Sameera Gamage 
Zenith elevates heritage with a modern twist in the new Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar. Now presented in a luxurious rose gold case, it blends vintage-inspired design with cutting-edge chronograph performance!
Zenith has earned its name in the world of horology for their mastery in chronograph watchmaking, especially with the introduction of the El Primero movement. Launched in 1969, the El Primero movement was the world’s first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement, beating at an astonishing 36,000 VpH (5Hz) . This was a revolutionary achievement that solidified Zenith’s reputation as a trailblazer in precision timekeeping. Decades later, that same spirit of innovation continues to guide the brand, with modern interpretations that honour its past while pushing technical boundaries.
The Zenith Triple Calendar Chronograph is seen as one of the most iconic variations of the El Primero. What is not commonly known, however, is that the legendary high-frequency automatic chronograph movement was developed to accommodate the triple calendar and moon phase functions from the beginning. Zenith states that a series of prototypes were made, 25 to be exact, as early as 1970 using the round case design of the iconic A386 model.
While the prototypes may not have seen the light of day, Zenith introduced the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in 2024, bringing back the charm and complexity of its mid-century calendar chronographs. And just like the 25 prototype models that were initially made in 1970, these 2024 models with their harmonious proportions paid direct tribute to the iconic 1969 A386 model. While it featured both triple calendar complications and a chronograph, which would undoubtedly make the dial busy, the 2024 Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar timepieces were surprisingly legible, striking a perfect aesthetic balance between the complications.
Since its debut last year, Zenith has only presented the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in three variations: steel with a silver opaline panda dial, steel with slate grey and silver counters, and one of my personal favourites, the steel model with a stunning green dial and silver counters. We had the opportunity to go hands-on with the green-dial variant, and you can read Matt’s full thoughts below. Now, Zenith is presenting this paragon of watchmaking sophistication in a more “modern” version of 18-carat rose gold with a beautiful black dial and rose gold counters.
Related Reading: REVIEW: Hands On With The Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar
Case Design
Retaining the same 38mm case design as the steel models, this new 18-carat rose gold brings elegance and luxury to an otherwise sophisticated timepiece. Zenith presents the case with the same finishing techniques as the steel models. Firstly, we get the satin-brushed finishing on the surface of the lugs, while the side profile features a sleek polished finish. The vintage-inspired pump-style chronograph pushers, the crown with Zenith’s signature 5-pointed star, all feature a beautiful polished finish that matches nicely with the case.
Lastly, the bezel, finished in high polish, contrasts beautifully against the brushed surfaces of the lugs, creating a dynamic interplay of textures that catch the eye. In this new 18-carat case, the combination of finishing techniques produces a radiant gleam, which lends the case a refined sense of luxury and glamour that perfectly complements the timepiece’s vintage-inspired design.
Dial Design
The dial of the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar is a masterclass of balance and detail. The classic tri-compax layout seamlessly integrates the chronograph functions, while the triple calendar complication is shown through various apertures around the dial. Firstly, we get the month aperture at 2 o’clock, the date indicator between 4 and 5 o’clock and lastly the day-of-the-week indicator at 10 o’clock.
What I especially love about the aesthetic design of the triple calendar functions is that they have been colour-matched to the black dial, allowing them to blend in and make the dial appear less busy. The 6 o’clock sub-dial with its 60-minute counter also displays the moon phase indicator. This moonphase indicator has been executed perfectly to match the black and rose gold colours of the dial, with rose gold being shown on the chronograph counters, the hands and hour indices and lastly the 1/10th of a second chapter ring.
Movement
This latest Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar is powered by the automatic El Primero Calibre 3610 movement. This is a modern rendition of the legendary El Primeor Calibre that launched in 1969, now featuring a true 1/10th of a second function. On the dial, the graduations on the chapter ring are stepped precisely to mark the 1/10th of a second measurement, taking full advantage of the very high frequency movement of 5hz, which allows the chronograph to complete one revolution of the dial in 10 seconds.
What’s even more impressive is how Zenith was able to retain a high power reserve. Normally, to have a high frequency movement (4Hz~), the power reserve is sacrificed. However, Zenith has not only increased both the frequency and power reserve from the standard 40-50 hours to 60 hours, but they have also achieved this with the addition of the triple calendar complication, making this feat even more impressive.
Initial Thoughts
With the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar’s vintage-inspired 38mm case now donned in the warm and luxurious tone of 18-carat pink gold, Zenith has been able to honour its roots while offering a contemporary sense of sophistication. The integration of the triple calendar and moonphase complications alongside the chronograph is executed beautifully with a thoughtful design that prioritises legibility alongside aesthetic balance. This is certainly no easy feat for a timepiece as complex as this.
And that’s what the Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar is all about. Combining luxury aesthetics with a highly complex and historically significant movement. It’s a watch that doesn’t just tell time, but tells a story of innovation, heritage, and timeless elegance.
Specification: Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar (18.3400.3610/21.C911)
- Dimensions: 38mm x 14mm thick. Lug-to-lug: 46mm
- Case Material: 18-ct rose gold
- Dial: Black with rose gold-coloured counters. 1/10th chronograph scale in rose gold. 1/10th of a second chronograph functions. Complete Calendar (Day, Date & Month). Moonphase display. Small seconds at 9 o’clock, 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock, 60-second counter at 3 o’clock.
- Movement: In-house El Primero 3610 automatic
- Movement Power reserve: 60 hours operating at 5Hz (36,000 VpH)
- Crystal: Sapphire with antireflective coating on both sides.
- Bracelet/Strap: Black calfskin leather strap with 18-carat rose gold folding clasp
