Zenith Chronomaster Original iN Black

One of the most renowned models in the Zenith catalog, the A386 reference, which is part of the brand's 1969 trilogy of watches that included the El Primero high-frequency chronograph movement, has returned with a new look. The latest version of the “Zenith Chronomaster Original” now appears with a sleek black dial, replacing the traditional silvery-white one. We almost thought this option already existed, but it turns out that was not the case. This change brings a contemporary flair to the classic design, while the tricolor sub-dials continue to stand out as a symbol of Zenith's craftsmanship and innovation.The 38mm case is made of stainless-steel with a mixture of polished casebands and brushed finish surface. These curves and accents are very close to those found on the original model. Just like the “Chronomaster Revival” this edition has also preserved  the distinctive lugs, which have been a mainstay throughout its many iterations.Just like the previously mentioned “Chronomaster Revival” edition, this new release also deviates from the true original model that started it all back in 1969 by using a sapphire exhibition caseback that allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It comes equipped with two mushroom-style push-pieces to operate the chronograph functions. All topped by a box-shaped sapphire crystal with antireflective coating. Water-resistance can reach up to 50 meters (164 feet).Once we reach the dial the true novelty is unveiled. For the first time ever Zenith has released a black version of their iconic Chronomaster dial. It is a minor but very notable modification that further widens the options for those interested in acquiring this classic timepiece. In terms of telling time we still rely on applied hour indices, followed by a thin white printed ring of minute and seconds markers with Arabic numerals for every 5-minute increment, while circling around the flange is a sloped black tachymeter scale with white numerals.Plus it features its characteristic tricolor sub-dials with snailed interiors: a 60-second register at 3 o’clock in dark blue; a 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock in dark gray; and a sub-seconds at the 9 o’clock position in light-gray. 

The central hour/minutes baton-style hands and syringe red seconds/chronograph hand are all also faithful reproductions of the original A386. There is also a date aperture between the 4 and 5 o’clock positions.

Zenith Chronomaster Original

The “Zenith Chronomaster Original” (References below) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber El Primero 3600 with 35 jewels, and 36,000 vph. This is the same redesigned movement that was developed to pay tribute to the legendary El Primero movement. Power reserve can last up to 60 hours, when fully wound.Mounted to the watch is either a black leather strap with exposed white stitchings, or for an additional price it can ship with a stainless-steel bracelet with polished center links; both are secured by a stainless-steel folding clasp. For more up to date information visit the official Zenith website here.

 

 

 

Zenith, Chronomaster, Original, El Primero, Luxury Watches