Since the launch of the A386 in 1969, the tri-colour chronograph counters have become one of Zenith’s most instantly recognizable traits that has been prominently featured in many El Primero-equipped models over the years. Now, Zenith is proposing the ultimate creation for lovers of the tri-colour dial with its most extensive use of the three iconic shades of grey and blue yet and going beyond just the dial in the Chronomaster Original E-commerce edition, exclusively available on the Zenith online boutique.
Serving customers from around the world for just over a year, the Zenith online boutique now welcomes its second exclusive creation, the Chronomaster Original E-commerce edition. Launched earlier this summer, the new Chronomaster Original reinterprets the iconic A386 steel El Primero reference from 1969 with the latest generation of the acclaimed automatic chronograph calibre – a veritable successor to one of the most coveted automatic chronographs ever made. Its 38mm bezel-less steel case retains the same proportions as the original, along with the pump-style pushers and raised glass “box”. In contrast, the movement within it beating at the high frequency of 5Hz (36’000 VpH) is the El Primero 3600, a redesigned evolution of the original that allows for a 1/10th of a second chronograph function as well as an extended power reserve of 60 hours; all in a more modern and open architecture with sleek grey tones.
One of the most distinguishable features of the Chronomaster Original and the A386 that came before is the tri-colour dial. A striking design element that has become synonymous with the El Primero, the dial of this online exclusive Chronomaster Original goes even further chromatically to celebrate the tri-colour theme. Surrounding the main portion of the dial, is split into three sections that take on the same shades of grey and blue as the chronograph counters. The scale surrounding the dial is a historical feature of the A386 that has been cleverly readapted to the Chronomaster Original. Beyond simply adding a vibrant touch of colour to the dial, the division of the scale into three distinct portions in the E-Commerce edition simplifies reading the 1/10th of a second scale. This marks the first time that another part of the dial besides the chronograph counters are fashioned in the three colours that are linked to the El Primero.
The tri-colour theme also extends to the strap, which is made of dark grey nubuck leather matching the chronograph’s minute counter at 6 o’clock of the dial, while a looped stitch is done in blue on the right side matching the chronograph’s second counter at 3 0’clock, and a light grey stitch on the left side matching the running seconds register for a subtle but remarkable nod to the most iconic Zenith dial of all.
Joining a handful of other exclusive and special editions online, the Chronomaster Original E-commerce edition is delivered in a special watch box that mimics the look of a coffee table book, depicting a 2D drawing of the watch on the cover. Upon opening the box, buyers will have the pleasant surprise of discovering a small gift to complete the tri-colour experience and share the passion around. Three different postcards fashioned in the signature shades of grey and blue depict the watch in a minimalist flat style; instantly recognizable as the iconic Zenith El Primero chronograph.
Offering a unique and colourful twist on the modern El Primero staple, The Chronomaster Original E-commerce edition celebrates the tri-colour dial in a striking yet cohesive manner and is available as of now exclusively on the Zenith online boutique.
