June 27 2025

Zenith Chronomaster Original: A Classic Reimagined In Blue

MRSTATELESS NEW RELEASES, ZENITH 2025, Chronograph 0

Zenith continues to build on the legacy of the iconic A386 with the latest addition to its Chronomaster Original collection. First introduced in 2021 as a direct evolution of the 1969 original, the Chronomaster Original blends vintage aesthetics with modern watchmaking performance. Now, for the first time, the model is offered with a deep blue dial that highlights its signature design elements and cutting-edge movement.

A Tribute to the Original A386

At the heart of the Chronomaster Original is a stainless steel case that mirrors the proportions of the 1969 A386. With a compact 38 mm diameter and a thickness of 12.90 mm—including the domed sapphire crystal—this case features sharp, faceted lugs and a slim polished bezel. The radial-brushed and polished finishing across the case enhances its visual depth, while pump-style pushers and a signed crown reinforce its vintage character.

Updated Dial in Zenith’s Signature Blue

The new blue dial version introduces a bold yet elegant twist to the Chronomaster Original. Its sunray-brushed midnight blue surface is complemented by the signature tri-colour sub-dials—blue at 3 o’clock, grey at 6 o’clock, and silver at 9 o’clock. Each is finely snailed to catch the light differently and enhance legibility.

Further dial elements remain faithful to the original design. The hour markers are faceted, applied, and treated with luminescent material. The white baton hands include black-filled sections for contrast and lume for low-light visibility. At 4:30, the date display is framed and features a blue date disc matching the dial color. On the periphery, the classic tachymeter has been replaced with a 1/10th of a second scale—one of the standout technical upgrades of this model.

Powered by the El Primero 3600

Driving the Chronomaster Original is Zenith’s El Primero 3600 calibre, a high-frequency automatic chronograph movement operating at 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour). This updated engine enables a chronograph function capable of measuring elapsed times to 1/10th of a second, with the central red chronograph hand making a full rotation every 10 seconds.

All three sub-dials are calibrated to 60, underscoring the watch’s precise timekeeping focus. The 60-second counter is positioned at 3 o’clock, the 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock, and the running seconds at 9 o’clock. The movement also incorporates a stop-seconds function and a power reserve of 60 hours.

The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, which is framed by a 12-sided bezel. Inside, the architecture showcases modern finishing techniques with an openworked rotor bearing Zenith’s star motif, a blue column wheel, and skeletonized bridges.

Strap Options and Pricing

The Chronomaster Original with blue dial comes with a stainless steel bracelet and a blue calfskin strap. Both configurations come with a folding clasp for secure and comfortable wear.

The retail price is set at € 10,400.