Only Chronograph with Ancient Semi-Precious Stone in a Triple Calendar Design Created by Zenith
Zenith launches luxurious Lapis Lazuli dial version of its Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Chronograph
Zenith Watches has released a high-end rendition of its Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Chronograph, adorned with a captivating Lapis Lazuli dial. This version comes on the brand's 160th anniversary, adding to the collection's blue-themed releases initiated with their ceramic chronographs and platinum G.F.J. timepiece from Watches & Wonders.
Seemingly ordinary, yet intricate, the triple calendar chronograph resembles a Swiss Army knife in the realm of watchmaking, characterized by its versatility and typical high price point. Zenith holds a unique understanding of its value, having first prototyped the complication in 1969, only to shelve the idea until 2021.
Lapis Lazuli: The Rare and Celestial Dial
While combination watches with chronograph and calendar complications are common, those with this specific semi-precious stone dial remain elusive. The deep blue Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of the mineral Lazurite, along with other minerals such as calcite and pyrite. Its name originates from the Latin word "lapis," meaning "stone," and the Persian "lazhward," referring to its blue color and the region where it was mined.
Incorporating Lapis Lazuli in watch dials is a challenging practice due to the stone's brittleness. This factor contributes to the unique watch's significantly increased price compared to other stone or meteorite dial counterparts. The Lapis Lazuli dial's distinctive gold Pyrite inclusions create a celestial effect, adding an appealing touch to the timepiece's aesthetics.
Complex Yet Practical Design
Zenith opted for a more elaborate design, using a layered approach instead of an entirely Lapis Lazuli dial. The design features silver Azurage subdials placed at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, enhancing depth and legibility. A moonphase window at the 6 o'clock counter and subtle day and month windows at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions, respectively, are integrated into the dial without compromising its overall look.
The watch boasts a 38mm stainless steel case mimicking the original 1969 A386 case, complete with its distinctive pump pushers and five-pointed star on the crown. Though it falls on the smaller size for modern watches, the water resistance is rated at 50m, making it suitable for daily wear but not intended for swimming or water sports.
Inside the timepiece, Zenith's iconic El Primero 3610 automatic movement operates at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz). The movement ensures high-frequency timing, coupled with a 60-hour power reserve. Despite the added calendar complication, the watch maintains its coveted El Primero signature 36,000vph high-frequency chronograph.
The Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli comes with both a midnight blue calfskin strap and a stainless steel bracelet, offering versatility in styling options.
Luxury Pricing
Retailing at $22,700, the lapis lazuli version of the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Chronograph commands a substantial premium compared to the standard steel model, priced at $13,900. The watch's exclusivity, as the only lapis lazuli triple calendar chronograph in the market, justifies its high price point.
Specifications:- Model: Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli- Case Material: Stainless steel- Case Diameter: 38mm- Case Thickness: 14mm- Lug-to-Lug: 46mm- Movement: El Primero 3610 automatic- Frequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz)- Power Reserve: 60 hours- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, 1/10th second chronograph, day, date, month, moonphase- Water Resistance: 50m- Dial: Natural lapis lazuli with silver subdials- Strap: Blue calfskin leather and stainless steel bracelet (both included)- Limited Edition: No
The Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli stands as a masterful blend of Zenith's heritage in high-frequency chronographs, luxurious, eye-catching materials, and practical calendar complications. Available now through authorized dealers and Zenith boutiques, this model offers the perfect fusion of style and functionality for discerning watch enthusiasts.
The Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli incorporates advanced technology, boasting the El Primero 3610 automatic movement that operates at a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour.
The watch's distinct style is heightened by its unique Lapis Lazuli dial, which, despite being a challenging material to work with, contributes to its celestial-like appeal and sets it apart in the market.
