Having just found your channel recently, I must commend you for your objectivity and balance in your TH-cam content. Your ability to present various perspectives with fairness and impartiality is admirable. Maintaining objectivity while delivering engaging content sets a commendable standard in the digital sphere. I'm now subscribed.
This is very good value but the Breitling looks prettier in my humble opinion. That being said 13mm thickness is deeply impressive! Have a good one Mike!
I went to Brietling recently to try on a Premier, with similar dial. Now I know I'm running up on 50 y/o but I could not read the dial and, it was even more difficult from the lack of contrast and shine of the watch. I tried on two dial colors, then just accepted the fact it was not for me. (Went next door and tried on the Omega Speedmaster professional, and my eyesight checked out fine)
The Most important Or Prominent Aspect of a Watch is It's Style and Originality....of which this One Has None. It's pathetically Generic looking like 10000s of Watches Out there!
Great review Mike! Another swiss option but clearly on a cheaper league would be the Longines Master collection option. Same functions, 14 mm thick for $3,850 but that piece lacks in aesthetics and symmetry...
Great video. Re: positioning of day, date, month indicators on triple calendar moonphase chronos, I am a fan of the ETA 7751 which has day and month at 12 and a pointer date. I personally like its 12, 6, 9 sub-dial layout with the logo at 3 but many don't. Due to ETA snobbery there are bargains to be had. E.g. I bought a used 38mm solid gold Eterna powered by it for $1.8k.
I have a mid-nineties El Primero triple calendar that has a very similar layout. I have not measures the thickness, but I marvel at how thin it is for what it does.
I am a Zenith fan, but I can't afford any. That one made it to the top of my Zenith list, of which I thought the a384 would never leave the #1 spot. The Zenith Defy Revival Shadow is also lovely.
Like the content, the dial is too busy, less would be more, if only JLC brought back their prices where they were to a competitive level it would be no contest for me..
Hello from Switzerland. I have ben watching all your videos in the course of the this week. I did not get bored or tired but enjoyed thoroughly every minute. I like your approach to watches. We do not necessarily have the same taste but that makes it even more interesting. Sometime you talk about watches I will never be able to afford. What the heck … I did learn a lot. Like you, I shy away from the very popular watches that everybody wants to have. I prefere underrated watches. I recently added the Omega Railmaster to my little collection. Nobody is buying that watch but I enjoy it so much. Thank you for all the work you put into making these videos. Look forward to the next one 😜
A Zenith will be my next watch. Looking forward to what else they release this year. Though, I'm so in love with my large Cartier Santos. It's just an absolutely beautiful watch for me, sheer perfection. ❤
Zenith is an interesting brand. It’s the brand that is more often associated with a movement and not a watch. Zenith is El Primero. It’s such an achievement that it’ll probably stay this way regardless of what Zenith will do. Their design has never spoken to me, aside from the Defy Classic Skeleton.
This is a great video, but I almost wish I didn’t see it😂. I didn’t know about this release and frankly hadn’t ever thought much about Zenith, but after seeing this, I can’t get this watch out of my head. I feel like I may have a Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar-sized hole in my wallet later this year…
Great review! Why can’t manufacturers make more chronographs with these type of dimensions. I don’t like yellow gold. Would love to purchase if they can make the markers and hands white gold.
I am a big fan of Zenith I own about 12 of them from vintage to recent this release is great but why those colours. When it comes out with a blue dial and silver hand I will buy it but like you I don’t like the gold hand nor the colour they chose for their initial batches . Also you are 100% right about the lousy quality of the Zenith bracelet except for some of the new Defy one but again no micro adjustment without tools !!! This is 2024!!! Great review
I have the vintage 1970 Movado Astronic triple calendar moonphase with the El Primero movement and zenith bracelet. It’s a stunning watch and perhaps a better value than the modern version. It has the same day, date, month layout too.
Hi Johan. Love your content. I'm wondering what do you think compering this Zenith and Breitling to the Longines Master Collection? I think that Longines Master Collection has the best value proposition when it goes to those complications. Plus it looks really elegant and clean with white dial and steal bracelet. Stay safe 😁 👍
Do the Swiss 🇨🇭wear bracelet watches loose? I wear close-fitting bracelets where easy adjustments are important to me. For $14k Zenith could try a little harder on the clasp 😎!
I just tried the panda version yesterday, in dubai. This watch looks much better on a strap, I agree. I liked how versatile it can be, in my opinion it can be dressed up or down. Buying it used or from an authorised dealer with +20% off is the way to go, cheers!
The El Primero movement is possibly the best integrated chronograph movement in the price range. Hence the Zenith Chronomasters are real value all things considered.
