INTRODUCING CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL TRIPLE CALENDAR LIMITED EDITION FOR HODINKEE
Lifestyle Web Release Selection By Editor_wr On Nov 17, 2024
Hodinkee, the leading destination for all things watches and horology, has once again teamed up with luxury watch manufacturer ZENITH for their third collaboration. Together, they are announcing the launch of the ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee. A celebration of ZENITH's legacy of innovation, the timepiece reinterprets the modern chronograph icon that is the ZENITH El Primero – and takes it to the next level.
For the first collaboration on the new CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar, Hodinkee saw a chance to create something truly special, knowing ZENITH is a brand unlike any other. One that is able to effortlessly marry the past, present, and future. Equipped with a new high-frequency caliber with a triple calendar and moon phase, the ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee is a tribute to a rare prototype El Primero from 1970. Nine years after production was halted, Zenith relaunched the ZENITH 3019 PHF this year, with the 1/10th of a second indication. Subtle in color but bold in material and movement, Hodinkee's design honors the original prototype while complementing the incredible accuracy of the 1/10th chronograph of the El Primero. The resulting timepiece is a stunning juxtaposition between past and present, slow and fast, and old and new.
This watch demonstrates the strength and versatility of the initial El Primero design while providing a silhouette that feels like a modern, well-made, and purpose-driven chronograph. It features a stainless steel case measuring 38mm wide and 14mm thick and a case and dial enclosed with a raised sapphire crystal, calling to mind the acrylic crystals found on vintage El Primeros like the A386. Unique to the blue serial production disc and gold-plated indexes of current collection pieces, this timepiece features a specially produced black moonphase disc and rhodium-plated indexes. Additionally, the typically gold-plated chronograph hand has been swapped out for white with this model, further emphasizing the modern twist on this classic design. The watch is delivered on a stainless steel bracelet, and a leather strap with a pin and buckle is included to complete the look and feel of a modern high-performance sports watch.
Housed inside the case and entirely visible through the caseback, the most significant change lives inside. Released in early 2024, ZENITH's new El Primero Caliber 3610 added a robust calendar movement to the existing El Primero Caliber 3600 by sharing the same high-beat rate and column-wheel design of the original El Primero movement, but with modern technical enhancements that ensure smooth running and reliability. For instance, the chronograph seconds hand traverses the dial once every ten seconds or six times per minute, a defining feature of Zenith's iconic 1/10th of a second chronograph.
A dynamic black dial and ZENITH's signature 4:30 date window serve as a balanced backdrop for the rest of the watch. When testing materials, Hodinkee and ZENITH looked to the past and incorporated slices of the Gibeon Meteorite—estimated to have formed 4.5 billion years ago within the molten core of an asteroid between Mars and Jupiter. This material features unique patterns as a result of meteorite cooling, meaning no two slices of meteorite, no two subdials, and no two ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee watches are alike.
Prev Post
Amadeus Gulf Hosts Exclusive NDC Workshops in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Comments are closed.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The National
04-04-2025
- The National
Black Book: Rimowa brings back 1980s nostalgia and Piaget names a watch after one of its most famous fans
Every week, The National's Luxury magazine team puts together Black Book, a cheat sheet of the most interesting and noteworthy arrivals in fashion, watches, jewellery and cars. The retro Holiday Case by Rimowa Rimowa, the German luggage maker founded in 1898, looks to the past for its latest release. The Holiday Case draws inspiration from a 1988 design aimed at a new kind of customer: the young, intrepid traveller. Nicknamed der Reisekoffer für junge Leute ('the travel case for young people'), the original marked a shift in tourism as the world began to open up. Today, that same spirit is revived in a retro-inspired, limited-edition case, finished in cheerful brights with reinforced corners. Designed for the young and the young at heart, it captures the joy and anticipation of adventures yet to come. Dh4,190 Lindberg's Air Titanium Rim sunglasses Danish eyewear brand Lindberg has unveiled its spring/summer 2025 collection. Rooted in Danish modern design, the new range strikes a balance between innovation and tradition, with frames that are lightweight, sleek, and well-proportioned. Each piece is handmade using responsibly sourced materials including titanium, platinum, gold, wood, diamonds, and buffalo horn. Founded in 1986 by optometrist Poul-Jorn Lindberg and his architect son Henrik, the brand's ethos is best exemplified by the Air Titanium Rim, crafted from twisted titanium wire to form its signature spiral hinge, eliminating the need for screws or rivets. From Dh2,171 