Zenith’s legendary movement gets a modern makeover in this sporty new collection
When it was introduced in 1969, Zenith’s El Primero instantly captured the attention of the watch world. One of the first high-frequency automatic chronographs, it operated at 36,000vph and was capable of measuring elapsed intervals to the nearest 1/10th of a second. While over the decades it has appeared in various guises, the new Chronomaster Sport has been overhauled from the inside out, while staying true to the pioneering spirit of the original.
Its look takes inspiration from some of Zenith’s classic models, not only the legendary El Primero A386 that started it all, but also nods from the De Luca from the 1980s. The new models are set apart from their predecessors by their black ceramic bezel, and come presented on a sleek integrated steel bracelet, inspired by those designed by Gay Frères that appeared on many past Zenith watches.
The dials have also been refined to bring a contemporary aesthetic while retaining many of the popular features that made its vintage counterparts a hit. In particular, its tri-colour chronograph counters draw the eye, designed in blue, anthracite and light grey just like the A386. The timepieces come in two dial options – black and white – with the option of pairing with a textured cordura-effect leather strap.
At its heart, the watch is powered by a new version of Zenith’s renowned movement, the El Primero 3,600. Building on the watchmaker’s more than five decades of expertise in high-frequency calibres, as well as offering 36,000vph and a 1/10th of second display, it brings an enhanced power reserve of 60 hours.