I completely agree with your opinion on the bracelet, and a few of your other points. I finally got to try one of these on while in London a few weeks ago, and for something at this price point, there is no excuse for the quality of the bracelet, and the lack of clasp adjustment. I also don't care for the multi-colored sub dials. At this price point the only Chronomaster I would consider is the pink, where the sub-dials match the main dial, but then you still have the issues with the bracelet. But I also agree that the quality of the movement along with the number of complications you are getting here, equates to a lot of value compared to the rest of the market. But when comparing it to the JLC Master Control Calendar, I think most people would pay more, and not have compromised on so many concessions that are present in the Zenith.
I’d have to try it on the bracelet before I make a comment. But I think the gold hands warm it up and make it look distinctive. I’m going to try this on at local AD but this could very well be my next luxury purchase and I didn’t see that coming from zenith. I’ve always liked them but never hit the spot. This one does. It’s much more distinctive than its obvious counterpart the Daytona now.
I was thinking like you at first. I was all over it. But I just couldn't bring myself to buy it. Zenith is just not a good vibe as a brand. I chose the mojawe desert ceramic 41 chronograph by iwc instead for even a little bit more cash but I couldn't be happier with it. Suits my more active lifestyle better.
Great buy. Two things that make the IWC better imo. First the symmetry of the dial. You can't get around the fact that an annual calendar takes up a lot of real estate. Zenith did a bad thing by trying to force too much info into 38mm. Also, the color choice and strap are more will suited with the IWC. The metal bracelet doesn't fit with the Zenith aside from the fact that it's poor quality.
By looks alone, Breitling for me, but I can't come up with any rationale for a chrono, particularly considering all the negatives it brings - chunkiness, reduced legibility, & higher service costs.
Mike, would you say the inferior bracelet is the counter argument of the old adage: “buy it on the bracelet”, given it’s the same MSRP as the one on the strap?
Do the date and month indications set in either direction for international dateline crossings? Having to go through a year on the return would be aggravating. It’s why I like the sky dweller (it goes in either direction).
New white SpeedMaster is a hugely more attractive proposition that the Zenith - which, at 38mm is too small for a chronograph - unless you are a girl, an Asian or have a spaghetti wrist.
As much as I also like the 38mm size, this watch to me really needs to be in the Chronomaster Sport's 41mm case so the date window at 4.5 doesn't cut into the tracks at the edge. Every time I saw that watch, my eyes go right to that date window. There has to be a better solution for a $14k watch.
I was ready to pull the trigger on the chronometer original but then I heard Zenith primero 3600 issues online. Despite that, I convinced myself that those are outliers. Went into an AD to try one on and saw some of the exact same issues on the display model too (ie seconds hand not perfectly aligned when chronograph is not running and the start button not always triggering the chronograph). Coincidence or not, that genuinely turned me off and I ended up walking away!
I always wait in anticipation for your Saturday morning video to drop! :) I think the overlapping sub dial was charming on the standard 38mm models. I feel like if they kept it across more models, it would be iconic for their brand. I really am disappointed with the bracelets not being improved. How do you feel they compare to Grand Seiko bracelets?
I saw this release and was immediately taken by how they managed to make a triple calendar chronograph with moonphase this compact! It’s certainly not new for Zenith, they’ve done this before but I really like the panda configuration and the gold does pop off. I do have a question though, I’ve seen some reviewers say the bracelet on the Chronomaster Original doesn’t drape straight down so it might be problematic to get a perfect fit. What is your experience with this? Thanks for another great video, I look forward to your content and insights :) cheers!
I really like this and had a chance to try on my 7" wrist at a local AD. I think if one is on a tight budget, BUT, have the means and desire to get one very good luxury watch that checks off many boxes, this would be it. The compact size that houses quite a good # of complications and price it's all for is actually pretty reasonable considering some of the closest comparisons. IF I were in the market for one, there is one niggle that I may have to get used to. The original case and specifically the lugs. They don't angle down as much, are higher than the case back, and this hover with an obvious gap between the lugs and wrist. Compare that to a Chronomaster Sport which is larger, the case shape and lugs actually curve down and form around the wrist much better. Just saying it's a visual anomaly on the perpetual moon phase chronograph that may keep some from considering it if a watch has to absolutely fit perfectly around the wrist.
That Zenith is a good looking watch. But for me, it looks too small on my wrist. There are Speedmasters available with the triple calendar and moonphase. Not sure if they are current offerings but I've seen used ones for less than 4k USD.
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatcha384 awesome, just wish they modernized the bracelet and dial dimensionality a bit like in the Sport, the dial looks a bit flat...
Zenith have always been better than Omega. The latter churns out dozens of versions of basically the same watch, Zenith is top notch at very reasonable prices and has great history, model diversity and class!
SPEEDY doesn't move over for any Chronograph it is a ICON owned by most Rolex,Patek,AP and Omega fanboys and owners no collection is complete without one!!!!!FACTS!!!!!!!!
