Zenith Chronomaster Revival “Safari”
Vintage trends come and go in cycles, especially when your brand has a rich back catalogue for inspiration. In recent years Zenith has brought back some of its most celebrated El Primero references, such as the A384, A385, and A386. Their latest release is the Zenith Chronomaster Revival “Safari” based on the A384 version with some altered proportions and a “jungle” themed dial. The barrel-shaped 37mm case is made of micro-blasted titanium which is a lightweight and resistant material. Another notable characteristic of this alloy is how the matte titanium absorbs light instead of reflecting it, which gives the case a darker look, especially compared to the more common steel versions of this timepiece.
On the flip-side is a transparent exhibition caseback that allows to view the inner workings of this mechanical movement. It features some golden gears, shiny jewels and a counter-weight adorned with the iconic Zenith star.
It comes equipped with round pump-style pushers to activate the chronograph functions, and a knurled crown that also showcases the Zenith “star” logo engraving. Design wise the case has a very solid appearance that includes wide protruding lugs for a relaxed wrist fit.
All topped by a domed sapphire crystal that seems to slightly distort the dial design, which has been printed with very sharp white markings further singled-out by its green background. Water-resistance on this watch can reach up to 50m (164 feet).
Time is exhibited on a dark green dial with applied hour index markers, followed by small white printed seconds and minute markers. A tachymeter scale is seen circling around the circumference of the dial on a black ring.
It includes three snailed black sub-dials: a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock; a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock; and a sub-seconds at the 9 o’clock position. This a departure form the classic tri-colour color scheme that Zenith tends to imbue into this collection. There is also a date aperture between the 4 and 5 o’clock positions.
The central hour/minutes baton-style hands and syringe shaped white chronograph hand are all faithful reproductions of the original A386 El Primero, circa 1970’s. These hands and the hour index have all been fitted with a beige-colored luminescence, for an enhanced legibility.
Zenith Chronomaster Revival “Safari”
The “Zenith Chronomaster Revival “Safari”" (Ref#: 97.T384.400/57.C856) is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 400 with 31 jewels, 278 components and 36,000 vph. Featuring a high-frequency column-wheel and an oscillating weight. This is Zenith’s El Primero in its purest original form. Power reserve on this timepiece can last up to 50 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted to the watch is a khaki green cordura effect strap with exposed white stitching, while secured to the wrist by a micro-blasted titanium pin buckle. For more up to date information visit the official Zenith website here.
