Zenith Chronomaster Revival A3817

Released in 1971, the A3817 was the exception to the rule. It combined the sportier steel tonneau-shaped case of the earliest steel El Primero references with the striking tri-colour dial of the A386, resulting in a unique and appealing aesthetic that continues to resonate with vintage chronograph enthusiasts. Given that only 1000 of the A3817 were ever produced, it remains one of the most distinguished, elusive and sought-after references among the early El Primero watches.

The Chronomaster Revival A3817 is crafted in the same angled tonneaushaped case with pump-style pushers as the original, using historical blueprints and reverse-engineering to preserve the original proportions and finishes. Zenith waited two years after the launch of the El Primero in 1969 before introducing the iconic tri-colour dial to its sportier tonneau case, albeit with a slightly different execution in both function and aesthetic when compared to the A386.

Like its progenitor of 1971, the Chronomaster Revival A3817 features a white lacquered dial with chronograph counters done in the instantly recognizable tones of grey and blue, with the running seconds counter at 9 o’clock done with blue markers, indicated by the single blue hand on the dial. The outer tachymeter scale also serves as a pulsometer, an especially handy and precise function provided by the high-frequency 5Hz (36’000 VpH) escapement of the El Primero movement. The seconds track is done in a pyramid pattern affectionately nicknamed the “shark tooth” scale, which enhances legibility with a distinctly retro touch.

Visible through the open display case back, one of the few differences between the original A3817 with a solid steel case back and the Revival model, one can admire the legendary El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph calibre that has remained a staple among chronograph movements for over 50 years.

Completing the retro look and feel of the Chronomaster Revival A3817, two strap options are proposed: The first is the steel “ladder” bracelet, a modern remake of the Gay Frères bracelets that became emblematic of the early El Primero watches, and the other is a light brown calf leather strap that will develop a patina unique to each wearer.

The Chronomaster Revival A3817 is undoubtedly a welcome addition to the collection for those who appreciate one of the rarer early steel El Primero references, faithfully reproduced with all the charm and performance of the original. The Chronomaster A3817 is exclusively available at Zenith Boutiques around the world as well as its online shop from May 2021.

Technical specifications:

Zenith Chronomaster Revival A3817

Reference: 03.A384.400/3817.M3817

Boutique edition

Case

• Material: Stainless steel
• Diameter: 37 mm
• Thickness: 12.6 mm
• Crystal: Box sapphire crystal
• Screwed sapphire crystal caseback
• Water-resistant to 50 meters

Dial and hands

• White-lacquered dial with three different-coloured counters
• Rhodium-plated hour-markers, faceted and coated with beige SuperLuminova®SLN
• Rhodium-plated hands, faceted and coated with beige SuperLuminova®SLN

Movement

• El Primero 400 Automatic
• Diameter: 30 mm
• Number of jewels: 31
• Number of parts: 278
• Frequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz)

Functions/Indications

• Hours, minutes, small seconds
• Chronograph with 30min and 12h counters

• Tachymeter scale

• Pulsometer scale
• Date

Strap and buckle

• Stainless steel "ladder" bracelet and double-folding clasp

MSRP: CHF 8'400

Zenith Chronomaster Revival A3817

Reference: 03.A384.400/3817.C855

Boutique edition

Case

• Material: Stainless steel
• Diameter: 37 mm
• Thickness: 12.6 mm
• Crystal: Box sapphire crystal
• Screwed sapphire crystal caseback
• Water-resistant to 50 meters

Dial and hands

• White-lacquered dial with three different-coloured counters
• Rhodium-plated hour-markers, faceted and coated with beige SuperLuminova®SLN
• Rhodium-plated hands, faceted and coated with beige SuperLuminova®SLN

Movement

• El Primero 400 Automatic
• Diameter: 30 mm
• Number of jewels: 31
• Number of parts: 278
• Frequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz)

Functions/Indications

• Hours, minutes, small seconds
• Chronograph with 30min and 12h counters
• Tachymeter scale
• Pulsometer scale
• Date

Strap and buckle

• Light brown calfskin leather strap with protective rubber lining
• Stainless steel pin buckle

MSRP: CHF 7'900

For more information, please visit zenith-watches.com