Nice movement and watch overall. I suspect the overhaul would be pricey in 5 yrs time. Good dimensions. Interesting but not taken with it. Regards, Chris
It’s a fabulous watch, but unfortunately it’s very expensive, this is one where people like me can’t say it’s unjustifiably expensive . That tag Glass box is looking better by the day.😂
Seriously think chronographs are a boy thing. Unfortunately, I shop for boys (brothers, nephews, and godson). My migraine addled brain can’t follow it. I agree with others about leaving off the calendar functions. But I appreciate you describing how to view one, especially the no overlapping. It helped me give voice the ones I hate the most. Though I also include the ones without circles that fade into a dark background.
I have worn it now. Gorgeous watch still, but I do think the calendar could do with more space. As for the gold hands, you barely notice it. It dropped a little in my love but still a good watch 😀😀
I’m thinking of your recent video on JLC. They’re not the best at this and they’re not the best of that. As far as I’m concerned Zenith has the same problem. But JLC watches are beautiful, not the bling that sells for high end today but beautiful. Zenith watch look quirky. Totally respect the brand it’s remarkable but I don’t think this is the release of the year. I don’t even think it’s all that special. 😊
Zenith are a very underrated watch brand, they are up there, in Steel sports watches there is only really Rolex and grand sekio ahead of them (only just) unless you are very rich and want to spend tens of thousands on a watch, which is only a couple of percent better in real terms.
curiously - and this is why watches are so much fun - your highlights of this watch are my lowlights. At 38mm its hopelessly compromised, its too small - indications are in weird places, theres a wide tachy scale and second track eating into a dial thats already pretty compressed and as a result the calendar readouts and subregisters are too small and essentially pointless. I get that 38mm is wearable and as an image its pretty enough but whats the point of a watch you can wear but not read. Just because you can make a triple calendar in 38mm doesnt mean you should.
To each their own. I knew when I saw it that it would be divisive. 38mm = not a lot of space. Some people are going to hate that. Others will think that it's an achievement. We like what we like 😊
I commend Zenith for the technical ability to squeeze so much in a small package. I still don't give a damn about small watches. Sub 40mm watches (especially with advanced complications) don't allow the design to breathe. Say what you want about a 42 or 45mm with the same complications, legibility will not be your complaint. The race to miniaturization is not actually a good idea in my opinion.
Completely agree, this watch would benefit plenty from a 42mm diameter, and I don't get the obsession with thin cases either. I want to see and feel some heft and presence from a chronograph. Any thinner than 15mm and I'm not interested. I guess we all have our likes and dislikes. Prefer arabic numerals too Still, enjoy listening to his videos, very eloquent and well considered. Bit of South African in the accent ?
It is a fair point to raise. It's kind of a rock and a hard place: The complication and dial at 42 or 44mm looks better but wears worse on the wrist. 38mm. Wears better but will feel cramped... Design decisions at the end of the day 😊
No actually. Handled it at watches and wonders and it's a very nice watch but I concluded that it was nice but the window positions just kept throwing me off. Regular Zenith Chronomaster is the way to go I think 😃
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch fair call!….i like where your head is at. I’ve picked up a pre owned zenith 40mm pilot, it’s a great daily!…tempted to liquidate the submariner if I can pickup the Chronomaster Original at a great discount to retail.
The JLC dial has a cleaner look,but the Zenith case(at least on a watch strap)looks too big for the strap ,giving it a squarish and chunky look! Finally, there's that price.........
It's not often that I disagree with what you say, but I will in this case. It's a nice watch, but the pricing is just exorbitant. This very movement / functions combination has existed in Zenith's catalogue for at least 25 years, so it's not like they had to front any extra investment for it. And just because the Daytona is overpriced and JLC has utterly lost the plot on pricing doesn't make this model a value proposition.
Fair enough - Opinions can't and shouldn't align all the time - it's where the differences of opinion are that perspective is added to a topic. cheers 😊
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Curious, have you been to the Yebo Beach Haus restaurant in Atlanta, GA, US? I am not qualified to judge the authenticity of food, but it looks good. 😏
Btw have you not tried this in person yet? The whole video was on impression out of press/ social media which was fine at the time due to limited availability. It’s been 6 months and it’s available almost everywhere. I would think a follow up video or update is required when u make video based only on first impression; that too not in person! Otherwise it’s the same Hodinkee/ influencer story!
I think they over-egged the chronograph-pudding. Most chrono-dials are busy enough with "just" the three large hands and three sub-dials and their hands. Squeezing in a date, day and month complication *and* making one of the sub-dials multi-functional with that moon-phase indicator is just too much. Especially on a watch with a smaller case diameter and thus smaller dial. I guess legibility at a glance isn't *really* the point with a product like this, but it *is* still a wrist-watch, after all .. Perhaps that's the reason why they went with the yellow gold hands. In my experience, panda-dial chronos with silver colored hands can be pretty hard to read, even without any added complications on the dial.
