Zenith Chronomaster Original 03.3200.3600

The Zenith Chronomaster Original Ref. 03.3200.3600/69.C902 is a modern tribute to one of the most important chronographs in watchmaking history, the legendary Zenith El Primero A386 introduced in 1969. Released in 2021, the Chronomaster Original faithfully recreates the A386's iconic 38mm stainless steel case, preserving the compact proportions and distinctive pump-style chronograph pushers that defined the original. Its striking silver dial features Zenith's instantly recognizable overlapping tri-color subdials in shades of blue, anthracite, and light grey, complemented by a vibrant red central chronograph hand and a date window positioned between 4 and 5 o'clock. Applied rhodium-plated hour markers and faceted hands filled with Super-LumiNova provide excellent legibility, while the outer 1/10th-second timing scale adds a modern technical element to the vintage-inspired design. A domed sapphire crystal, sapphire exhibition caseback, 50 meters of water resistance, and a rich blue calfskin leather strap with a stainless steel folding clasp complete the classic racing-chronograph aesthetic.

Inside is Zenith's in-house El Primero 3600 automatic chronograph movement, a modern evolution of the groundbreaking high-frequency El Primero caliber introduced in 1969. Operating at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour, or 5 Hz, the movement allows the central chronograph hand to complete one full revolution every 10 seconds, providing an exceptionally precise 1/10th-second timing display. The 35-jewel column-wheel chronograph features running seconds at 9 o'clock, a 60-second counter at 3, and a 60-minute counter at 6, while delivering approximately 60 hours of power reserve. Visible through the sapphire caseback, the movement showcases Zenith's modern finishing and distinctive openworked rotor. The original El Primero was among the world's first automatic chronograph movements and remains one of the most celebrated achievements in Swiss mechanical watchmaking. With its historically inspired 38mm case, iconic tri-color dial, high-frequency El Primero 3600 movement, and elegant blue leather strap, the Chronomaster Original captures the character of Zenith's legendary 1969 chronograph while offering the precision and performance of a contemporary mechanical timepiece.

Reference: 03.3200.3600

Bracelet: Black Leather with Steel deployant

Case: 38mm - Stainless Steel

Movement: El Primero 3600 - Automatic

Functions: HMS, Date, 1/10th second Chronograph

Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes - no warranty card

Crystal: Sapphire

Bracelet size: 8"

Case has no wear. Strap has minimal normal creasing with no extra wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear.

Zenith was founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot in Le Locle, Switzerland, and is celebrated as one of the first watch manufactures to fully integrate every aspect of production under one roof. This groundbreaking approach laid the foundation for over a century of innovation and precision. Zenith’s most iconic achievement came in 1969 with the launch of the El Primero, one of the world’s first automatic chronograph movements—and still one of the most accurate, beating at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour. This movement would go on to power legendary models and even find its way into watches by other major Swiss brands.

Zenith’s current lineup honors its legacy while embracing modernity. The Chronomaster series continues to showcase the high-frequency prowess of the El Primero, offering split-second accuracy and open-heart dial designs. The Defy collection pushes the brand into futuristic territory with skeletonized dials, cutting-edge materials, and innovative escapements. Meanwhile, the Pilot line draws on Zenith’s history of aviation timepieces, featuring oversized crowns and vintage-inspired aesthetics. Known for its relentless pursuit of precision and its role in shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking, Zenith remains popular amongst collectors who value performance, heritage, and technical artistry in equal measure.