Tag Archives: Chronomaster

ZENITH BLUE CERAMIC CHRONOGRAPH TRILOGY – 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Posted on by
Reply

In celebration of its 160th anniversary, ZENITH proudly unveils an exceptional trio of watches reimagined in monochromatic blue, the Maison’s signature colour. Three of the most emblematic ZENITH chronographs will be offered in blue ceramic specially developed for the occasion: a CHRONOMASTER Sport, a DEFY Skyline Chronograph and a PILOT Chronograph. Available in exclusive limited editions of 160 pieces each, they can be purchased individually or in a special anniversary box set.

Legend has it that the ZENITH name was inspired by a bright, night sky full of stars. This vision came to its founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, as a reference to the highest point reached by a celestial body in the sky, symbolizing the heights of excellence to which he aspired. Since then, the Maison has been driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection in every aspect of the watchmaking art. In line with this vision and reflecting the infinity of the skies, blue has become ZENITH’s signature colour.

Durable, lightweight, soft to the touch, highly scratch-resistant, and biocompatible, ceramic is an exceptional yet demanding material. It can be produced in a vast array of colours and, unlike metals that rely on surface coatings, it is integrally coloured, which contributes to its unique sheen and depth. While producing black and white ceramic is relatively straightforward, creating a new and specific shade, such as the ZENITH’s blue, is a delicate and complex endeavor requiring months of development. Shaping and finishing ceramic components is equally challenging, demanding advanced techniques. Despite these complexities, ZENITH takes pride in finishing its ceramic watches with the same meticulous attention to detail as its gold or steel timepieces.

This new blue ceramic hue is being introduced simultaneously across three of ZENITH’s most emblematic chronographs as part of the Maison’s 160th anniversary. Released in limited editions of 160 pieces each, these watches can be purchased individually or as a set in a special anniversary box—to which the G.F.J can be added.

All three watches are available exclusively through the Maison’s physical and online boutiques, as well as authorized retailers worldwide.

“Blue has always been a defining element of ZENITH’s identity, symbolizing our connection to the sky and the pioneering spirit that has driven us for 160 years. To mark this milestone, we wanted to give our signature color a new dimension through a trilogy of ceramic chronographs. More than a tribute to our heritage, these timepieces embody the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that continue to shape the future of our Maison. We are proud to celebrate this anniversary with such a bold and meaningful creation.” Benoît de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH WATCHES.

PILOT BIG DATE FLYBACK 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Introduced in 2023, the ZENITH PILOT is the result of the Maison’s enduring fascination with aviation. Georges Favre-Jacot, the Maison’s founder, filed a trademark for the French term “Pilote” as early as 1888 and for the English term “Pilot” in 1904. ZENITH soon became a prominent manufacturer of pilot watches and dashboard instruments, with its timepieces accompanying remarkable individuals who dared to dream big and achieve the impossible, including Louis Blériot, the first person to fly across the English Channel in 1909.
As the Maison celebrates its 160th anniversary, the PILOT Big Date Flyback is unveiled in a striking monochrome blue version, featuring a matching case, dial, and strap. Crafted from micro-blasted ceramic in a new, bright blue shade, the 42.5 mm case is complemented by a titanium crown and rectangular push-pieces. The hands and large Arabic numerals on the corrugated dial are coated with luminescent material, ensuring optimal legibility under all conditions.

Powering the PILOT Big Date Flyback Edition 160th anniversary edition is the El Primero 3652 calibre—an evolution of ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency automatic chronograph. This movement integrates both a big date and a flyback function. The big date display, with two large digits, guarantees exceptional readability, while a patented compliant mechanism enables the date to change in just 0.007 seconds. True to pilot chronograph traditions, the flyback function allows pilots to reset and restart the chronograph with a single push, streamlining calculations during flight by eliminating the need for the conventional three-step start-stop-reset sequence. The movement, visible through the sapphire case back, is adorned with a customized rotor featuring a 160th-anniversary emblem.

