Zenith has just unveiled a new expression of its Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar, this time dressed in lapis lazuli, a bold move that merges high complication with artisanal charm. With its deep blue dial and intricate display, this new model is more than a watch—it’s a statement of refinement rooted in Zenith’s rich past and technical prowess.
Revisiting a Legacy: Zenith and the Triple Calendar Tradition
Founded in 1865, Zenith has long been a pillar of precision chronometry, with its legendary El Primero movement standing as a landmark in automatic chronograph development. The Chronomaster Original line pays tribute to the silhouette of the A386, introduced in 1969, but infuses it with modern capabilities and finishes. With the addition of a triple calendar and moonphase, Zenith reaches back into a tradition that has existed within its walls since the 1940s, when calendar chronographs were a staple of the maison’s offerings. This lapis lazuli version isn’t just a colorful variation—it represents a careful fusion of artistic material and technical mastery.
Under the Hood: A Contemporary Classic in Every Sense
Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case, this Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar maintains the proportions of the original A386 but packs significantly more functionality. The real centerpiece is the lapis lazuli dial, cut from natural stone, each piece unique in its pattern and mineral structure. The shimmering blue surface is accented by gold-tone indices and hands, echoing the celestial theme introduced by the moonphase at 6 o’clock.
The engine inside is the El Primero 3610, beating at 5Hz (36,000 vibrations/hour) and delivering 1/10th of a second chronograph precision. It offers a 60-hour power reserve, calendar indications (day, date, month), and a moonphase, all arranged in a perfectly legible and symmetrical layout. Despite the complexity, Zenith has managed to preserve the vintage-inspired lines and ergonomics of the case, complete with pump pushers and a box-shaped sapphire crystal.
Refined Style for the Discerning Collector
The lapis lazuli version of the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar is aimed at collectors who appreciate both mechanical complexity and aesthetic depth. This is not a sporty chronograph for everyday wear—it’s a dressy, elegant piece that makes a quiet but confident impression. Its design language echoes mid-century calendar chronographs, but the use of natural stone brings an organic, almost artisanal dimension to the watch.
It’s well suited to formal attire or collectors who favor unique dials over minimalism. And for those who care about the soul of the material, lapis lazuli—used in decorative arts since ancient Egypt—adds emotional and cultural weight to the piece. This is a watch for lovers of craftsmanship, not just mechanical engineering.
A Distinctive Addition to the Chronomaster Line
Zenith continues to impress by blending technical fluency with a clear design identity. The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli is priced at $22,700 USD, and while it is not officially listed as a limited edition, the natural material guarantees that no two pieces will be exactly the same. It is now available through Zenith boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide.
This new edition speaks volumes without shouting—subtle, intricate, and unapologetically beautiful. For those who see watches not only as instruments but as objects of emotion and taste, it’s a release worth savoring. If you’ve ever stood in front of a starry sky and felt time slow down, you’ll know exactly why this watch matters. And if you are more into tool watches, you should check out Zenith’s Defy Extreme Diver Shadow and Revival Diver Shadow.
