Zenith releases an online-only limited edition Chronomaster Original model featuring the tricolore, one of the brand's most iconic design elements.

Sep 15, 2021

Since the launch of the A386 in 1969, the three-color chronograph counters have become one of Zenith's instantly recognizable features, and have remained a signature feature of many El Primero models over the years. Now, for enthusiasts of these tricolor counters, Zenith has unveiled the ultimate model, the Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition, which features the iconic gray and blue colors not only on the dial but also on more components than ever before. Available exclusively at Zenith online boutiques. Launched earlier this summer, the new Chronomaster Original reinterprets the iconic A386 steel El Primero model from 1969, featuring the acclaimed latest-generation automatic chronograph caliber, making it the undisputed successor to the collection's best-selling automatic chronograph to date. The 38mm bezel-less steel case retains the same proportions as the original, with pump-style pushers and a raised "box" crystal. Meanwhile, the high-frequency movement, the El Primero 3600, with a 5Hz (36,000 VpH), has been redesigned and evolved from the original, offering a 1/10th-second chronograph function and a 60-hour power reserve, all housed within a more modern, open architecture in a sleek gray palette. One of the most easily distinguishable features of the Chronomaster Original from the A386 is its tricolor dial. In keeping with the three-color theme, this striking design element synonymous with El Primero graces not only the dial but the entire watch. The dial surrounds the main body, divided into three sections, in the same gray and blue tones as the chronograph counters. The scale that surrounds the dial is a historic feature of the A386 and is stylishly incorporated into the Chronomaster Original. More than simply adding a vibrant touch of color to the dial, the E-Commerce Edition divides the scale into three different color sections, making the seconds scale, measured in tenths of a second, easier to read. This marks the first time that the three colors reminiscent of El Primero have been used on any part of the dial other than the chronograph counters.


The tricolor theme continues on the strap, with dark grey nubuck leather colour-coordinated with the chronograph minute counter at 6 o'clock on the dial. Loop stitching is also in blue on the right to match the chronograph seconds counter at 3 o'clock, and in light grey on the left to match the running seconds register, subtly yet clearly referencing Zenith's most iconic dial.


Like many of the limited and special editions available online, the Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition comes in a special watch box reminiscent of a coffee table book, with a 2D drawing of the watch on the cover. Upon opening the box, a delightful surprise is included: a small gift to complete the Tricolore universe and share your passion. The three postcards, featuring the brand's signature grey and blue colors, are depicted in a minimalist, flat style, instantly recognizable as the iconic Zenith El Primero Chronograph.



Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition
Reference: 03.3200.3600/34.C869
Features: Automatic column-wheel El Primero chronograph with 1/10th of a second accuracy. 60-hour power reserve. Date display at 4:30. Stop-seconds mechanism. E-commerce exclusive. Movement: El Primero 3600 automatic movement
Frequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz)
Power reserve: approximately 60 hours
Functions: Central hour and minute hands. Small seconds at 9 o'clock. 1/10th of a second chronograph: Central chronograph hand that makes one rotation every 10 seconds, 60-second counter at 3 o'clock, 60-minute counter at 6 o'clock
Case: 38mm
Material: Stainless steel
Dial: White lacquered dial with three-color counters and a three-color seconds scale in 1/10th of a second increments
Water resistance: 5 bar
Case back: Sapphire crystal
Price including tax: 968,000 yen
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted, and coated with Super-LumiNova(R)SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted, and coated with Super-LumiNova(R)SLN C1
Bracelet & buckle: Grey calfskin leather with special stitching and a stainless steel triple folding buckle
編集部
  • Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition / Price including tax: 968,000 yen
  • Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition / Price including tax: 968,000 yen
  • Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition / Price including tax: 968,000 yen
  • Chronomaster Original E-Commerce Edition / Price including tax: 968,000 yen
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