Diamind Celestial Collection UAE-based lab-grown diamond jewellery brand Diamond has teamed up with British-Jordanian creative Hannah Rasekh on a new collection inspired by the night sky. Titled The Celestial Collection, it features elegantly minimal pieces crafted from lab-grown diamonds set in 18ct gold. Highlights include the Aurora bezel emerald-cut bracelet, boasting 11.6 carats of VS+ white diamonds, and the Zenith bracelet, a striking half-and-half design of gold chain and baguette-cut lab-grown stones. By focusing exclusively on lab-grown diamonds, Diamond eliminates uncertainty around provenance and offers top-grade stones at a more accessible price than mined diamonds. Chemically and visually identical with their natural counterparts, these diamonds can only be distinguished with specialised equipment. Zenith Bracelet, Dh6,280 The Andy Warhol watch by Piaget To honour arguably its most famous fan, Piaget has renamed the Black Tie watch the Andy Warhol. The 45mm 1972 original was Warhol's favourite – he owned seven Piaget watches – and in tribute to his love of colour, the brand unveiled new high-jewellery variations at Watches and Wonders in Geneva. Retaining the signature sweeping, curved case, one model features a dazzling blue opal dial framed by a triple row of baguette-cut sapphires. Another pairs a lustrous tiger's eye dial with a rich chocolate crocodile strap. A third showcases olive green meteorite within a white gold gadroon case and matching olive strap, while a final version features flecked white meteorite set in rose gold. Price on request Ascis X A. P. C Tennis Collection In a meeting of minds, Japanese trainer brand Asics and French fashion house A.P.C. have teamed up for a new Tennis Collection ahead of a summer of tennis tournaments in Europe, making this Asics's first-ever head-to-toe venture. Available in crisp blue and white or soft sunset tones, the collection channels a minimalist yet distinctive 1970s preppy vibe. Spanning 20 pieces, the women's line includes crew dresses, 2-in-1 shorts, and Sprinter shorts, while the men's range features tops, sleeveless tops, and shorts. Footwear comes in the form of an updated Gel-Sonoma 15-50, featuring A.P.C. lettering on the instep. Trainers, Dh790
Web Release
04-04-2025
- Web Release
G.F.J: A NEW COLLECTION BRINGS BACK AN ICONIC MOVEMENT TO CELEBRATE ZENITH'S 160TH ANNIVERSARY
When Georges Favre-Jacot established his manufacture in 1865, his objective was to create 'the perfect watch': the finest, most precise and most reliable timepiece ever made. This quest for perfection is reflected in the very name of his brand, ZENITH, referring to the highest point in the sky. To celebrate its 160th anniversary and its quest for excellence in all fields of watchmaking art, the brand releases a timeless classic powered by an exceptional movement. Named after the initials of Georges Favre-Jacot, the sleek, slender and elegant G.F.J. brings back to life the legendary calibre 135, the most awarded movement from the golden age of observatory chronometer competitions. ZENITH, Chronometry and the legendary calibre 135 Decades ago, observatory trials were extremely important. Beyond chronometric science, the fame associated with these timing competitions was considerable. Observatories witnessed and vouched for the level of precision that expert watchmakers were able to achieve. Aware of the prestige they could acquire, brands submitted specifically prepared movements to these trials. ZENITH took part in trials as early as 1897, and over the years, its movements have won a record 2,333 chronometry prizes, more than any other brand. Among these, a movement outshone all others, the legendary calibre 135. Designed by Ephrem Jobin at the request of Charles Ziegler, Technical Director of ZENITH, this chronometer calibre was specifically developed to compete in chronometry competitions at the Observatories of Neuchâtel, Geneva, Kew Teddington, or Besançon. Its name is derived from its dimensions, 13 lines (or 30mm, the maximum size allowed in the wristwatch category competition at the Neuchatel Observatory trial) and 5mm in thickness. It was produced from 1949 to 1962 in two distinct versions: a commercial variant (135), and an 'O' iteration (135-O) created exclusively for observatory chronometry trials. The calibre 135-O received 235 chronometry prizes, an absolute record in the history of watchmaking. Regulated by renowned Zenith 'chronome?triers' Charles Fleck and Rene? Gygax, this movement set an extraordinary record with five consecutive first prizes in the wristwatch category at the Neuchâtel Observatory, from 1950 to 1954. The calibre 135-O legend was revived in 2022 through an exceptional collaboration with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo. Ten vintage movements from the 1950-1954 'serial winning' years were restored and decorated to the highest degree possible by master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen within an ultra-exclusive limited edition that struck a deeply resonating chord with discerning collectors. Icons stand the test of time, and the beauty of having such a rich heritage is being able to share it. Today, ZENITH takes things a step further, resurrecting the Calibre 135 and bringing it into the 21st century. This new version of the movement uses the dimensions, the look and the architecture of its