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Zenith Chronomaster

The Zenith Chronomaster combines heritage chronograph design with the El Primero movement's unmatched precision. Explore retro-inspired references and modern innovations online or in our Ardmore, Denver, Newport Beach, and Scottsdale showrooms.

17 Watches
17 Watches

The Zenith Chronomaster Collection - Legacy Meets Precision

The Chronomaster is Zenith's most enduring collection - a showcase for the legendary El Primero automatic chronograph movement, introduced in 1969. Known for its high-beat accuracy and instantly recognizable tri-color subdials, the Chronomaster bridges vintage inspiration with modern mechanical advancements. While the Defy collection embodies futuristic design, Chronomaster celebrates the timeless appeal of traditional chronographs, brought to life with Zenith's signature engineering.

Explore the Zenith Chronomaster Collection

The Zenith Chronomaster family is a direct descendent of one of the most important chronographs in watchmaking history: the El Primero. First launched in 1969, the El Primero was the world's first fully integrated, high-frequency automatic chronograph movement — and it remains a benchmark for precision to this day.

Chronomaster Original

Modeled after the original A386 from 1969, the Chronomaster Original features a compact 38mm case, box sapphire crystal, and Zenith's iconic overlapping tri-color subdials. It blends retro styling with a modern El Primero 3600 movement that measures elapsed time to the nearest 1/10th of a second.

Chronomaster Sport

The Chronomaster Sport is a contemporary evolution of the El Primero platform, pairing a 41mm case with ceramic bezels, open casebacks, and 1/10th second chronograph functionality. With steel and two-tone variants available, it offers everyday versatility with a performance-focused edge.

Chronomaster Open

The Chronomaster Open features a partially skeletonized dial that reveals the beating heart of the El Primero escapement at 10 o'clock. This visually striking configuration highlights Zenith's engineering artistry while retaining the practical chronograph layout.

Materials, Movements, and Finishes

Chronomaster watches are available in stainless steel, 18K gold, two-tone combinations, and ceramic bezel options. Strap choices include integrated bracelets, perforated leather, and rubber. At the core of every model is an El Primero high-beat movement — most frequently the 3600 caliber, which beats at 5Hz (36,000 vph) and allows for precise 1/10th second chronograph readouts.

Is Chronomaster Right for You?

The Chronomaster collection appeals to those who want a classically styled chronograph with serious mechanical performance. It's ideal for enthusiasts drawn to vintage-inspired details, high-frequency precision, and the legacy of El Primero. Compared to the bolder, more modern Defy collection , Chronomaster emphasizes timeless proportions and refined chronograph aesthetics.

The Zenith Experience at The 1916 Company

As an authorized Zenith Retailer , The 1916 Company offers Chronomaster models online and in our Ardmore (PA), Denver, Newport Beach, and Scottsdale showrooms. Every watch is delivered with factory warranty and personalized service from our expert Client Advisors. We're here to help you compare configurations, understand movement variations, and find the perfect Chronomaster for your collection.

Most Chronomaster models are powered by the El Primero 3600 — a high-frequency chronograph movement that measures elapsed time to 1/10th of a second and features a 60-hour power reserve.
The Chronomaster Original has a 38mm case and retro styling based on the 1969 A386. The Sport is 41mm with ceramic bezels and a more contemporary design.
Yes. Its mix of robust movement, steel or ceramic construction, and versatile size makes it well-suited to everyday wear — especially the Chronomaster Sport and Open variants.
The 1916 Company carries Zenith Chronomaster in our showrooms in Ardmore, Denver, Newport Beach, and Scottsdale. You can also consult our Client Advisors online for assistance.