A beautiful piece but that Zenith case is unwearable. Lugs shoot out completely horizontally, leading to a huge gap between them and the wrist Problem made even worse on bracelet without articulating end links
Hi Mike, I've seen a couple of your videos, share a lot of your opinions and regret not having stumbled upon your channel before now. Where in DK are you based? Send me a pm
Way too busy for a 38mm. The small size makes it unreadable. I have the Paul Picot Telemeter and it suffers the same problem. It's a 40mm, but the dial is small so it wears like a 36mm. Beautiful watch, but useless as a chronometer because the subdials and indices are just too small to be readable.
I would love to love a Zenith enough to buy one, but that's not really a looker IMO, Date windows are rarely pretty, but that one has got to be the worse I have seen! It looks like The Princess of Wales photoshopped it.
People with $15k for a single watch are very likely to have $20k for a single watch. And they'd choose the JLC, which is a clear upgrade to the Zenith.
I don’t feel it’s a clear upgrade at all, and I don’t have any skin in the game. The JLC is a bit conservative and boring. Dare I say a little Fredrick constant.
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch I knew that Scandinavians spoke English well, never thought they’d pick up a South African accent lol. Health and happiness, brother. Love your reviews.
Never really liked any of Zenith watches! Defys are plain ugly and overly engineered. Chronomasters are halfway homage halfway who knows what! Who needs that showoffy 1/10 of a second anyway?! God forbid if it breaks down or needs servicing. The bracelets suck and they're primitive looking. Oversized chrono pushers sticking out like radio antenna too close to the crown. Tricolor subdials look kind of nice but not when they're overlapped. Let's see, what else... Tripple calender on a 38m watch?! Sounds like owner must always carry a magnifier in pocket! 38mm is hardly big enough for a three hander nowadays for adult's wrist size let alone a chronograph! What an insanity,lol.
A very good analyses of this Zenith watch! I can fully underline your argumentation there! Well done, go ahead!
Having just found your channel recently, I must commend you for your objectivity and balance in your TH-cam content. Your ability to present various perspectives with fairness and impartiality is admirable. Maintaining objectivity while delivering engaging content sets a commendable standard in the digital sphere. I'm now subscribed.
Welcome aboard, and thanks - Generally I'm not as averse to the "both sides" approach as seems to be the case these days 😀
This is very good value but the Breitling looks prettier in my humble opinion. That being said 13mm thickness is deeply impressive! Have a good one Mike!
Fair enough . Have a great day 😊
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch 😄👌
I went to Brietling recently to try on a Premier, with similar dial. Now I know I'm running up on 50 y/o but I could not read the dial and, it was even more difficult from the lack of contrast and shine of the watch. I tried on two dial colors, then just accepted the fact it was not for me.
(Went next door and tried on the Omega Speedmaster professional, and my eyesight checked out fine)
The Most important Or Prominent Aspect of a Watch is It's Style and Originality....of which this One Has None. It's pathetically Generic looking like 10000s of Watches Out there!
@@highwaystar3780 Well said. This is not something I would pick up.
Great review Mike! Another swiss option but clearly on a cheaper league would be the Longines Master collection option. Same functions, 14 mm thick for $3,850 but that piece lacks in aesthetics and symmetry...
Great video. Re: positioning of day, date, month indicators on triple calendar moonphase chronos, I am a fan of the ETA 7751 which has day and month at 12 and a pointer date. I personally like its 12, 6, 9 sub-dial layout with the logo at 3 but many don't.
Due to ETA snobbery there are bargains to be had. E.g. I bought a used 38mm solid gold Eterna powered by it for $1.8k.
I have a mid-nineties El Primero triple calendar that has a very similar layout. I have not measures the thickness, but I marvel at how thin it is for what it does.
I am a Zenith fan, but I can't afford any. That one made it to the top of my Zenith list, of which I thought the a384 would never leave the #1 spot.
The Zenith Defy Revival Shadow is also lovely.
The JLC with 10bar would be my one watch collection!
It is a very nice watch 😊
Best analysis watch channel! ❤👍🏻
Appreciate that 😊
Like the content, the dial is too busy, less would be more, if only JLC brought back their prices where they were to a competitive level it would be no contest for me..
Hello from Switzerland. I have ben watching all your videos in the course of the this week. I did not get bored or tired but enjoyed thoroughly every minute. I like your approach to watches. We do not necessarily have the same taste but that makes it even more interesting. Sometime you talk about watches I will never be able to afford. What the heck … I did learn a lot. Like you, I shy away from the very popular watches that everybody wants to have. I prefere underrated watches. I recently added the Omega Railmaster to my little collection. Nobody is buying that watch but I enjoy it so much. Thank you for all the work you put into making these videos. Look forward to the next one 😜
Good call on the railmaster (and thanks for watching my vids) 😃
A Zenith will be my next watch. Looking forward to what else they release this year. Though, I'm so in love with my large Cartier Santos. It's just an absolutely beautiful watch for me, sheer perfection. ❤
The Datora and the Daytona have 10bar though. This makes it very easy to wear imo
Zenith is an interesting brand. It’s the brand that is more often associated with a movement and not a watch. Zenith is El Primero.