This exclusive 160-piece limited edition is delivered with a blue Cordura-effect rubber strap and an additional white Cordura-effect strap, both secured with a steel triple-folding clasp. A user-friendly strap-change system enables quick and tool-free swapping, enhancing versatility and comfort.

DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Effortlessly bridging heritage and modernity, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph is a contemporary successor to the 1969 DEFY—a robust and daring model distinguished by its architectural case and multi-faceted bezel. Since its introduction in 2024, the collection has been offered in various steel versions. Now, in celebration of the brand’s 160th anniversary, it is reimagined with an even bolder aesthetic. For the first time, it is crafted entirely in ceramic, featuring ZENITH’s signature blue in a shade specifically developed by the brand. The deep hue of the faceted 42 mm case and bracelet is echoed on the dial, adorned with an engraved geometric motif inspired by the brand’s four-pointed star.
At its heart lies the El Primero 3600 calibre, a modern evolution of ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency chronograph, originally introduced in 2019. This movement uniquely displays 1/10th of a second with remarkable clarity, with the chronograph seconds hand completing a full revolution every 10 seconds—six times faster than the standard chronograph. Operating at a frequency of 5 Hz, it ensures precise 1/10th-of-a-second measurements aligned with the chapter ring’s graduations. A stop-seconds mechanism allows for accurate time setting, while the movement, visible through the sapphire case back, features a satin-brushed oscillating weight engraved with a “160th Anniversary” inscription.
Designed for ultimate versatility, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph Edition 160th anniversary edition incorporates a user-friendly quick strap-change system seamlessly integrated into the case. With a simple push of a button, the three-link ceramic bracelet can be effortlessly swapped for the accompanying star-patterned blue rubber strap, secured with a steel folding clasp.

CHRONOMASTER SPORT 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

The culmination of a unique legacy of chronographs, the CHRONOMASTER Sport showcases the brand’s mastery of high-frequency timekeeping in a sporty design that is contemporary yet unmistakably ZENITH. For the 160th anniversary of the Maison, the quintessential ZENITH sporty-chic chronograph is made available for the first time in blue ceramic. The lines of the sleek 41 mm case, with pump-style pushers and faceted lugs, are accented by alternating brushed and polished surfaces. Its striking blue hue extends to the lacquered-finished dial, which features the brand’s signature 3-6-9 tricolour overlapping counters. The faceted markers, along with the hour, minute, and second hands, are coated with luminescent material, while the chronograph hands are highlighted with a red tip.

The CHRONOMASTER Sport is powered by the El Primero 3600, the result of 56 years of refining ZENITH’s celebrated high-frequency chronograph. Operating at 36,000 vph, it delivers 1/10th of a second chronograph readings on its bezel as the central chronograph seconds hand completes one full rotation around the dial in just 10 seconds. Its intricate architecture is visible through the sapphire display case back, revealing the column wheel, horizontal clutch, and a special “160th Anniversary” openworked oscillating weight.
The CHRONOMASTER Sport 160th anniversary edition comes with two straps: a blue ceramic bracelet with a ceramic folding clasp and a blue rubber strap with a steel folding clasp.

 

PILOT BIG DATE FLYBACK 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Reference: 49.4002.3652/51.I009

Key points: Exclusive blue ceramic edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand.
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph with flyback function.
Patented Big Date at 6 o’clock.
Instantaneous Big Date jump in 0.007 sec (0.02 for discs jump & stabilization).
Stop-second mechanism.
Interchangeable strap system.
Movement: El Primero 3652 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes in the center. Small seconds at 9 o’clock
Instantaneous Big Date at 6 o’clock. Flyback Chronograph. 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock.
Finishes: Special “160th Anniversary” oscillating weight with satined finishings.
Price: 15’400 CHF / 16’500 Euros / 15’900 USD
Material: Blue microblasted ceramic.
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41mm / Thickness: 14.25 mm / Lug to lug: 52 mm
Dial: Blue dial with horizontal grooves.
Hour markers: Applied arabic numerals in SuperLuminova SLN C1.
Hands: Blue & white with SLN C1.
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps: Blue cordura effect rubber strap and a white cordura effect strap. Steel triple folding clasp.

