ZENITH Chronograph Watches

How to choose your ZENITH chronograph?

All ZENITH chronographs sold at Auberi use a version of the El Primero calibre, the world's first automatic high-frequency chronograph (36,000 vph, 1969). The differences lie in four areas: measurement frequency (1/10th of a second with calibre 3600; 1/5th with the classic calibre), case size (41 mm for the Sport / Skyline Chrono, 38–40 mm for the Original), additional complications (flyback on the Pilot Big Date, skeletonisation on the Open and Skeleton), and style (integrated sport vs. classic three-subdial). Your choice of ZENITH chronograph depends primarily on use: daily sport, dress, aviation or collecting.

Chronomaster Sport ★, El Primero 3600 calibre, 1/10th-second precision, integrated sport style, from €11,500 to €45,100.
Chronomaster Original, El Primero calibre, 1/5th-second precision, classic tri-compax style, from €10,300 to €24,700.
Chronomaster Open, El Primero Open calibre, 1/5th-second precision, open dial, from €10,300 to €24,700.
Pilot Big Date Flyback, El Primero 4062 calibre, flyback at 1/5th second, aviation spirit, around €12,800.
Chronomaster Sport Skeleton, skeletonised El Primero 3600 calibre, 1/10th-second precision, full skeletonisation, from €16,500 to €111,400, part of our Zenith skeleton watches range.

Prices range from €10,300 to over €45,100.

Which ZENITH chronograph for which profile?

1/10th second, sport design → Chronomaster Sport
Classic tri-compax chronograph → Chronomaster Original
Visible mechanics, horological passion → Chronomaster Open
Aviation and flyback → Pilot Big Date Flyback
Fully skeletonised exceptional piece → Chronomaster Sport Skeleton

The Auberi insight: the Chronomaster Sport is the best-selling ZENITH chronograph on the Côte d'Azur, its El Primero tricolour has become a landmark reference in Monaco and Cannes alike. For clients seeking a more classic chronograph, the Chronomaster Original 38 mm offers an elegant format that dresses up easily. Browse the full Chronomaster family to compare styles.

Frequently asked questions

What is a tri-compax chronograph?

A tri-compax (or three-register) chronograph features three independent subdials: typically running seconds (small seconds), elapsed minutes and elapsed hours. Arranged at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock, this architecture is characteristic of the Chronomaster Original and historic El Primero models.

Can a ZENITH chronograph be used for sports timing?

Yes. The El Primero is a precise and robust movement suited to regular chronometric use. The Chronomaster Sport, with its 1/10th-second function, is particularly accurate for measuring athletic performances. Its 100 m water resistance protects it during exposure to water in competition.

What is the power reserve of a ZENITH chronograph?

Power reserve is 60 hours on the Chronomaster Sport (El Primero 3600) and approximately 50 hours on other El Primero calibres. Running the chronograph does not significantly reduce the power reserve, the mainspring is dimensioned to power both functions simultaneously.

Is there a ZENITH chronograph under €10,000?

The most accessible is the Chronomaster Revival at around €9,500, followed by the Chronomaster Original from €10,300. There is no new ZENITH chronograph below €9,500 in the current range. Pre-owned pieces can approach €8,000 for models in good condition.

Can you see the chronograph mechanism activate from the dial?

Yes, particularly on the Chronomaster Open and Skeleton: the skeletonisation lets you see the column wheel change position when the chronograph starts or stops. On standard models, the rotation of the chronograph hands gives immediate visual confirmation of activation.

Discover more from ZENITH

Discover all ZENITH watches available at Auberi.

How to choose your ZENITH chronograph?

Which ZENITH chronograph for which profile?

Frequently asked questions

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