After beginning 2024 with two new models of its Pilot collection (which you can check out here, if you haven’t already), the brand with the star has decided to focus on the Chronomaster collection over LVMH Watch Week in Miami.
Worth the wait
First up, Zenith introduces the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar, a true gem that's making a spectacular comeback, after 55 years in the making. Yes, you heard that right!
For those of you who didn’t know, this timepiece was initially designed in 1969. In short, the El Primero high-frequency chronograph calibre was crafted to incorporate moon phase and triple calendar functions from the start. The brand even developed 25 prototypes of the watch in 1970! However, due to the success of the core chronograph version, Zenith opted to delay the Triple Calendar’s release, and it remained an unrealized prototype.
So now, as a special treat and in honour of the original model, Zenith has decided to put its prized automatic high-frequency 1/10th of a second El Primero chronograph movement (now operating at a 5 Hz rate and boasting a 60-hour power reserve) back in its original case. And by that, I mean original. The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar literally mirrors the blueprint and proportions of the original model, from its 38mm steel case to its clean display of information. The days of the week and month of the triple calendar still rest above the chronograph counters, and its date at 4:30. And the moon phase stays true to the chronograph’s 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock.
With three dial variations—silvery-white, opaline slate-grey, and sunburst olive-green—each available with either a three-link steel bracelet or calfskin strap matching the dial colour, there are a total of six new and distinct models (to accommodate all styles).
All in all, it is just like the old classic model, but with a contemporary twist that makes all the difference. A perfect combination, really, that was well worth the wait.
And I didn’t even tell you the best part yet: the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar remains an affordable piece, priced at CHF 12,900 with the leather strap and CHF 13,400 with the steel bracelet. Why not start the year with a little splurge?
Green light
Next in line is the Chronomaster Sport Green. It boasts the first green ceramic bezel, which displays the 1/10th of a second on its 41mm case, complementing the lacquered dial. Also, it features another first: the first integrated rubber strap of the collection - green (to fit the colour scheme, obviously) and crafted from soft but durable FKM rubber, which fits perfectly inside the case. And for those who prefer a more classic look, worry not: a three-link steel bracelet with an adjustable clasp is also available.
And last but not least comes the boutique-exclusive version: the first-ever bejewelled Chronomaster Sport. Adorned with baguette-cut white diamonds, black spinels and blue sapphires on the bezel, it follows Zenith's tricolour scheme to a T. The hour markers are set with diamonds in shades of grey and blue for extra harmony. It will attract many enviable looks with its rose gold case and bracelet. But what really makes it stand out is its dial: crafted from meteorite with a hand-finished warm glow, it showcases an intricate Windmanstätten pattern.
Naturally, and most importantly, both versions are powered by the latest version of the El Primero calibre – the El Primero 3600, precise to the 1/10th of a second and beating at 36,000 VbH.
Among all of these incredible novelties, you might be wondering which one of these is my favourite (and if not, please bear with me). I, along with my WorldTempus colleagues, had the lucky opportunity to get a sneak peek of the new releases last week, before they jetted off to Miami. And interestingly (but not surprisingly), favourites differed. But, the most common one was the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar with a sunburst olive-green dial version on a calfskin strap. It just hit all the right marks.
What about you? Which one do you like most?
