BaselWorld 2015: Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto
Ornatus-Mundi
During BaselWorld 2015 Zenith presented a thematic watch geared towards the tastes of true petrol-heads: The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto Edition . A watch that - I confess - evoked mixed feelings with me, conceptually, but is a compelling offering on its own merits (if one looks a bit deeper - pun intended!):
What differentiates this watch from the standard El Primero with open escapement is quite obvious: The coloured striping paying homage to the Tricolore, the French flag:
... perfectly extended beyond the face:
The strap is a nod to the gloves formerly worn by the drivers of classic cars: perforated blue calfskin with a black protective rubber lining immediately create the association with sports cars and speed.
Matching to sports and speed, the watch is secured with the folding buckle:
But there is more detail in this watch - and this is what makes it interesting:
First, of all, the rhodium-plated dial surface is brushed in the 6 – 12 o’clock direction to ensure consistency with its lines.
The opaline silver-toned tachymetric scale makes a striking contrast with the inner blue ring and its white graduations, while the 300 divisions displaying units of measurement all the way down to the fifth-of-a-second chronograph times are indicated on red and blue transfers.
The hollowed and snailed 30-minute and 12-hour counters at 3 and 6 o’clock are surrounded by a blue circular satin-brushed rim. Like all chronograph models in the line (apart from ladies’ watches), the central sweep-seconds hand is fitted with a star-shaped counterpoise. The one on this model, along with the counter hands, is red to enhance the legibility of the chronograph times. To ensure smooth overall aesthetic consistency, the small-seconds trident appearing through the “Open” window at 9 o’clock is composed of blue-white-red colours.
One particular detail that connoisseurs are sure to note: the mushroom-type push-pieces for the chronograph functions each feature a coloured groove: blue for the chronograph start & stop, red for the reset.
Corresponding to an opened hood allowing the view on a car's race engine, Zenith has chosen the Open model as the base for this watch. Thus, a view on a highly tuned motor is possible from both sides, the back and the face alike. The latter is particularly interesting since the movement is regulated by a silicon escapement:
The back of the steel case reveals he well-known El Primero movement (El Primero 4061, automatic with silicon escapement parts). It bears two inscriptions in particular: the Tour Auto logo (on the sapphire crystal) and the serial number.
Being critical in view of 'thematic' watches, I was surprised how well the watch matches to various wrists and styles. First, on my rather standard wrist with a darker attire:
Later a bit more flamboyant - the Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto makes a perfect appearance with lots of presence!
I like the following shots particularly as the convey the energy that exudes from this timepiece:
Ready for a ride with the 8-cylinder? - SURE!
Oliver tried it as well with his slightly smaller wrist - likewise, the watch fits nicely.
To sum up, Zenith created a watch for petrol-heads, but for those who like it a bit more discreet and still functionally consistent with its theme.
Here, Zenith succeeded and in addition made the watch suitable for more occasions than just a reunion with your racing pals. It still certainly not for everyone but I can see its attraction for people with an active lifestyle. Furhermore, the new 42mm standard for Zenith watches appear to be something like the golden measure for this particular case design.
The El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Auto Edition is issued in a 500-piece special limited edition.
Thanks for reading,
Magnus
Comments:
blomman Mr Blue April 13th, 2015-14:12
Thank you for this report, Magnus! A very sporty version of the El Primero! :) I really like the sportiness, personally I would have preferred with out the "hole" in the dial.... But that might just be me.... Best Blomman
Ornatus-Mundi April 14th, 2015-08:57
Well. I'd consider it the equivalent of this... would you complain (pic from the net)? Cheers, Magnus ...
blomman Mr Blue April 14th, 2015-23:35
I have to confess that I am no petrol head..... So that view don't really add any excitment to me.... LOL! A cosy backseat would do it for me! ;) I understand your point, but by some reason, when it comes to watches - I prefer open or closed. Semi open very seldom do it for me. Best Blomman
jrwong23 (aka watchthebin) April 15th, 2015-07:25
I like this special limited edition Magnus! Its more flamboyant and fun I feel. I love its looks even though I am not a racing car fan. Very nice report thank you! Cheers Robin
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foversta
Zenith unveils the El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Tour Auto Edition
foversta
The El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Tour Auto Edition is not a mere Zenith watch. First of all, it is a LE of 500 pieces and when we consider it, we don't see that often limited editions from Zenith. But more importantly, it symbolizes the new involvement of Zenith with the Tour Auto Optic 2000, replacing the former watchmaking partner of the race, Hublot. The contract with the event stays in the same group (LVMH) and it is after all pure logic since with this new partnership, Zenith gives a proof of its increasing commitment with the world of motor races.
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