Tag Archives: Zenith watches

Zenith Defy Zero G Sapphire: A Celestial Masterpiece That Defies Gravity

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When Watchmaking Meets Weightlessness

Some watches tell time. Others redefine it.
Zenith’s Defy Zero G Sapphire belongs to the latter. It doesn’t just keep time—it defies gravity itself. Literally.

In a world where watchmaking has seen almost everything, Zenith dares to reimagine what precision can mean. And the result? Two breathtaking limited editions that look as if they were carved from starlight itself—one in deep celestial blue sapphire, the other in transparent crystal clarity. Each limited to just 10 pieces worldwide.

A Story of Defiance and Discovery

Back in 2008, Zenith unveiled a concept that seemed almost impossible: a wristwatch movement that could cancel out gravity’s pull on its precision. Fast forward to today, and that dream lives inside the Defy Zero G.

At the heart of this watch beats a world-first innovation — the Gravity Control module, a gimbal-mounted escapement that constantly keeps itself perfectly level, no matter how your wrist moves.
It’s inspired by marine chronometers that once helped sailors navigate the open seas. Only now, that same principle of stability lives inside a 46mm sapphire case, wrapped around your wrist.

That’s the kind of audacious engineering that makes Zenith… Zenith.

A Universe Captured in Sapphire

The blue sapphire edition is pure cosmic poetry. Its lapis lazuli dial, flecked with gold pyrite, shimmers like a slice of the night sky. Each piece has its own pattern—no two alike—like constellations drawn by hand.

The transparent sapphire edition strips everything down to pure form and function. Every bevel, bridge, and balance wheel is visible in luminous clarity. Nothing to hide, everything to admire.

Inside beats the manual-winding El Primero 8812S calibre, running at 5Hz, revealing a hypnotic dance of motion through openworked architecture. The rotating Gravity Control module at 6 o’clock keeps the escapement level, as if the laws of physics were optional.

Precision Becomes Art

There’s something almost philosophical about the Defy Zero G. In a world obsessed with speed, Zenith slows things down—to focus on mastery. Every movement, every polished edge, every laser-engraved star speaks of patience and purpose.

The counterweight of the gyroscopic system even carries an engraving that resembles a celestial body—a reminder that this isn’t just a watchmaker’s experiment. It’s a meditation on control, beauty, and balance.

Ten Pieces. Infinite Imagination.

Each Defy Zero G Sapphire is a limited edition of just 10. Priced around USD 207,500, it’s not a watch for everyone—and that’s exactly the point.
It’s for the dreamers, the collectors, the believers in the impossible. Those who see time not as something to measure, but something to master.

Because at Zenith, defying gravity isn’t a metaphor.
It’s a way of life.

Conclusion

The Zenith Defy Zero G Sapphire isn’t just about mechanics—it’s about emotion. It’s about watching centuries of horological heritage collide with modern innovation to create something timeless, transparent, and alive.

In sapphire and steel, light and motion, Zenith has built not just a watch, but a statement: that perfection is never static—it’s always in motion, just like time itself.

Technical Specifications

DEFY ZERO G
Reference: 04.9003.8812/51.R584
Key points: Full blue sapphire case. Entirely skeletonized movement : El Primero 8812.
“Gravity Control” gyroscopic module that ensures horizontal positioning of the regulating
organ. Now occupies only 30% of its initial volume. Inspired by the legendary marine
chronometers. Openworked dial. The movement is protected by 1 patent related to the
Gravity Control cage. Limited edition of 10 pieces.
Movement: El Primero 8812
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 50 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes excentred at 12 o’clock, small seconds at 9 o’clock, self-
regulating Gravity Control module at 6 o’clock, power-reserve indication at 3 o’clock
Finishes: Exclusive two tones (blue and rhodium) signature on plates and bridges + milled
Starry Sky. Laser decorated Platinum counterweight of the gyroscopic system.
Price: 200 000 CHF / 220 000 Euros / 207 500 USD
Material: Blue Sapphire
Water resistance: 3 ATM
Case: 46mm
Dial: Openworked with Lapis Lazuli dial
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Blue Alligator leather lining on rubber with titanium folding clasp

