The Zenith Chronomaster Original gets a stunning blue upgrade
Zenith has taken one of its most iconic watches and given it a stunning midnight blue twist
Zenith has taken one of its most iconic watches and given it a stunning new twist. The Chronomaster Original – the spiritual descendant of the 1969 A386 and one of the first watches to house the legendary El Primero calibre – is now available with a stunning midnight blue dial.
It’s the first time Zenith has paired the Chronomaster Original with a full blue dial, and it’s a beauty. The brand’s signature tricolour subdials (grey, dark grey, and light blue) are still present and correct, but now they sit on a rich blue background that adds a classic edge to this classically styled chronograph.
The silver 1/10th of a second track circling the dial provides a crisp contrast, improving legibility while adding to the drama.
The 38mm stainless steel case stays true to the 1969 blueprint. It’s round and bezel-less, with pump-style pushers, faceted lugs, and a mix of polished and brushed finishes.
It’s compact, wearable and distinctly vintage in feel, though the performance under the hood is anything but…
Powering the watch is the El Primero 3600, Zenith’s updated high-frequency chronograph movement. It beats at 5Hz and tracks time down to 1/10th of a second via a central seconds hand that whips around the dial once every ten seconds.
It’s precise, fast, and visible through a sapphire case back that also reveals a column wheel and open-worked rotor.
Buyers get a choice of a classic three-link steel bracelet or a blue calfskin strap with matching stitching – both fitted with folding clasps.
Whether you go for steel or leather, this blue-dial Chronomaster feels like a fresh yet faithful tribute to a genuine horological icon. It’s available now from Zenith boutiques and the brand’s online store, priced at $10,300 / £9300.
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Spencer Hart
Buying Guide Editor 