 

DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Reference: 49.9502.3600/51.I001

Key points: Exclusive blue ceramic edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand.
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second.
Date indication. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown.
Full Interchangeable strap system. Stop-second mechanism.
Movement: El Primero 3600 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: 1/10th of a second chronograph functions. Hours and minutes in the center.
Small seconds at 9 o’clock.
Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds, 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock,
60-second counter at 3 o’clock. Date indication at 4:30 o’clock.
Finishes: Special “160th Anniversary” oscillating weight with satined finishings
Price: 22’900 CHF / 24’800 Euros / 23’800 USD
Material: Blue Ceramic
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 42mm / Thickness: 12.7 mm / Lug to lug: 47.4 mm
Dial: Blue-toned sunray starry sky pattern
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps: Blue ceramic bracelet with a double folding clasp and blue rubber strap with steel folding clasp.

 

CHRONOMASTER SPORT 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Reference: 49.3102.3600/51.M3100

Key points: Exclusive blue ceramic edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand.
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second.
Power reserve of 60 hours. Date indication at 4:30.
Stop-second mechanism.
Movement: El Primero 3600 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: 1/10th of a second chronograph functions. Hours and minutes in the center.
Small seconds at 9 o’clock.
Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds,
60-minute counter at 6 o’clock, 60-second counter at 3 o’clock.
Date indication at 4:30 o’clock
Finishes: Special “160th Anniversary” oscillating weight with satined finishings
Price: 21’900 CHF / 23’700 Euros / 22’700 USD
Material: Blue ceramic
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41mm / Thickness: 13.6 mm / Lug to lug: 47 mm
Dial: Blue-tones lacquered with three different-coloured counters
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps: Blue ceramic bracelet with ceramic folding clasp and blue rubber strap with steel folding clasp.

ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee

Posted on by
Reply

Hodinkee, the leading destination for all things watches and horology, has once again teamed up with luxury watch manufacturer ZENITH for their third collaboration. Together, they are announcing the launch of the ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee. A celebration of ZENITH’s legacy of innovation, the timepiece reinterprets the modern chronograph icon that is the ZENITH El Primero – and takes it to the next level.

For the first collaboration on the new CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar, Hodinkee saw a chance to create something truly special, knowing ZENITH is a brand unlike any other. One that is able to effortlessly marry the past, present, and future. Equipped with a new high-frequency caliber with a triple calendar and moon phase, the ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee is a tribute to a rare prototype El Primero from 1970. Nine years after production was halted, Zenith relaunched the ZENITH 3019 PHF this year, with the 1/10th of a second indication. Subtle in color but bold in material and movement, Hodinkee’s design honors the original prototype while complementing the incredible accuracy of the 1/10th chronograph of the El Primero. The resulting timepiece is a stunning juxtaposition between past and present, slow and fast, and old and new.

This watch demonstrates the strength and versatility of the initial El Primero design while providing a silhouette that feels like a modern, well-made, and purpose-driven chronograph. It features a stainless steel case measuring 38mm wide and 14mm thick and a case and dial enclosed with a raised sapphire crystal, calling to mind the acrylic crystals found on vintage El Primeros like the A386. Unique to the blue serial production disc and gold-plated indexes of current collection pieces, this timepiece features a specially produced black moonphase disc and rhodium-plated indexes. Additionally, the typically gold-plated chronograph hand has been swapped out for white with this model, further emphasizing the modern twist on this classic design. The watch is delivered on a stainless steel bracelet, and a leather strap with a pin and buckle is included to complete the look and feel of a modern high-performance sports watch.