DEFY ZERO G
Reference: 04.9000.8812/51.R584
Key points: Full transparent sapphire case. Entirely skeletonized movement : El Primero
8812. “Gravity Control” gyroscopic module that ensures horizontal positioning of the
regulating organ. Now occupies only 30% of its initial volume. Inspired by the legendary
marine chronometers. Openworked dial. The movement is protected by 1 patent related
to the Gravity Control cage. Limited edition of 10 pieces.
Movement: El Primero 8812
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 50 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes excentred at 12 o’clock, small seconds at 9 o’clock, self-
regulating Gravity Control module at 6 o’clock, power-reserve indication at 3 o’clock
Finishes: Exclusive two tones (blue and rhodium) signature on plates and bridges + milled
Starry Sky. Laser decorated Platinum counterweight of the gyroscopic system.
Price: 200 000 CHF / 220 000 Euros / 207 500 USD
Material: Transparent Sapphire
Water resistance: 3 ATM
Case: 46mm
Dial: Openworked with Lapis Lazuli dial
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Blue Alligator leather lining on rubber with titanium folding clasp

VENTURE INTO THE WILD WITH THE DEFY EXTREME JUNGLE

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Limited to just 50 pieces, the DEFY Extreme Jungle marks the third and final installment in ZENITH’s series of 1/100th of a second chronographs, inspired by extreme environments. Following the Desert and Glacier editions, this version draws inspiration from the untamed energy and captivating
mystery of the jungle.

Continuing in the rugged spirit of the DEFY Extreme line, ZENITH once again looks to wild, uncharted terrains for inspiration. Designed to withstand the harshest conditions— whether deep in the wilderness or the “concrete jungle” — the DEFY Extreme Jungle concludes a series of three evocative special editions featuring natural stones incorporated into the most robust 1/100th of a second chronograph ever made. The incorporation of such exotic gemstones into the complex case’s structure showcases a unique blend of creativity and technical mastery, adding a distinct flair while adhering to high-performance standards.

Crafted from brushed titanium, the light yet sturdy 45mm case of the DEFY Extreme. Jungle features a dodecagonal bezel and pusher protectors made from Tiger’s Eye. With its striking golden to brown hues, shifting reflections and a silky sheen, Tiger’s Eye belongs to the quartz family and has long been used in jewelry and ornamentation. Each watch is unique due to the natural variations in this rare stone. Its colour striations naturally evoke the enigmatic beauty of the tiger, a symbol of strength and mystique. Engineered for high performance, the case offers water resistance up to 20 ATM, making it suitable for the most extreme conditions.

The open sapphire dial reveals the intricate workings of the watch. Further evoking the jungle theme, it is tinted in green while the tiger-colored applied counters subtly mimic tiger stripes. These are complemented by beige luminescent markers and hands, ensuring optimal legibility in all conditions.

At the heart of the DEFY Extreme Jungle beats the automatic El Primero 9004 caliber. Partially visible through the dial and fully exposed via the exhibition case back, this high-frequency chronograph is an innovative evolution of ZENITH’s legendary movement. It remains the world’s fastest automatic chronograph in production, allowing for 1/100th of a second precision. This is achieved through two independent mechanisms, each with its own power source and regulating organ: one beating at 5Hz (36,000 vph) for timekeeping, and the other at 50Hz (360,000 vph) for the chronograph.  Taking advantage of the incredible speed of the latter, the chronograph seconds hand makes a full rotation every second, offering outstanding legibility of the 1/100th of a second display. This innovative movement showcases jungle-inspired finishing touches, with a khaki green main plate and a satin-brushed oscillating weight in the same hue.

The DEFY Extreme also features a practical interchangeable strap system, easily operated via push buttons on the back of the case. To enhance versatility, the Jungle Edition comes with three straps: a titanium bracelet, a khaki green embossed rubber strap with a
titanium folding buckle, and a black Velcro strap.