It’s such an achievement that it’ll probably stay this way regardless of what Zenith will do.
Their design has never spoken to me, aside from the Defy Classic Skeleton.
I got one from my AD about 3 weeks ago! I love owning it, but definitely switched to a leather strap
Lucky you 😊
This is a great video, but I almost wish I didn’t see it😂. I didn’t know about this release and frankly hadn’t ever thought much about Zenith, but after seeing this, I can’t get this watch out of my head.
I feel like I may have a Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar-sized hole in my wallet later this year…
My apologies 😃😂
I'm in a multicolor chronomaster sport team. In rose gold it's my favorite design.
Nice mini review. Going cheap on bracelets must be frustrating to the rest of the team that worked on a watch, knowing it will limit sales.
I don't understand what goes through their mind when they make those kinds of decisions... 😊
An absolute stunner. Keen to try this on and will likely get one on the secondary market.
Great review! Why can’t manufacturers make more chronographs with these type of dimensions.
I don’t like yellow gold. Would love to purchase if they can make the markers and hands white gold.
Movements are just to big....
Thanks btw 😊😊
38mm x 13mm with all the complications is impressive. The Zenith is a mix between Breitling, JLC, and a Daytona
I am a big fan of Zenith I own about 12 of them from vintage to recent this release is great but why those colours.
When it comes out with a blue dial and silver hand I will buy it but like you I don’t like the gold hand nor the colour they chose for their initial batches .
Also you are 100% right about the lousy quality of the Zenith bracelet except for some of the new Defy one but again no micro adjustment without tools !!! This is 2024!!! Great review
Thanks. Glad you found it worth your time 😊
I have the vintage 1970 Movado Astronic triple calendar moonphase with the El Primero movement and zenith bracelet. It’s a stunning watch and perhaps a better value than the modern version. It has the same day, date, month layout too.
Hi Johan. Love your content. I'm wondering what do you think compering this Zenith and Breitling to the Longines Master Collection? I think that Longines Master Collection has the best value proposition when it goes to those complications. Plus it looks really elegant and clean with white dial and steal bracelet. Stay safe 😁 👍
Thanks 😀
Man, little out of my price range but love that watch!
Do the Swiss 🇨🇭wear bracelet watches loose? I wear close-fitting bracelets where easy adjustments are important to me. For $14k Zenith could try a little harder on the clasp 😎!
I just tried the panda version yesterday, in dubai. This watch looks much better on a strap, I agree. I liked how versatile it can be, in my opinion it can be dressed up or down. Buying it used or from an authorised dealer with +20% off is the way to go, cheers!
The El Primero movement is possibly the best integrated chronograph movement in the price range. Hence the Zenith Chronomasters are real value all things considered.
exactly 😊
I completely agree with your opinion on the bracelet, and a few of your other points. I finally got to try one of these on while in London a few weeks ago, and for something at this price point, there is no excuse for the quality of the bracelet, and the lack of clasp adjustment. I also don't care for the multi-colored sub dials. At this price point the only Chronomaster I would consider is the pink, where the sub-dials match the main dial, but then you still have the issues with the bracelet. But I also agree that the quality of the movement along with the number of complications you are getting here, equates to a lot of value compared to the rest of the market. But when comparing it to the JLC Master Control Calendar, I think most people would pay more, and not have compromised on so many concessions that are present in the Zenith.
I’d have to try it on the bracelet before I make a comment. But I think the gold hands warm it up and make it look distinctive. I’m going to try this on at local AD but this could very well be my next luxury purchase and I didn’t see that coming from zenith. I’ve always liked them but never hit the spot. This one does. It’s much more distinctive than its obvious counterpart the Daytona now.
I tried the watch while in zurich at W&W24 - It's really quite delicious.. 😊😊😊
The content of this channal is so good i cant help but think that there is a team of people and alot of money behind it.........
Nope. Just me and a very patient family that let's me nerd out on watches 😊😊
I was thinking like you at first. I was all over it. But I just couldn't bring myself to buy it. Zenith is just not a good vibe as a brand. I chose the mojawe desert ceramic 41 chronograph by iwc instead for even a little bit more cash but I couldn't be happier with it. Suits my more active lifestyle better.
Great buy. Two things that make the IWC better imo. First the symmetry of the dial. You can't get around the fact that an annual calendar takes up a lot of real estate. Zenith did a bad thing by trying to force too much info into 38mm. Also, the color choice and strap are more will suited with the IWC. The metal bracelet doesn't fit with the Zenith aside from the fact that it's poor quality.
I own a El Primiero moon phase. It is a very good time piece for relatively small price.
I have a Zenith EP-1 Rolling Stones edition and for a chronograph, it's pretty thin.
