From JustLuxe content partner iW Magazine

Zenith modernizes its Chronomaster Open collection with a new El Primero movement, a hesalite seconds counter, and a smaller case diameter.

Veteran collectors might remember the Chronomaster Open’s 2003 debut, which featured a larger case and a multi-aperture view into an earlier El Primero movement. The new watch, which is Zenith’s Watches and Wonders 2022 highlight, is lighter in several ways when compared to its forebears and the previous Chronomaster Open collection.

Now presented in a more wrist-friendly 39.5mm steel or rose gold case, the new Chronomaster Open revisits the well-known three-color Zenith Chronomaster layout but with several new elements added.

Here, Zenith retains the small seconds counter at 9 o’clock (which was absent in the original Chronomaster Open), remaking it with a clear hesalite crystal. The transparency of the crystal allows the viewer to see into purple silicon star-shaped escape wheel.

In addition, Zenith has altered the shape of the dial opening, adding circular openings with chamfered edges instead of the former version’s applied metallic frame with blued screws. The results expose the new El Primero 3604 in its more contemporary grey hue.

Zenith wisely based the new caliber on the recently debuted El Primero 3600 1/10th of a second automatic high-frequency caliber. The new design, which replaces the existing Chronomaster Open collection,  is a nice mid-way point between Zenith’s Chronomaster Sport and its vintage-tinged Chronomaster Original.

With its new diameter (current collection models are 42mm), cleaner dial, and explicit 1/10th of a second display, the new Chronomaster Open hits all the updates required for a truly contemporary collection.

Price: $10,000 (steel on bracelet) and $21,300 (rose gold on strap).

Gold Chronomaster Sport

In addition, Zenith adds a gold edition of its very hot Chronomaster Sport, which has become a top seller for the brand since its introduction last year. Zenith now offers the Chronomaster Sport in rose gold (including the bracelet and engraved bezel with 1/10th of a second scale.)

Available with either a black or white dial with the signature El Primero three-color counters, golden hands, and applied markers. Price: $38,200.

A boutique-only steel version sports a unique, three-color bezel (see below, $11,900).

Also, look for a two-tone Chronomaster Sport  (below) in rose gold and steel ($17,000).

iW Magazine

The unrivaled destination for any horological enthusiast, novice explorer or self-proclaimed watch nerd; and just about anyone intrigued by beauty and mechanics. For 29 years, International Watch has been the definitive authority for all watch-related matters, providing in-depth reports on all aspects of horology, from established Swiss watchmaking firms to independent houses of horology, product reviews, technical stories, wrist trends, the unique culture of collectors and more. International Watch Magazine offers a global perspective on all watch-related matters, aptly fitting into the context of our readers’ horological interests. We expose the expertise, craftsmanship and history, engage in brand storytelling and celebrate the mechanical acumen of the industry’s finest brands. Our team comprises some of the most respected authorities on luxury timepieces, educating, and eloquently capturing the experience of the watch enthusiast....(Read More)