Limited to 50 pieces, the DEFY Extreme Jungle is available at ZENITH boutiques, online, and through authorized retailers worldwide.

DEFY EXTREME JUNGLE
Reference: 95.9202.9004/26.I001

Key points: 1/100th of a second Chronograph movement
Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second for the chrono hand.
Certified Chronometer.
Screwed-in crown.
Sapphire dial.
Titanium bracelet. 2 additional straps included: 1 khaki rubber with folding
buckle & 1 black Velcro.
Full Interchangeable strap system.
Movement: El Primero 9004
Frequency:
1 escapement for the watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz)
1 escapement for the chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz)
Power reserve: approx. 50 hours
Functions: Small seconds at 9 o’clock.
1/100th of a second chronograph: central chronograph hand that makes one turn each second,
30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, 60-second counter at 6 o’clock, chronograph power-reserve
indication at 12 o’clock.
Finishes: khaki green colored main plate on movement, special khaki green colored oscillating
weight with satined finishes.
Price: 25’900 CHF / 28’000 EUR
Material: brushed titanium & Tiger’s eye gemstone.
Water resistance: 20 ATM
Case: 45mm
Dial: tinted sapphire with three tigered-coloured counters.
Hands: rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1.
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1.
Crystal: flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides
Case-back: transparent sapphire crystal.
Bracelet & Buckle: 3 straps included: titanium bracelet, khaki green embossed rubber strap with a
titanium folding buckle, and black Velcro strap

ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee

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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

ZENITH ELEVATES THE DEFY SKYLINE WITH A HIGH-FREQUENCY TOURBILLON

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A new star in the DEFY Skyline constellation is born. The ZENITH Manufacture incorporates a new automatic high-frequency tourbillon calibre into the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon, in two versions in steel and black ceramic.

The tourbillon mechanism has long been associated with the upper echelon of fine watchmaking; a testament to the technical prowess of the manufacture and the skilled watchmakers that bring these mechanical wonders to life. Originally conceived at the end of the 18th century to counteract the effects of gravity on the watch’s precision, ZENITH has given it its own modernistic spin to demonstrate the Manufacture’s unrivaled expertise in high-frequency precision across multiple movement types and functions as well as the edgy design of the DEFY collection – all in an execution suited for daily wear in any situation. Like all El Primero calibres, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon’s movement operates at a high-frequency rate of 5Hz (36’000 VpH), ensuring optimal chronometric performance with a high resistance to shocks.

Housed in a faceted and highly geometric 41mm case and matching bracelet in either stainless steel or black ceramic, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon melds the distinctively bold and architectural design of the DEFY Skyline with the mechanical animation of a tourbillon mechanism.

Like the core of a galaxy around which countless constellations are strewn, the central kinetic element of the DEFY Skyline is visible through an aperture on the dial’s lower portion. Fixed to a finely mirror-polished bridge with sharp bevels, the tourbillon cage takes on the shape of an open four-pointed star, with the same futuristic lines as those found in other DEFY references with tourbillon mechanisms. Turning ceaselessly around its own axis, the tourbillon completes one revolution every 60 seconds. The case’s water-resistance of 10ATM (100 metres) further affirms the all-conditions endurance of the piece.

The DEFY Skyline’s signature sunray-patterned metallic dial with an engraved starry sky pattern has been adapted specifically for the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon, to accentuate the high-frequency tourbillon. Either in blue for the steel version or black for the ceramic version, the mosaic of engraved four-pointed stars appear to radiate out of the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, expanding as they reach the outer perimeter of the dial. The luminescent applied markers and hands further add contrast to the dial, with rhodium plated indices for the blue dial and rose gold plated indices for the black dial.

Powering the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon is the new El Primero 3630 automatic high-frequency manufacture calibre, with a power reserve of 60 hours. Mirroring the expansive decoration of the dial-side that emanates from the tourbillon, the côtes de Genève stripes on the bridges are arranged in a sunray pattern that appear to dart out of the tourbillon. The open star-shaped rotor allows for an open view of the contemporary movement architecture.