ancestor. It incorporates an offset center wheel, creating space to accommodate the oversized balance wheel that improves both precision and stability. Yet, far from being a reproduction of the historical calibre, it is a modern re-engineering that integrates up-to-date technical solutions and materials wherever possible. The barrel now delivers 72 hours of power reserve compared to 40 hours in the 1950s version. It drives a new gear train featuring an optimized tooth geometry for enhanced efficiency. Operating at 2.5 Hz, the balance wheel features regulation screws and a Breguet overcoil. A signature feature of the 135-O, the double arrow-shaped regulator allows for precise adjustment, while a stop-second mechanism has been added to set the time to the exact second. The balance staff is now protected by spring-mounted jewel settings. The movements are regulated to be precise within +/-2 seconds per day, and their precision is officially certified by the COSC. The sophisticated yet sober decoration of the calibre 135 is a testament to its history of excellence. Each component is meticulously finished. The bridges are distinguished by their 'brick' guilloché finishing, inspired by the distinctive façade of red and white-painted bricks of the ZENITH Manufacture that proudly spell out the letters G.F.J., the initials of Georges Favre-Jacot. The barrel features circular a satin finish and the crown wheel is black-polished. The large jewels add another refined touch. Perfection is in the details – the G.F.J. After 160 years, the ambition to create a watch at the Zenith of perfection continues to guide the brand's watchmakers. In tribute to this unique legacy, ZENITH designed a timepiece distilled to its quintessential characteristics, where perfection is in the details. True to the era of the calibre 135, the new G.F.J. watch captures the essence of the 1950s, seamlessly blending vintage elegance with contemporary accents. Its slender, elegant 39mm platinum round case features a stepped bezel and curved stepped lugs. Its thin profile and sculptural lines are graced by exceptional finishes with alternating brushed and polished surfaces. The notched crown is emblazoned with the G.F.J. initials. Beneath the sapphire glass box, the G.F.J. is adorned with a blue dial – the ZENITH signature colour symbolizing, together with the star logo, the brand's connection to the sky and its relentless search for precision. Its three-part construction creates a compelling sense of depth while meticulously crafted details add a refined touch of sophistication. The outer ring features a 'brick' guilloche? pattern, faceted white gold hour markers, and a discreet minute track of 40 white gold beads applied by hand. The central part is crafted from deep blue Lapis Lazuli, whose gold-colored pyrite flecks inevitably evoke a starry sky. Their natural texture makes each dial unique. Lastly, indicating the passing seconds, the oversized subdial at 6 o'clock is in mother-of-pearl. The hours, minutes, and seconds are indicated by thin baton-style white gold hands. The ZENITH G.F.J. comes with three different straps: a dark blue alligator leather strap, a black calfskin leather strap, and a blue 'Saffiano' calfskin leather strap. The platinum pin buckle is engraved with the G.F.J initials and the brick pattern. It is also available upon request with a seven-row platinum bracelet, whose center links are embossed with the brick pattern. 'Few movements in watchmaking history have achieved the level of chronometric excellence and recognition as the calibre 135. More than just a technical achievement, it became a true icon of precision. Bringing it back for our 160th anniversary is about honoring this legacy while sharing it with a new generation of collectors. With the G.F.J., we have reimagined this legendary movement, not simply as a nod to the past, but as a way to share a defining part of its heritage while offering a contemporary interpretation that resonates with today's spirit, and we are deeply proud of it.' Benoît de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH WATCHES. Released in a limited edition of 160 pieces, the G.F.J is available for pre-order exclusively from the brand's physical and online boutiques, as well as through authorized retailers worldwide. 3 questions to Romain Marietta, CPO of ZENITH Watches *Following the exclusive edition released with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips in 2022, why did ZENITH decide to re-create this legendary calibre? We decided to bring back the legendary calibre 135 as a celebration of our 160th anniversary and pay tribute to our Maison's rich watchmaking heritage. The exclusive 2022 edition, developed with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips, reignited interest among collectors and enthusiasts, highlighting the historical significance of this calibre for ZENITH. Building on that enthusiasm, we wanted to bring back this emblematic movement, not simply as a nod to the past but as a way to share a defining part of its legacy while offering a contemporary interpretation that resonates with today's spirit. What modern upgrades does this new calibre incorporate? While remaining faithful to the spirit and character of the original, the new calibre has been thoughtfully re-engineered to meet contemporary expectations. It benefits from subtle yet meaningful