of freedom to play with the shapes, angles, and proportions. For the new Z Series Hunter, CIGA Design chose an octagonal tonneau-shaped case. While it is a classic shape, the way it is designed and constructed firmly roots it in modern times. Add a skeletonized look, three modern finishes, and an in-house caliber, and this becomes a rather remarkable creation.
The specs of the CIGA Design Z Series Hunter Automatic Skeleton
Let’s kick things off with the remarkable case design. It is a three-part construction characterized by modern angular lines. I quite like the case’s sculptural presence. It’s bold and in your face, but it reveals plenty of detail when zooming in on the different elements.
The case has a 43mm diameter, 48mm length, and 12.1mm thickness. It weighs only 69.8 grams, which is fairly lightweight, especially considering it is stainless steel. Furthermore, the case features a DLC coating for improved scratch resistance and is offered in classic silver, modern carbon, and minimalist black.
The case finishing adds to the visual drama with micro-sandblasted surfaces and polished, chamfered edges, creating a dynamic contrast of textures and finishes that I like. CIGA Design paired it with a tapering 22mm H-link bracelet that matches the finish of the case and features a butterfly clasp.
Once again, the overall micro-sandblasted finish gives the watch a matte look. However, the polished chamfers on the individual links also add a visual sparkle. The combination of the case and bracelet creates a modern canvas for the skeletonized dial and caliber.
The skeletonized dial with the in-house caliber CD-07
As you can see, the Z Series Hunter does not feature a traditional dial. Underneath the sapphire crystal, you will find an open-worked dial that offers excellent views of the brand-new skeletonized caliber CD-07. This 24-jewel automatic caliber operates at 28,800vph and offers a 40-hour power reserve and accuracy between -15 and +25 seconds per day. Plus, its skeletonized look perfectly fits the overall aesthetic.
As you can see, the darker carbon and black versions feature bridges in the same darker shade as the case, nicely contrasting with the rest of the movement. Additionally, the silver version offers a more monochromatic overall aesthetic. Caliber CD-07 features hollowed, drilled, and polished chamfered edges. The 120-degree anchor-shaped rotor and the balance wheel have the same micro-blasted satin finish as the case and the bridges. It brilliantly shows the integral development of the caliber and the overall design of the watch.
Contrasting details ensure the practicality of the Z Series Hunter Automatic Skeleton
The light, skeletonized hands contrast with the open-worked dial. They all feature light green lumed tips that correspond with the light green lumed markers at 3, 9, and 12 o’clock. This ensures that once you close the hidden clasp and turn the wrist to look at the watch, you can easily read the time. And if you ever want to change the bracelet for a strap, that is easy to do thanks to the quick-release system.
All in all, this is another remarkable creation by CIGA Design that stands out immediately. The modern sports watch features plenty of remarkable details that make it stand out immediately. All three watches are available now for US$499 on the brand’s official website. Considering what you get for the money, that is an awesome price. A watch designed with a great eye for detail, an in-house caliber, and a well-thought-out mix of finishes. It’s hard to beat the CIGA Design Z Series Hunter at this price point if you are in the market for a modern sports watch like this. So kudos to CIGA Design for another remarkable release.
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