Like all DEFY Skyline models, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon comes on a stainless steel or black ceramic bracelet, with a second strap in blue or black rubber with folding clasp supplied that can easily be switched using the case back’s quick strap-change mechanism requiring no tools.

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

 

 

DEFY SKYLINE TOURBILLON

Reference: 03.9300.3630/51.I001

Key points: Automatic High Frequency Tourbillon. Starry sky pattern on the dial that starts from Tourbillon. Screwed-in crown. Full interchangeable strap system.

Movement: El Primero 3630 automatic

Frequency: 36’000 VpH – 5Hz

Power reserve: approx. 60 hours

Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre Tourbillon: The carriage is positioned at 6 o’clock; it makes one turn per minute; Tourbillon cage with 56 components.

Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings

Price: 55’000 CHF

Material: Stainless steel

Water resistance: 10 ATM

Case: 41mm

Dial: Blue-toned sunray-patterned

Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp. 2nd strap included: blue rubber with folding clasp.

 

DEFY SKYLINE TOURBILLON

Reference: 49.9300.3630/21.I001

Key points: Automatic High Frequency Tourbillon. Starry sky pattern on the dial that starts from Tourbillon. Screwed-in crown. Full interchangeable strap system.

Movement: El Primero 3630 automatic

Frequency: 36’000 VpH – 5Hz

Power reserve: approx. 60 hours

Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre Tourbillon: The carriage is positioned at 6 o’clock; it makes one turn per minute; Tourbillon cage with 56 components.

Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings

Price: 65’000 CHF

Material: Black ceramic

Water resistance: 10 ATM

Case: 41mm

Dial: Black-toned sunray-patterned

Hour markers: Gold-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Hands: Gold-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet & Buckle: Black Ceramic bracelet

 

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 AT LVMH WW 2024: EL PRIMERO TRIPLE CALENDAR

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The El Primero Triple Calendar returns with style with an all-new calibre in the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar

The long-awaited ZENITH triple calendar chronograph makes its grand return – and its sharper than ever before. One of the most emblematic variations of the El Primero for over 50 years, ZENITH’s triple calendar chronograph is instantly recognizable for its clean and balanced display of information. In the new Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar, ZENITH is combining the cutting-edge performance of its legendary automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre’s latest incarnation with a triple calendar and moon phase, all in a compact and historically inspired design that’s unmistakably Chronomaster.

One could say that the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar has been 55 years in the making. A little-known fact that attests to just how advanced ZENITH’s groundbreaking automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre was at the time of its launch in 1969, the El Primero was initially designed to accommodate the triple calendar and moon phase functions right from the very beginning. A series of 25 prototypes was produced in 1970 as a proof of concept, using the same round case as the A386. But given the success of the core chronograph version, it was decided to wait a few years before releasing the first version of the El Primero triple calendar in a watch, which by the 1970s took on a much more space-age design.

With a host of functions, the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar is possibly the most versatile and functional line within the Chronomaster collection. While the 1/10th of a second chronograph is as prominent and legible as the standard Chronomaster Original, the inclusion of the complete calendar is executed in a manner that makes it intuitive to read without cluttering the dial. The days of the week and months are displayed in symmetrically positioned windows above the chronograph counters, while the date window is positioned in the traditional El Primero position of 04:30. The moonphase display is placed with the chronograph’s 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock.

The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar’s compact 38mm case in steel isn’t just vintage inspired, but in fact based on the exact blueprint and proportions of the A386 from 1969. With its bezel-less construction and featuring a raised and domed sapphire crystal, the incorporation of a complete calendar with moonphase mechanism to the automatic high-frequency 1/10th of a second chronograph calibre without altering the case’s proportions are a true feat of ingenious design.