Housed inside the case and entirely visible through the caseback, the most significant change lives inside. Released in early 2024, ZENITH’s new El Primero Caliber 3610 added a robust calendar movement to the existing El Primero Caliber 3600 by sharing the same high-beat rate and column- wheel design of the original El Primero movement, but with modern technical enhancements that ensure smooth running and reliability. For instance, the chronograph seconds hand traverses the dial once every ten seconds or six times per minute, a defining feature of Zenith’s iconic 1/10th of a second chronograph.

A dynamic black dial and ZENITH’s signature 4:30 date window serve as a balanced backdrop for the rest of the watch. When testing materials, Hodinkee and ZENITH looked to the past and incorporated slices of the Gibeon Meteorite—estimated to have formed 4.5 billion years ago within the molten core of an asteroid between Mars and Jupiter. This material features unique patterns as a result of meteorite cooling, meaning no two slices of meteorite, no two subdials, and no two ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee watches are alike.

”It’s always a pleasure to collaborate with the team at Hodinkee, a valued and long-standing partner of the brand. This watch embodies the epitome of sophistication, effortless , and timeless elegance in chronograph design. The subtle blend of vintage inspiration with the striking meteorite aesthetic makes it an undeniable winner.” – Romain Marietta, ZENITH Chief Products Officer.

“There are so few brands in this world with which we seek to work – let alone to work and collaborate on three separate occasions over the course of eight years. Zenith is one of the very few – and as one of our first ever collaborators in the space, one t hat means a great deal to us. The El Primero is an ideal canvas on which to create and iterate. It speaks to and honors the the brand, caliber, and indeed, entire Swiss industry’s history, while pushing the boundaries of what is possible from a materials perspective. In particular, with our 2024 collaboration, we’re doing something never done before, and used Zenith’s historic triple calendar caliber, and combining it with authentic and organic meteorite. Because Meteorite is naturally occurring, no two watches will be alike, and that makes this limited edition even more special. I could not be more excited about this launch. “ Ben Clymer, Founder of
Hodinkee

The ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Limited Edition for Hodinkee is available as a 200-piece limited edition for $13,500. The first 75 pieces will be available for purchase in the HODINKEE Shop, and 125 pieces for sale as of October 9th on ZENITH’s e-commerce platform.

Technical Specifications:

ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee

● Reference: 03.3401.3610/21.M3200
● Function: Complete calendar (Day, date, month), moon phase; chronograph that measures to 1/10th of a second (rotates fully around dial every 10 seconds)
● Material: Finely brushed & polished steel
● Dimensions: 38mm wide, 19mm lug width, 14mm thick, 46mm lug-to-lug
● Crystal: Sapphire
● Dial: Black dial with meteorite subdials. Rhodium-plated hands and metal-applied indexes
● Lume: Superluminova C1
● Caseback: Exhibition caseback with custom engravings, “One of 200”
● Caliber: 3610, Manufacture ZENITH
● Power Reserve: 60 hours
● Water Resistance: 50M/5ATM
● Bracelet/Strap: Black calfskin leather with pin buckle + stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp
● Manufactured: Switzerland

About Hodinkee
Hodinkee is building a better world of watches. Founded in 2008 by Benjamin Clymer as a watch blog, Hodinkee is now a multi-channel online destination for watch enthusiasts, including print, digital, and video content, an e-commerce platform as an authorized retailer of over 40+ brands in every style and price point, along with a wide assortment of pre-owned and vintage watches, and best-in-class services like Hodinkee Insurance. With years of experience and expertise, Hodinkee’s work brings every aspect of the watch world to life through color-rich journalism, meticulous engineering of Limited Edition timepieces, and curation of the most extensive assortment of watch brands and accessories to shop. As a true destination for everything watch-related, Hodinkee has built a dedicated community that’s brought the brand to the forefront. Headquartered in NYC, visit www.hodinkee.com

Hidden in plain sight: Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror

Posted on by
Reply

An unexplained watchmaking phenomenon has entered our atmosphere. ZENITH unveils an unprecedented and conceptual take on its staple 1/100th of a second chronograph, reimagined as a mirroring camouflage: Meet the DEFY Extreme Mirror.

