Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar El Primero Rose Gold black dial leather strap 38 mm

A legacy reinvented: historical complication meets contemporary aesthetics

When it unveils the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in 2024, ZENITH will be reviving one of its most overlooked yet visionary innovations: the integration of a complete calendar and moon phase within the El Primero caliber. Few people know that in 1970, just one year after the launch of the very first high-frequency automatic chronograph, the Le Locle-based Manufacture was already experimenting with calendar modules featuring moon phases on its 3019 PHF base. Only 25 prototypes were produced, housed in the famous A386. This rare piece became the starting point for a masterful return to the brand's roots, without unnecessary nostalgia.

In 2025, ZENITH transcended this heritage by unveiling a sumptuous version of this model, crafted in 18k rose gold with a remarkably deep black dial. The contrast between the warmth of the metal and the elegant darkness infuses this resolutely modern watch with a neo-classical aura, without ever breaking with the purity of its historical codes.

Design: harmony and contrast in a perfect format

The 38 mm rose gold case replicates the proportions of the legendary A386 to the millimeter: tapered lugs, “pump” pushers, and a domed sapphire crystal. This aesthetic fidelity gives the piece a balanced silhouette that is both compact and charismatic on the wrist.

The matte black dial contrasts with three rose gold-colored azure counters, echoing the warm hue of the case. These ensure perfect readability and create a visual contrast that is as refined as it is dynamic, highlighting the iconic tricompax architecture of El Primero.

The calendar displays are cleverly positioned: the day at 10 o'clock, the month at 2 o'clock, the date at 4:30 – the signature position of the El Primero movement – and a moon phase subtly integrated into the 60-minute counter at 6 o'clock. The faceted hands and hour markers in rose gold are enhanced with SuperLuminova SLN C1, ensuring legibility and depth of field, even in low light.

The 1/10th of a second timer, discreetly placed on the peripheral flange, reminds us that this watch is not just a beautiful object, but a measuring instrument of formidable precision.

A cutting-edge mechanical heart: El Primero 3610

At the heart of this timepiece beats the El Primero 3610 automatic caliber, a contemporary evolution of the legendary 1969 movement. Powered by a frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vph), it enables a 1/10th of a second display thanks to a central hand that completes a full rotation of the dial in just 10 seconds.

Despite the addition of a triple calendar module and a moon phase, ZENITH has managed to maintain a power reserve of 60 hours, offering comfort and autonomy. This module, far from being a “grafted” addition, is integrated with remarkable mechanical intelligence, making handling smooth and intuitive.

The transparent sapphire crystal case back reveals the beauty of the movement: the blue column wheel, signature of the El Primero chronograph, and an openwork oscillating weight proudly displaying the ZENITH star, with a meticulous satin finish.

Technical elegance for everyday wear

Mounted on a black calfskin strap with an 18-karat rose gold folding clasp, this piece is designed for lovers of fine watchmaking who are both sensitive to tradition and attentive to contemporary performance. Thanks to its 5 ATM water resistance, it remains practical for everyday wear without ever sacrificing its refinement.