The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar comes in two distinct dial versions: A sportier silvery-white “panda” opaline dial with black counters and 1/10th of a second scale, and an opulent opaline slate-grey dial with silvery-white counters and scale that is directly inspired by the small series of El Primero triple calendar prototypes from 1970. Both versions are highlighted by rose gold-tone applied baton markers and hands, adding a warm contrast that brings out the polished rose gold moon set on a metallic blue sunray-patterned disk with five-pointed stars. A third dial variant, exclusively for the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Boutique Edition available only at ZENITH physical and online boutiques, is done in a sunburst olive-green tone with golden applied markers and hands. In each version, the calendar wheels match the dial colours.

A new variant of the latest generation El Primero automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre, the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar’s El Primero 3610 operates at a rate of 5 Hz (36’000 VpH) to deliver a true 1/10th of a second chronograph function. Even with the addition of the complete calendar, its efficient transmission allows for a power reserve of approximately 60 hours. The sapphire display back provides an unobstructed view of the movement’s contemporary architecture, with a sleek and open design revealing the blue column wheel and open rotor marked with the five-pointed ZENITH star.

The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar comes with either a three-link steel bracelet with the same alternating brushed and polished finishes as the case, or a calfskin strap in black for the panda dial, blue for the slate-grey dial and green for the Boutique Edition dial.

The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar with silvery-white and slate-grey dials are available from all ZENITH boutiques and authorized retailers, while the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Boutique Edition is available exclusively from ZENITH physical and online boutiques worldwide.

ZENITH Takes Flight with Two Boutique Editions and Three Vintage Icons in Pilot Collection Revamp

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Boutique Elegance Unveiled: A New Chapter in ZENITH’s Pilot Collection

ZENITH introduces a captivating fusion of modern elegance and historical charm with the revelation of two exclusive Boutique Editions within its revered Pilot collection. The excitement escalates as ZENITH accompanies these Boutique Editions with the debut of the groundbreaking “ICONS: PILOT” capsule collection—a set of vintage ZENITH chronographs steeped in heritage and meticulously restored.

A Complete Circle: ZENITH’s Legacy and Innovation in Harmony

ZENITH’s unparalleled aviation heritage comes full circle as the first-ever Boutique Editions of the Pilot Automatic and Pilot Big Date Flyback grace the stage, adorned with captivating blue dials. Simultaneously, the brand introduces the thematic “ICONS: PILOT” capsule collection, featuring three vintage Pilot watches that bear the distinguished mark of restoration and certification from the Manufacture’s Heritage Department.

Pinnacle of Aviation Heritage: The Revamped ZENITH Pilot Collection

Revamped in 2023 as a comprehensive line, the ZENITH Pilot collection draws inspiration from the entire spectrum of aviation, seamlessly blending past and present. As pioneers in the aviation watch category since 1904, ZENITH upholds the essential codes of durability, legibility, and intuitiveness in the modern reinterpretation of the Pilot collection. Departing from a mere replication of history, ZENITH embarks on a contemporary design journey, subtly nodding to the adventurous world of flying. The inaugural Boutique Edition of the line looks skyward, featuring a deep shade of blue reminiscent of the night sky.

The significance of blue in ZENITH’s palette harks back to its signature color, symbolizing the night sky and the radiant star that inspired Georges-Favre Jacot to name the manufacture after it. The Pilot collection, however, assigns a new meaning to this hue, evoking the bravery and adventurous spirit of early pilots who dared to soar beyond the horizon.

The epitome of ZENITH’s Pilot watch, the Pilot Automatic Boutique Edition, emerges in a 40mm stainless steel case. Notable features include a distinct flat-top round bezel fixed atop the rounded case, a textured, grooved dial reminiscent of aircraft fuselages, and oversized luminescent Arabic numerals. The luminescent hour marker at 6 o’clock, above the date window with a white-on-blue date wheel, pays homage to the artificial horizon instrument in planes. This boutique-exclusive edition is signed “Pilot,” underscoring ZENITH’s exclusive rights to mark its dials with the term.

Innovative Movements: Powering the Pilot Automatic and Big Date Flyback

Powered by the El Primero 3620 high-frequency manufacture movement, the Pilot Automatic boasts a 60-hour power reserve. The blackened oscillating weight mirrors an “artificial horizon” dashboard instrument. The watch is accompanied by interchangeable blue cordura-effect rubber and brown calfskin straps, accessible through the strap’s quick-release system.