The ultimate ultramodern camouflage watch has arrived. A monolithic object that reflects all light and colours – yet has no colours of its own. A form so geometrically outstanding but finished in such a way that it blends right in with its surroundings. An engine that operates at such a high-frequency rate, it’s nothing short of astounding. The DEFY Extreme line is not only inspired by the elements but also built to adapt and blend into them. With the DEFY Extreme Mirror, ZENITH is exploring a totally new expression of its most rugged chronograph to date that seemingly blends reality and our perception of our surroundings.

Shrouded in mystery and intrigue, the DEFY Extreme Mirror evokes some kind of UFO that has masked its arrival on our planet. With its fully mirror-polished metal exterior, the earth, the sky and the entire horizon are reflected without distortion. Paradoxically, the DEFY Extreme Mirror is at once eye-catching and stealthy. It doesn’t attempt to hide in its surroundings but blends in completely by reflecting it entirely from its gleaming surface. The highly angular case, as well as its integrated bracelet, are crafted in stainless steel, which are then immaculately mirror-polished all over for a chrome-like appearance.

 

And it’s not just the case that’s mirrored. The open multi-layered dial features a central element in sapphire crystal with a metallic mirrored finish that’s translucent yet reflective. The 1/100th of a second chronograph scale features satin-brushed metallic elements, keeping the dial easy to read while maintaining the fluid, all-metal theme.

Partially visible through the open dial as well as the sapphire case back is the world’s fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production, offering 1/100th of a second time measurements by means of two independent escapements beating at the rates of 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph function. For the DEFY Extreme Mirror, the star-shaped winding rotor is finished in a silvery-grey metallic tone to match the case and dial elements.

Completing the look of this intriguing piece are the supplied durable black Velcro strap and rubber strap, which can be easily swapped with the steel bracelet using the quick strap-change mechanism on the back of the case.

The DEFY Extreme Mirror is available at ZENITH physical and online boutiques as well as authorized retailers around the world.

 

ZENITH: TIME TO REACH YOUR STAR.

ZENITH exists to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and make them come true – against all odds. Since its establishment in 1865, ZENITH became the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, and its watches have accompanied extraordinary figures that dreamt big and strived to achieve the impossible – from Louis Blériot’s history-making flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-setting stratospheric free-fall jump. Zenith is also highlighting visionary and trailblazing women by celebrating their accomplishments and creating the DREAMHERS platform where women share their experiences and inspire others to fulfil their dreams.

With innovation as its guiding star, ZENITH exclusively features in-house developed and manufactured movements in all its watches. Since the creation of the El Primero in 1969, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre, ZENITH has gone on to master high-frequency precision and offers time measurements in fractions of a second, including 1/10th of a second in the Chronomaster collection and 1/100th of a second in the DEFY collection. Because innovation is synonymous with responsibility, the ZENITH HORIZ-ON initiative affirms the brand’s commitments to inclusion & diversity, sustainability and employee wellbeing. ZENITH has been shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking since 1865, accompanying those who dare to challenge themselves and reach new heights. The time to reach your star is now.

 

 

ZENITH CONTINUES ITS SUPPORT FOR THE GLOBAL FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER WITH THE CHRONOMASTER SPORT PINK IN SUPPORT OF SUSAN G. KOMEN®

Posted on by
Reply

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, ZENITH is once again reaffirming its support for the global fight against breast cancer with the Chronomaster Sport Pink, a limited edition of 500 pieces with a portion of the sales benefitting Susan G. Komen® and which marks the first new dial colour for the steel Chronomaster Sport since the collection’s launch in 2021.

