During Watches & Wonders 2022, Zenith unveiled the latest generation of the Chronomaster Open with a tri-colour dial that inventively reveals its high-frequency beating heart.
In 2003, Zenith introduced the Chronomaster Open with the aim of making the high frequency beating heart of its El Primero calibre as prominently visible as possible. It marked the first time in the history of watchmaking that a chronograph featured a partially open dial solely to reveal the regulating organ and escapement.
The Chronomaster Open was an instant hit, lauded for its daring design that is often imitated but never matched. For Zenith, the partially open dial has remained a prominent and coveted feature in many of its Chronomaster references for nearly 20 years.
With 2021’s introduction of the new and improved El Primero 3600 that boasts a 1/10th of a second chronograph function and improved efficiency, the time had come to adapt and incorporate the latest developments into the emblematic Chronomaster Open. More than a simple facelift, the new Chronomaster Open is imbued with the lines and attributes of the latest generation of the Chronomaster collection.
Revisiting the iconic tri-colour dial configuration that debuted with the iconic A386 in 1969 and which remains a distinctive and instantly recognizable El Primero design element, the latest iteration of the Chronomaster Open retains it entirely with a transparent twist.
Instead of cutting out the small seconds counter at 9 o’clock entirely as was the case with the previous versions of the Chronomaster Open, the three counter colours are retained thanks to a hesalite crystal element that serves as a readable sub-dial while allowing a view of the silicon star-shaped escape wheel.
The opening itself has also been reinterpreted, foregoing the former version’s applied “frame” and instead opting for circular openings with chamfered edges, revealing the movement with more straight bridges and a more contemporary grey tone.
Catering to the prevalent demand for watches with more modest proportions, the round case now measures 39.5mm wide compared to the previous 42mm model, with slimmer lugs and more pronounced polished bevels on the edges. The pump-style pushers now feature rounded tips for a more ergonomic touch. The steel bracelet option follows the contours and mixed polished and satin-brushed finishes of the case.
Visible through the sapphire display back, the El Primero 3604 1/10th of a second automatic chronograph movement is a modified version of the 3600 that debuted in the Chronomaster Sport, featuring an open base plate and bridges that allow for a clearer view of the high-frequency 5Hz escapement with lubricant-free silicon escape wheel and pallet lever. The automatic winding mechanism with an open star-shaped oscillating mass efficiently delivers a power reserve of 60 hours.
Available at all Zenith boutiques and authorized retailers around the world, the Chronomaster Open is available in steel with a white or black dial, delivered with either a steel bracelet or cordura-effect rubber strap.
A rose gold version featuring a white dial with a blue cordura-effect rubber strap is also introduced in the new line.
Technical details
Model: Zenith CHRONOMASTER OPEN
Movement
El Primero 3604 automatic
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second
Opening revealing the legendary beating heart of the El Primero movement
Silicon escape-wheel and lever
Stop-second mechanism
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: Approx. 60 hours
Finishes: New star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings
Functions
1/10th of a second chronograph functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Small seconds at 9 o’clock
Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds
60-minute counter at 6 o’clock
60-second counter at 3 o’clock
Zenith CHRONOMASTER OPEN, Reference: 03.3300.3604/21.M3300
Case
Diameter: 39.5mm
Material: Stainless Steel
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Dial
Black matte with two different-coloured counters & a translucent polymer counter
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet
Metal Bracelet with a double folding clasp
Price
9900 CHF
Zenith CHRONOMASTER OPEN, Reference: 03.3300.3604/69.M3300
Case
Material: Stainless Steel
Diameter: 39.5mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Dial
Silver matte with two different-coloured counters & a translucent polymer counter
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet
Metal Bracelet with a double folding clasp
Price
9,900 CHF
Zenith CHRONOMASTER OPEN, Reference: 18.3300.3604/69.C922
Case
Material: 18-ct Rose gold
Diameter: 39.5mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Dial
Silver matte with two different-coloured counters & a translucent polymer counter
Hour markers: Gold plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Gold plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet
Blue calfskin leather with a gold triple folding clasp
Price
19,900 CHF