The larger and more feature-packed Pilot Big Date Flyback Boutique Edition, housed in a 42.5mm stainless steel case, showcases the latest El Primero automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre. A nod to aviators, it incorporates coveted functions—a big date and a flyback mechanism. The oversized date display features a patented compliant mechanism for swift advancement, with wheels coloured in the same blue tone as the dial. The flyback function, designed for aviators wearing thick gloves, enables seamless resetting of the chronograph with a single button push.

The El Primero 3652 chronograph calibre with its distinctive “artificial horizon” rotor is visible through the display back. The Pilot Big Date Flyback comes with interchangeable blue cordura-effect rubber and brown calfskin straps, both featuring an integrated quick-release mechanism.

Exclusive to ZENITH physical and online boutiques globally, the Pilot Automatic Boutique Edition and Pilot Big Date Flyback Boutique Edition epitomize the brand’s commitment to innovation and tradition.

Icons of the Sky: ZENITH’s First-Ever ICONS: PILOT Collection

To provide a comprehensive perspective on these latest Pilot creations and to bring ZENITH’s extensive tradition of aviator watches full circle, the brand introduces the groundbreaking “ICONS: PILOT” collection. This collection delves into the vintage realm, presenting highly collectible ZENITH Pilot chronographs from the latter half of the 20th century.

Named ZENITH ICONS: PILOT – ACT I, this capsule collection aligns with the brand’s HORIZ-ON CSR initiative, contributing to a sustainable future by building a circular economy for its emblematic historical references. The ICONS programme ensures the perpetual existence of these historical pieces by curating, restoring, and certifying them through the Manufacture’s Heritage Department. With a focus on authenticity, watch collectors gain unmatched peace of mind, knowing they acquire 100% original examples.

While previous ZENITH ICONS collections centred on earlier El Primero models shaping the contemporary Chronomaster line, the spotlight now shifts to the enduring Pilot collection. The inaugural set comprises three references from the late 1960s and 1970s, exploring both the professional and consumer sides of ZENITH Pilot watches from that era. From utilitarian designs to imaginative and forward-thinking concepts, these three Pilot chronograph references serve as a captivating testament to the brand’s enduring legacy.

TIPO CP-2 CAIRELLI: A Military Marvel of the Late ’60s and ’70s

The first reference, TIPO CP-2 CAIRELLI, produced for the Italian Army Corps between 1968 and 1972, stands out for its military specifications, including enhanced legibility, a rotating bezel, and luminescent Arabic hour numerals and hands. The set includes an example engraved with an A.M.I military serial number, powered by Zenith’s 146 DP manual-winding chronograph calibre.

A3821: Space-Age Design and Diver’s Watch Fusion

The A3821, launched in 1972, exudes a space-age design with a dark, deep sunken dial, luminescent markers and hands, and a tachymeter on the flange ring. Part of the first ZENITH Pilot models equipped with an El Primero calibre, this hybrid watch combines the legibility and luminescence of a pilot’s watch with the water-resistance of a diver’s watch. The set features an example from the very first production lot in 1972.

01.0230.415: The Pioneering Display Back Chronograph

The third reference, ref. 01.0230.415 distinguishes itself as the first ZENITH El Primero chronograph with a display back in mineral glass. Alongside its fellow Pilot-Diver models, it showcases a space-age design with a movement mounted on a suspension system and an integrated “lobster” bracelet made by Gay Frères. The set’s exceedingly rare example features a matte black dial, produced in only 50 units in 1975, and stands out for its see-through caseback and modernized bezel indication displaying minutes instead of hours.

Preserving Legacy: ZENITH’s Commitment to Sustainability

Each vintage piece in the ICONS collection has been meticulously examined and certified, contributing to ZENITH’s legacy of excellence.

As ZENITH continues to soar, these Boutique Editions and ICONS encapsulate the brand’s dedication to timeless design and the spirit of aviation.