A bold colour with a strong message. The Chronomaster Sport Pink limited edition is the latest in a long series of ZENITH special and unique watches created to raise awareness on breast cancer. A worthy cause that falls within the ZENITH HORIZ-ON initiative’s main pillar of women’s empowerment, ZENITH supports Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization and its mission to raise global awareness about the impact of breast cancer. Alongside numerous activities to be hosted in major cities across the world this October, ZENITH is furthering its commitment during Breast Cancer Awareness Month by using its most popular model, the Chronomaster Sport, to support the cause. The Chronomaster Sport Pink limited edition of 500 watches marks the latest action by ZENITH in support of the foundation, with a portion of the sales donated to reach more women and offer access to education, support and hope.

On ZENITH’s continued support for the Susan G. Komen foundation, CEO Julien Tornare shared “The Chronomaster Sport is definitely our most emblematic modern El Primero chronograph today, and I’m so happy to see it serve as a vessel to promote the fight against breast cancer and raise awareness. Susan G. Komen is doing an incredible job making a difference for women across the world, and ZENITH is proud and humbled to support their efforts.”

“ZENITH remains a strong advocate and partner to the breast cancer community. ZENITH and Komen demonstrate the power of working together to make a difference to our courageous community,” said Sarah Rosales, Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at Susan G. Komen. “With ZENITH’s partnership, we are working everyday to create a world without breast cancer. We are truly thankful for their support.”

The Chronomaster Sport Pink limited edition reimagines ZENITH’s award-winning 1/10th of a second chronograph with a striking pink dial. Its radiant sunburst metallic dial reflecting a range of intense pink hues, while its oversized chronograph counters and even the date wheel have been coloured to match.

In a first for the steel version of the Chronomaster Sport, the engraved 1/10th of a second bezel is crafted in steel instead of ceramic. With its polished surface and black filled engraved markers, it takes on a slightly retro vibe, recalling the El Primero “Rainbow” models of the 1990s. Paired with the three-link steel bracelet, the pink dial truly stands out.

Visible through the sapphire display back is the latest version of the El Primero calibre. With its high frequency of 5 Hz (36’000 VpH), the movement offers a true 1/10th of second indication. The contemporary and efficient construction allows for a power reserve of 60 hours.

The Chronomaster Sport Pink is limited to 500 pieces and available from ZENITH physical and online boutiques as well as authorized retailers around the world. 20% of the proceeds from the sale of the Chronomaster Sport Pink will directly be donated to Susan G. Komen, supporting its efforts to make a positive impact on their community by allowing patients everywhere to live better, longer lives.

 

ZENITH: TIME TO REACH YOUR STAR

ZENITH exists to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and make them come true – against all odds. Since its establishment in 1865, ZENITH became the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, and its watches have accompanied extraordinary figures that dreamt big and strived to achieve the impossible – from Louis Blériot’s history-making flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-setting stratospheric free-fall jump. Zenith is also highlighting visionary and trailblazing women by celebrating their accomplishments and creating the DREAMHERS platform where women share their experiences and inspire others to fulfill their dreams.

With innovation as its guiding star, ZENITH exclusively features in-house developed and manufactured movements in all its watches. Since the creation of the El Primero in 1969, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre, ZENITH has gone on to master high-frequency precision and offers time measurements in fractions of a second, including 1/10th of a second in the Chronomaster collection and 1/100th of a second in the DEFY collection. Because innovation is synonymous with responsibility, the ZENITH HORIZ-ON initiative affirms the brand’s commitments to inclusion & diversity, sustainability and employee wellbeing. ZENITH has been shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking since 1865, accompanying those who dare to challenge themselves and reach new heights. The time to reach your star is now.

ABOUT SUSAN G. KOMEN

Susan G. Komen® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/social.

