Inspired by this unique architectural language, ZENITH unveils the CHRONOMASTER Original Paris Edition, a limited edition of 50 pieces created exclusively for the French market.
Following the DEFY Skyline Paris Edition introduced in 2024, this latest tribute to the City of Light takes a different approach. While the previous edition explored the contemporary architectural identity of Paris through the bold and angular design codes of the DEFY collection, the CHRONOMASTER Original draws from the Manufacture’s rich watchmaking heritage, reinterpreting the city’s timeless elegance through one of ZENITH’s most emblematic chronographs.
Verdigris once again serves as the visual thread connecting this Parisian series, but its inspiration has evolved. Rather than focusing solely on the patinated copper rooftops and monuments that shape the city’s skyline, this new edition captures the broader essence of Parisian architecture: its carefully composed perspectives, harmonious proportions and remarkable sense of equilibrium.
Inspired directly by the legendary A386 of 1969, the CHRONOMASTER Original remains one of the purest expressions of the El Primero. Its compact 38 mm case, pump-style chronograph pushers, tapered lugs and box-shaped sapphire crystal faithfully preserve the proportions of the original design. More than half a century later, its balanced silhouette remains as relevant as ever—a timeless form whose elegance mirrors that of Paris itself.
Created exclusively for this edition, the dial features a striking verdigris gradient finish. Deeply associated with the Parisian landscape, verdigris can be found on the copper rooftops, domes and architectural details that punctuate the city’s horizon.
As copper ages, it develops a distinctive patina, gaining depth and character over time. Much like the great icons of Paris, it evolves while retaining its identity.
The gradient effect brings depth and visual richness to the dial, while the chronograph counters provide the same sense of clarity and balance that has defined the El Primero for more than five decades. The interplay between verdigris and multiple shades of green creates a display that feels both contemporary and unmistakably distinctive.
Powering the CHRONOMASTER Original Paris Edition is the El Primero 3600, the latest evolution of ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency automatic chronograph movement. Beating at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), it delivers a true 1/10th of a second indication displayed directly via the central chronograph hand.
Completing one full rotation every 10 seconds, the hand transforms the movement’s high frequency into a visual performance that is as intuitive as it is captivating.
More than fifty years after its debut, the El Primero remains one of the rare chronograph movements from the golden age of Swiss mechanical watchmaking that is still in production today. Visible through the sapphire case back, the movement showcases its signature blue column wheel and openworked rotor adorned with the ZENITH star. It offers a power reserve of 60 hours and incorporates a stop-seconds mechanism for precise time setting.
The sapphire case back is engraved with the inscription “ÉDITION PARIS”, alongside the individual number of each watch within the limited series of 50 pieces.
The CHRONOMASTER Original Paris Edition is presented on a stainless steel bracelet fitted with ZENITH’s new ZENCLASP™ folding clasp, featuring an integrated micro-adjustment system for enhanced comfort and versatility. An additional black nubuck strap is included, offering a more casual alternative and allowing the watch to adapt effortlessly to different occasions.
Limited to just 50 pieces, the CHRONOMASTER Original Paris Edition will be available exclusively through ZENITH France e-commerce from June 29, 2026, before arriving at the Maison’s Paris boutiques in September 2026.