Yet again another great video 👏
Thank you 👍👍👍
By looks alone, Breitling for me, but I can't come up with any rationale for a chrono, particularly considering all the negatives it brings - chunkiness, reduced legibility, & higher service costs.
Mike, would you say the inferior bracelet is the counter argument of the old adage: “buy it on the bracelet”, given it’s the same MSRP as the one on the strap?
Tough one. I own a NTTD on the strap simply because I hated the bracelet. Some watches just live better on a strap and the Zenith definitely does 😊
Do the date and month indications set in either direction for international dateline crossings? Having to go through a year on the return would be aggravating. It’s why I like the sky dweller (it goes in either direction).
New white SpeedMaster is a hugely more attractive proposition that the Zenith - which, at 38mm is too small for a chronograph - unless you are a girl, an Asian or have a spaghetti wrist.
yes, agreed with everything, they should do platinum or silver hands.... or steel...
As much as I also like the 38mm size, this watch to me really needs to be in the Chronomaster Sport's 41mm case so the date window at 4.5 doesn't cut into the tracks at the edge. Every time I saw that watch, my eyes go right to that date window. There has to be a better solution for a $14k watch.
Just shows how ahead of the time IWC’s GST perpetual calendar chronograph was from 2001… (no push pins too)
I was ready to pull the trigger on the chronometer original but then I heard Zenith primero 3600 issues online. Despite that, I convinced myself that those are outliers. Went into an AD to try one on and saw some of the exact same issues on the display model too (ie seconds hand not perfectly aligned when chronograph is not running and the start button not always triggering the chronograph). Coincidence or not, that genuinely turned me off and I ended up walking away!
I always wait in anticipation for your Saturday morning video to drop! :)
I think the overlapping sub dial was charming on the standard 38mm models. I feel like if they kept it across more models, it would be iconic for their brand.
I really am disappointed with the bracelets not being improved. How do you feel they compare to Grand Seiko bracelets?
GS bracelets are better, I think. For me the GS bracelets are maybe not the prettiest but quality wise I do think they are a bit better 😊
I saw this release and was immediately taken by how they managed to make a triple calendar chronograph with moonphase this compact! It’s certainly not new for Zenith, they’ve done this before but I really like the panda configuration and the gold does pop off. I do have a question though, I’ve seen some reviewers say the bracelet on the Chronomaster Original doesn’t drape straight down so it might be problematic to get a perfect fit. What is your experience with this? Thanks for another great video, I look forward to your content and insights :) cheers!
It's not my experience that it's a problem. The end links do play a part but because the lug to lug is what it is, I've never felt it was a problem 😊
Looks like every other Chrono out there. I want something distinctive and that looks great on rubber
Best jack of all trades watch with a busy dial thus far in 2024, IMO.
I really like this and had a chance to try on my 7" wrist at a local AD. I think if one is on a tight budget, BUT, have the means and desire to get one very good luxury watch that checks off many boxes, this would be it. The compact size that houses quite a good # of complications and price it's all for is actually pretty reasonable considering some of the closest comparisons.
IF I were in the market for one, there is one niggle that I may have to get used to. The original case and specifically the lugs. They don't angle down as much, are higher than the case back, and this hover with an obvious gap between the lugs and wrist.
Compare that to a Chronomaster Sport which is larger, the case shape and lugs actually curve down and form around the wrist much better. Just saying it's a visual anomaly on the perpetual moon phase chronograph that may keep some from considering it if a watch has to absolutely fit perfectly around the wrist.
That Zenith is a good looking watch. But for me, it looks too small on my wrist. There are Speedmasters available with the triple calendar and moonphase. Not sure if they are current offerings but I've seen used ones for less than 4k USD.
There’s no chance those Speedmasters are current offerings for $4k
Tripple calendar speedmasters for 4k? Link please, because I'm in a buying mood... 😊
Very nice watch but 38 mm is too small for me. A 41 till 43 mm would make it a killer
The size is a spec that some will take issue with. I get it for sure 😊
I have to agree with your opinion on A384 😅😅😅
It's very high on my list... 😊
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatcha384 awesome, just wish they modernized the bracelet and dial dimensionality a bit like in the Sport, the dial looks a bit flat...
I like it a lot. Not willing to eat the depreciation though…I’ll consider picking it up in a few years for 7k
Even for an American the Date/Day/month is messing with my OCD. I think, Longines, Omega, and JLC did the best layout with a triple calendar movement.
When the JLC was $15k it beat all of these by a wide margin. But alas, price increases have made it less desirable
Zenith have always been better than Omega. The latter churns out dozens of versions of basically the same watch, Zenith is top notch at very reasonable prices and has great history, model diversity and class!
SPEEDY doesn't move over for any Chronograph it is a ICON owned by most Rolex,Patek,AP and Omega fanboys and owners no collection is complete without one!!!!!FACTS!!!!!!!!