improvements that enhance its reliability, precision, and overall performance without compromising its true essence. The result is a movement that seamlessly blends the charm of its historical roots with modern advancements, ensuring it remains relevant and captivating for today's discerning collectors. *What were the key principles behind the design of the G.F.J. watch? It was all about striking the right balance—staying true to the original design while bringing a sense of modern refinement. The inspiration came from the clean lines, balanced proportions, and understated sophistication of the 1950s. Every detail was carefully thought out, from the harmonious case design to the beautifully refined dial and movement finishing. The idea was to create a watch that honors Georges Favre-Jacot's vision and legacy while offering a fresh take that speaks to both vintage lovers and modern collectors. As a subtle nod to the Manufacture's iconic façade and Favre-Jacot's ambitious dream of bringing every stage of production under one roof—even down to making the very bricks that built his empire—the guilloche? dial is designed with a unique brick pattern, a tribute to that pioneering spirit. 3 questions to Laurence Bodenmann, Head of Heritage of ZENITH Watches ZENITH has an exceptional history with precision watchmaking and observatory trials. To what extent were these competitions essential for watchmakers at the time? Observatory trials were highly significant for watchmakers, serving as the ultimate test of a movement's precision and technical quality. These competitions were more than just a pursuit of accolades; they represented a benchmark of excellence, with results that enhanced a brand's reputation and credibility, and they were one of the two most important moments of the year along with the watch fairs. Success in observatory trials was seen as a mark of distinction, confirming a watchmaker's technical mastery in an era when mechanical precision was paramount. For ZENITH, taking part in these competitions was a natural extension of its commitment to accuracy and precision, reflected in its record-breaking number of 2,333 prizes. It was the path chosen by its founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, to prove the manufacturing system he pioneered in the world of Swiss watchmaking would produce more reliable, more perfect watches. This long-standing involvement not only pushed the brand to innovate but also reinforced its position as a master of precision. What place does the calibre 135 hold in ZENITH's long tradition of precision watchmaking? The calibre 135 holds a truly exceptional place in ZENITH's history and in the broader landscape of watchmaking. Developed specifically for observatory competitions (135-O), it became the most awarded movement during the golden age of chronometry trials, earning numerous first-place distinctions, including a remarkable series of five consecutive wins at the Neuchâtel Observatory from 1950 ZENITH | | Rue des Billodes 34-36 | CH-2400 Le Locle International Media Relations – Email : [email protected] to 1954. What sets it apart is its extra-large balance wheel, which brings more inertia and shapes its entire architecture in a way never seen before. That is what makes it an icon in the world of watchmaking! How did the historical context of the 1950s influence the design of ZENITH's chronometers of the time? The 1950s were a time of bold graphic exploration and innovation—designers were pushing boundaries, creating lines that felt both fresh and timeless. That same spirit is reflected in the vintage chronometer 135, where elegance comes through in the perfect balance of proportions and meticulous high-end finishing. The goal was always to create something that would stand the test of time, appealing across generations. In 2025, ZENITH is taking this idea even further, refining and modernizing this 'forever design' for the next generation. ZENITH: THE HEART OF WATCHMAKING Founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, ZENITH has been at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking for over 160 years, driven by a pioneering spirit and a relentless pursuit of precision. As the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, ZENITH has continuously revolutionized horology by developing and manufacturing in-house movements, most notably the El Primero, the world's first automatic chronograph calibre launched in 1969, renowned for its unparalleled precision and high-frequency performance. ZENITH's timepieces celebrate its dedication to innovation and exceptional craftsmanship. The CHRONOMASTER collection highlights the brand's mastery of high-precision chronographs, the DEFY showcases technical innovation and bold design, while the PILOT collection celebrates ZENITH's storied aviation legacy with distinctive, adventure-ready timepieces. This unwavering commitment to precision has been recognized with an unparalleled 2,333 chronometry prizes, underscoring ZENITH's enduring legacy of excellence. The calibre 135, having won majority of those prizes went through a modern re-engineering integrating up-to-date technical solutions and materials. ZENITH decided to give it a new home in its newly introduced G.F.J collection. Throughout its history, ZENITH timepieces have accompanied pioneers who dared to dream big and achieve the extraordinary: from