ZENITH UNVEILS THE CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL

Posted on by
Reply

TRICOLOUR TO THE CORE: ZENITH UNVEILS THE CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL WITH A BLACK TRICOLOUR DIAL

The modern successor to the ZENITH A386, one of the first round-cased steel El Primero reference from 1969, the Chronomaster Original now reinterprets the iconic tricolour dial in black – a first for the historical 1969 case. Equipped with the latest generation of the El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph calibre that features a 1/10th of a second chronograph function, the Chronomaster Original with black tricolour dial stands out as a thoroughly contemporary take on one of the most emblematic El Primero references.

In the newest addition to the Chronomaster Original line, one of the most distinctively El Primero design elements is inverted: the traditionally creamy-white dial bearing three counters in shades of grey and blue is rendered black for a more dramatic look. It marks the first time that a black tricolour dial appears in the 38mm steel case originally designed for the A386 in 1969. Much like the Chronomaster Sport line, which features both white and black tricolour dials, the Chronomaster Original line is now completed with a historical white tricolour dial and a bolder, more modern black tricolour dial. By making the base black, the other elements also had to be inverted form white to black and vice-versa, including the date wheel in the trapezoid window at 04:30, as well as the 1/10th of a second and 10-second chronograph scales.

 

Without disrupting the unique aesthetic of the A386 and its multiple scales, the Chronomaster Original perfectly integrates a 1/10th of a second chronograph into the design. Truly like no other chronograph, the Chronomaster Original features a central red chronograph second hand that completes one rotation of the dial in 10 seconds. The chronograph hand steadily advances every 1/10th of a second, allowing for intuitive fractional time measurement.

Sharing the same overall silhouette and proportions as its historical predecessor from 1969, the Chronomaster Original is crafted in a 38mm round bezel-less steel case with a raised and domed crystal. The pump-style chronograph pushers, the faceted lugs and the mix of radial brushed and polished surfaces throughout are indistinguishable between the past and present models. The steel bracelet has also been redesigned, replacing the open “ladder” design of 1969 with solid links.

After over 50 years since changing the trajectory of mechanical chronographs forever, ZENITH continues to develop and evolve the El Primero calibre into new iterations that push the limits of performance. It remains the benchmark of precision among automatic chronograph movements. The Chronomaster Original is equipped with the latest version of the El Primero calibre, dubbed the El Primero 3600. With its high frequency of 5 Hz (36’000 VpH), the movement offers a true 1/10th of second indication. Its autonomy has also been rendered more efficient, with an extended power reserve of 60 hours. The sapphire display back provides an unobstructed view of the movement’s contemporary, architecture features a sleeker and more open design, revealing a blue column wheel and open rotor marked with the five-pointed star Zenith.

The Chronomaster Original with black tricolour dial joins the line as a permanent part of the collection, available at ZENITH boutiques and authorized retailers around the world.

ZENITH: TIME TO REACH YOUR STAR. 

ZENITH exists to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and make them come true – against all odds. Since its establishment in 1865, ZENITH became the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, and its watches have accompanied extraordinary figures that dreamt big and strived to achieve the impossible – from Louis Blériot’s history-making flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-setting stratospheric free-fall jump. Zenith is also highlighting visionary and trailblazing women by celebrating their accomplishments and creating the DREAMHERS platform where women share their experiences and inspire others to fulfil their dreams.

With innovation as its guiding star, ZENITH exclusively features in-house developed and manufactured movements in all its watches. Since the creation of the El Primero in 1969, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre, ZENITH has gone on to master high-frequency precision and offers time measurements in fractions of a second, including 1/10th of a second in the Chronomaster collection and 1/100th of a second in the DEFY collection. Because innovation is synonymous with responsibility, the ZENITH HORIZ-ON initiative affirms the brand’s commitments to inclusion & diversity, sustainability and employee wellbeing. ZENITH has been shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking since 1865, accompanying those who dare to challenge themselves and reach new heights. The time to reach your star is now.