Nice movement and watch overall. I suspect the overhaul would be pricey in 5 yrs time. Good dimensions. Interesting but not taken with it.
Regards,
Chris
Probably true - These kind of complications are going to add to the long term cost associated with the watch 😊
Mike ❤, is it possible to publish a detailed review about Longines Spirit Titanium 40mm 👌 thx💕🔥
It’s a fabulous watch, but unfortunately it’s very expensive, this is one where people like me can’t say it’s unjustifiably expensive . That tag Glass box is looking better by the day.😂
Glassbox. Good call 😊
Seriously think chronographs are a boy thing. Unfortunately, I shop for boys (brothers, nephews, and godson). My migraine addled brain can’t follow it. I agree with others about leaving off the calendar functions. But I appreciate you describing how to view one, especially the no overlapping. It helped me give voice the ones I hate the most. Though I also include the ones without circles that fade into a dark background.
Did you have it already on your wrist? What are your thoughts after some time? RSVP
I have worn it now. Gorgeous watch still, but I do think the calendar could do with more space. As for the gold hands, you barely notice it. It dropped a little in my love but still a good watch 😀😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Isn't Longines Master Collection Chrono Moonphase in 40 mm better? At least for the money?
I’m thinking of your recent video on JLC. They’re not the best at this and they’re not the best of that. As far as I’m concerned Zenith has the same problem.
But JLC watches are beautiful, not the bling that sells for high end today but beautiful. Zenith watch look quirky.
Totally respect the brand it’s remarkable but I don’t think this is the release of the year. I don’t even think it’s all that special. 😊
Zenith are a very underrated watch brand, they are up there, in Steel sports watches there is only really Rolex and grand sekio ahead of them (only just) unless you are very rich and want to spend tens of thousands on a watch, which is only a couple of percent better in real terms.
curiously - and this is why watches are so much fun - your highlights of this watch are my lowlights. At 38mm its hopelessly compromised, its too small - indications are in weird places, theres a wide tachy scale and second track eating into a dial thats already pretty compressed and as a result the calendar readouts and subregisters are too small and essentially pointless. I get that 38mm is wearable and as an image its pretty enough but whats the point of a watch you can wear but not read. Just because you can make a triple calendar in 38mm doesnt mean you should.
To each their own. I knew when I saw it that it would be divisive. 38mm = not a lot of space. Some people are going to hate that. Others will think that it's an achievement.
We like what we like 😊
If it had a 12 hr counter it would be my grail watch. I feel like a 12hr counter is much more useful than 10th of a second.
I commend Zenith for the technical ability to squeeze so much in a small package.
I still don't give a damn about small watches. Sub 40mm watches (especially with advanced complications) don't allow the design to breathe. Say what you want about a 42 or 45mm with the same complications, legibility will not be your complaint. The race to miniaturization is not actually a good idea in my opinion.
Completely agree, this watch would benefit plenty from a 42mm diameter, and I don't get the obsession with thin cases either. I want to see and feel some heft and presence from a chronograph. Any thinner than 15mm and I'm not interested. I guess we all have our likes and dislikes. Prefer arabic numerals too
Still, enjoy listening to his videos, very eloquent and well considered. Bit of South African in the accent ?
It is a fair point to raise. It's kind of a rock and a hard place: The complication and dial at 42 or 44mm looks better but wears worse on the wrist. 38mm. Wears better but will feel cramped... Design decisions at the end of the day 😊
It’s a turbocharged Porche priced like a Mercedes..kudos
That’s a lot of stuff on a small watch. I would need a magnifying glass with my glasses to see anything.
Well... I already have the glasses 😊😊
how did you go mate? did it make the short list?
No actually. Handled it at watches and wonders and it's a very nice watch but I concluded that it was nice but the window positions just kept throwing me off. Regular Zenith Chronomaster is the way to go I think 😃
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch fair call!….i like where your head is at. I’ve picked up a pre owned zenith 40mm pilot, it’s a great daily!…tempted to liquidate the submariner if I can pickup the Chronomaster Original at a great discount to retail.
The choice for gold hands and indices is the deal breaker for me otherwise I think it’s great.
The JLC dial has a cleaner look,but the Zenith case(at least on a watch strap)looks too big for the strap ,giving it a squarish and chunky look! Finally, there's that price.........
It is so beautiful but for me I need 10bar on my watches ☺️
It's not often that I disagree with what you say, but I will in this case. It's a nice watch, but the pricing is just exorbitant. This very movement / functions combination has existed in Zenith's catalogue for at least 25 years, so it's not like they had to front any extra investment for it. And just because the Daytona is overpriced and JLC has utterly lost the plot on pricing doesn't make this model a value proposition.
Fair enough - Opinions can't and shouldn't align all the time - it's where the differences of opinion are that perspective is added to a topic.
cheers 😊
Please make a special about Brequet.
Great video! BTW, are you South African?
Yebo.