Louis Ble?riot's historic flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner's record-breaking stratospheric free-fall jump. This daring spirit continues to drive the Maison as it redefines the future of Swiss watchmaking. Celebrating over a century and a half of excellence, innovation, and purpose, ZENITH remains at the forefront of Swiss horology, empowering those who challenge conventions and strive for greatness. From Le Locle to the world, from 1865 to now, ZENITH is the heart of watchmaking. G.F.J. Reference: 40.1865.0135/51.C200 Key points: Rebirth of the Legendary calibre 135. Chronometer Certified. Breguet Hairspring. Stop-second mechanism. Exclusive Edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand: Platinum case, lapis lazuli dial and special 'bricks' guilloche finishing on the movement. Movement: calibre 135 manual Frequency: 18,000 VpH (2.5 Hz) Power reserve: 72 hours Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre. Small seconds at 6 o'clock. Finishes: Exclusive 160th Bricks guilloché Price: 48'900 CHF / 52'900 Euros / 49'900 USD Material: Platinum 950 Water resistance: 5 ATM Case: 39.15mm / Thickness: 10.5 mm / Lug to lug: 45.75 mm Dial: Blue bricks guilloché on the outer ring, lapis lazuli in the center and mother-of-pearl small second counter Hour markers: 18-ct white gold applied indices Hands: 18-ct white gold faceted Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 3 straps: Dark blue alligator leather strap with platinum pin buckle + black calfskin leather and blue 'Saffiano' calfskin leather. Optional for purchase: Platinum bracelet with double folding clasp
Web Release
17-11-2024
- Web Release
INTRODUCING CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL TRIPLE CALENDAR LIMITED EDITION FOR HODINKEE
Lifestyle Web Release Selection By Editor_wr On Nov 17, 2024 Hodinkee, the leading destination for all things watches and horology, has once again teamed up with luxury watch manufacturer ZENITH for their third collaboration. Together, they are announcing the launch of the ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee. A celebration of ZENITH's legacy of innovation, the timepiece reinterprets the modern chronograph icon that is the ZENITH El Primero – and takes it to the next level. For the first collaboration on the new CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar, Hodinkee saw a chance to create something truly special, knowing ZENITH is a brand unlike any other. One that is able to effortlessly marry the past, present, and future. Equipped with a new high-frequency caliber with a triple calendar and moon phase, the ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee is a tribute to a rare prototype El Primero from 1970. Nine years after production was halted, Zenith relaunched the ZENITH 3019 PHF this year, with the 1/10th of a second indication. Subtle in color but bold in material and movement, Hodinkee's design honors the original prototype while complementing the incredible accuracy of the 1/10th chronograph of the El Primero. The resulting timepiece is a stunning juxtaposition between past and present, slow and fast, and old and new. This watch demonstrates the strength and versatility of the initial El Primero design while providing a silhouette that feels like a modern, well-made, and purpose-driven chronograph. It features a stainless steel case measuring 38mm wide and 14mm thick and a case and dial enclosed with a raised sapphire crystal, calling to mind the acrylic crystals found on vintage El Primeros like the A386. Unique to the blue serial production disc and gold-plated indexes of current collection pieces, this timepiece features a specially produced black moonphase disc and rhodium-plated indexes. Additionally, the typically gold-plated chronograph hand has been swapped out for white with this model, further emphasizing the modern twist on this classic design. The watch is delivered on a stainless steel bracelet, and a leather strap with a pin and buckle is included to complete the look and feel of a modern high-performance sports watch. Housed inside the case and entirely visible through the caseback, the most significant change lives inside. Released in early 2024, ZENITH's new El Primero Caliber 3610 added a robust calendar movement to the existing El Primero Caliber 3600 by sharing the same high-beat rate and column-wheel design of the original El Primero movement, but with modern technical enhancements that ensure smooth running and reliability. For instance, the chronograph seconds hand traverses the dial once every ten seconds or six times per minute, a defining feature of Zenith's iconic 1/10th of a second chronograph. A dynamic black dial and ZENITH's signature 4:30 date window serve as a balanced backdrop for the rest of the watch. When testing materials, Hodinkee and ZENITH looked to the past and incorporated slices of the Gibeon Meteorite—estimated to have formed 4.5 billion years ago within the molten core of an asteroid between Mars and Jupiter. This material features unique patterns as a result of meteorite cooling, meaning no two slices of meteorite, no two subdials, and no two ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Limited Edition For Hodinkee watches are alike. Prev Post Amadeus Gulf Hosts Exclusive NDC Workshops in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Comments are closed.
