Meet the Zenith Chronomaster Original Paris Edition

Paris has long been defined by its sense of harmony and proportion. From its grand Haussmannian boulevards and perfectly aligned façades to the carefully composed sightlines that connect its iconic landmarks, the French capital is a city shaped by architectural balance. Drawing inspiration from this distinctive urban character, Zenith this summer introduces the Chronomaster Original Paris Edition, a limited series of 50 watches created exclusively for the French market.

Inspired by the Legendary A386

The watch remains faithful to the proportions of the original El Primero A386 introduced in 1969. Modestly sized, its 38mm steel case features the same compact dimensions, pump-style chronograph pushers, tapered lugs, and box-shaped sapphire crystal that made the original model an icon. More than five decades later, the design remains remarkably contemporary. Its balanced silhouette and understated elegance make it a fitting tribute to a city where classic architecture and modern life coexist seamlessly.

A Verdigris Dial Reflecting the Paris Skyline

Created exclusively for this edition, the luminescent dial features a gradient verdigris finish with the legendary three chronograph counters executed tone-on-tone. The color references the green patina that develops naturally on copper surfaces over time and can be seen across many of Paris’ historic rooftops, domes, and architectural details. The gradient effect adds visual depth, while the monochromatic execution gives the chronograph a refined and contemporary appearance. Different shades of green create a dynamic display that changes with the light while preserving the characteristic legibility of the El Primero layout that includes the display of the tenth of a second through the central chronograph hand completing a full rotation every 10 seconds. There is also a date indication aboard, in typical Chronomaster fashion between 4 and 5 o'clock.

El Primero 3600: Precision to One-Tenth of a Second

Powering the Chronomaster Original Paris Edition is Zenith’s El Primero 3600 automatic chronograph movement. Operating at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), the caliber measures and displays elapsed time to one-tenth of a second. It also offers a power reserve of approximately 60 hours.

Visible through the sapphire case back, the movement features Zenith’s signature blue column wheel and an openworked star-shaped rotor. Beautifully finished, the caliber also includes a stop-seconds mechanism for precise time setting. Each sapphire case back is engraved with “ÉDITION PARIS” and individually numbered within the limited run of 50 pieces.

Debut of the ZENCLASP Folding Clasp

The watch is fitted to a stainless-steel bracelet equipped with Zenith’s new ZENCLASP folding clasp, first introduced at Watches and Wonders 2026. Developed over three years and comprising 41 components, including 10 ceramic balls, the clasp combines enhanced security with everyday comfort. A built-in micro-adjustment system allows tool-free sizing in 2.5-mm increments across a total adjustment range of 10mm. According to Zenith, durability testing simulated more than 10 years of daily use and over 600,000 opening and closing cycles. The Chronomaster Original Paris Edition is also delivered with an additional black nubuck strap and triple-folding clasp. Pricing is set at €11,800 or approximately $13,500 when converted to USD.

To learn more, visit Zenith, here.