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Curious, have you been to the Yebo Beach Haus restaurant in Atlanta, GA, US? I am not qualified to judge the authenticity of food, but it looks good. 😏
Btw have you not tried this in person yet? The whole video was on impression out of press/ social media which was fine at the time due to limited availability. It’s been 6 months and it’s available almost everywhere. I would think a follow up video or update is required when u make video based only on first impression; that too not in person! Otherwise it’s the same Hodinkee/ influencer story!
I have tried it now. I quite like it. The initial love for it has cooled but I still think it's a pretty good option. 🙂🙂🙂
I think they over-egged the chronograph-pudding. Most chrono-dials are busy enough with "just" the three large hands and three sub-dials and their hands. Squeezing in a date, day and month complication *and* making one of the sub-dials multi-functional with that moon-phase indicator is just too much. Especially on a watch with a smaller case diameter and thus smaller dial. I guess legibility at a glance isn't *really* the point with a product like this, but it *is* still a wrist-watch, after all .. Perhaps that's the reason why they went with the yellow gold hands. In my experience, panda-dial chronos with silver colored hands can be pretty hard to read, even without any added complications on the dial.
good watch indeed, but with this level of complexity, 2 year warranty is a tad scary
This is one sexy watch
So much want
Great content
Thanks 😊
you sure are paying a lot more than for a speedy tho, but you also get what youre paying for, zenith is fantastic no doubt
A beautiful piece but that Zenith case is unwearable. Lugs shoot out completely horizontally, leading to a huge gap between them and the wrist
Problem made even worse on bracelet without articulating end links
It's not my experience, but that is of course merely a focus group consisting of one person 😊
Hi Mike, I've seen a couple of your videos, share a lot of your opinions and regret not having stumbled upon your channel before now.
Where in DK are you based? Send me a pm
Don't have your contact info 😀
Write to me at my email in the video description 😀
Way too busy for a 38mm. The small size makes it unreadable. I have the Paul Picot Telemeter and it suffers the same problem. It's a 40mm, but the dial is small so it wears like a 36mm. Beautiful watch, but useless as a chronometer because the subdials and indices are just too small to be readable.
zenith great watches but there is reason why true enthusiast dont buy zenith because of service cost like jlc
Nope, the winner is not Zenith nor Omega. Its Sugess 418-2 and Pitzman,# 3 both of them a lot of Bang for the Buck!!!!!!
I’d buy one if it was 40mm to 41mm
I would love to love a Zenith enough to buy one, but that's not really a looker IMO,
Date windows are rarely pretty, but that one has got to be the worse I have seen!
It looks like The Princess of Wales photoshopped it.
I wish I had the means to just casually drop $13k on stuff like this
you and me both 😊
If you are going to blow away that amount of money on a watch, you may as well spunk away another few K and get the JLC.
Lol. Perhaps 😂
somehow I do not desire any of these
To each their own - buy what you like - always 😊
The Longines master collection calendar chronograph moonphase is so much better value than this imho
Looks too much like a Breitling ripoff. Far too busy for me cramming all that stuff in a 38mm watch makes it a hot mess.
People with $15k for a single watch are very likely to have $20k for a single watch. And they'd choose the JLC, which is a clear upgrade to the Zenith.
Yea that's the big problem with Zenith, at the end of the day it's still a Zenith.
I don’t feel it’s a clear upgrade at all, and I don’t have any skin in the game.
The JLC is a bit conservative and boring. Dare I say a little Fredrick constant.
The JLC is superb. Beautiful dial and just 12mm thick.
Both Zenith & JLC have different appeal.
I prefer zenith by miles
I thought you were South African
I am. Born and raised. But have lived in scandinavia for most of my adult life and have scandinavian ancestry. Second home. 😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch I knew that Scandinavians spoke English well, never thought they’d pick up a South African accent lol. Health and happiness, brother. Love your reviews.
Never ever buy a watch with a newly developed movement, you are just volunteering to do their product testing for them.
Fair enough - but conversely, then there is no incentive to innovate if no one is willing to take a change on that innovation 😊
$14k... no thanks
Nope, no El Primero can better a Breitling B01, let alone a Speedmaster or a Daytona. 1/10th on a chrono is just pointless and confusing.
Too small
Never really liked any of Zenith watches!
Defys are plain ugly and overly engineered.
Chronomasters are halfway homage halfway who knows what!
Who needs that showoffy 1/10 of a second anyway?! God forbid if it breaks down or needs servicing.
The bracelets suck and they're primitive looking.
Oversized chrono pushers sticking out like radio antenna too close to the crown.
Tricolor subdials look kind of nice but not when they're overlapped.
Let's see, what else...
Tripple calender on a 38m watch?!
Sounds like owner must always carry a magnifier in pocket!
38mm is hardly big enough for a three hander nowadays for adult's wrist size let alone a chronograph!
What an insanity,lol.
To small