Perfection
Zenith El Primero Chronomaster
Quick facts
Brand: Zenith
Model: Chronomaster Heritage 146
Reference: 03.2150.4069/51.C805
Year: 2017
Case: Stainless steel, 38mm, 12.5mm
Caliber: Zenith 4069, automatic
What about it
It exudes sophistication and subtlety, with proportions that are flawlessly balanced. Despite its understated design, it retains a remarkable presence and distinctive character.
The Zenith Heritage 146 Chronograph features the identical case as the original El Primero, the A386, with a 38mm diameter and the same timeless iconic design. Featuring the polished bevel, the brushed flat surfaces, and the distinctive cutaway lugs. While the look is undeniably vintage, it also feels that way on the wrist. It's truly a joy to wear a smaller chronograph.
Original A271 had caliber 146D (from Martel).
38
Diametermm
19
Lug widthmm
36000
Frequencyvph
50
Power h
Sapphire
Crystal
El Primero movement
The El Primero movement is a legendary milestone in horology, with over 50 years of uninterrupted production. Its creation in 1969 was the result of seven years of meticulous effort by Zenith's artisans, dedicated to developing the first fully integrated automatic chronograph movement. Instead of opting for the simpler route of adding a module to an existing movement, Zenith embarked on a more ambitious journey, introducing additional complexities. Key among these was the goal of achieving a higher beat frequency in the calibre, allowing the chronograph to measure time with incredible precision, down to 1/10th of a second.
Sunburst blue dial
The metallic sunburst blue dial, rhodium-plated hands, and rhodium-plated, faceted hour markers, combined with the two-register chronograph layout and no date (on an El Primero!) create a winning formula for a strikingly elegant design. It's the perfect timepiece for both casual and formal occasions. This watch could effortlessly serve as the centerpiece of a one-watch collection!
Market
Availability: rare
under 10 watches on sale
Pricing: 4,000 - 6,000+ €
(Jan 2025)
References
Related
