In early 2024, Zenith revived the impressive Triple Calendar for its Chronomaster Original line, giving you all three calendar readings (month, day, and date) in separate corners of the dial while still including a trio of chronograph registers and a moonphase indicator. Today, even non-watch enthusiasts are well aware of the classic date window, or perhaps even the day-date aperture. But this unique dial distribution maximizes the amount of information you receive without crowding your eyesight.
It was a throwback to a particular style of calendar complications that kinda sorta used to be popular about half-a-century ago. However, thanks to the efficiency of its famed movement, Zenith happened to do them best. Today, the Triple Calendar is back with a more premium version featuring an 18k rose gold case.
Historical Roots Run Deep
What most casual fans might not realize is that Zenith’s legendary El Primero movement was actually designed with calendar complications in mind from its inception. Back in 1970, just months after the groundbreaking caliber’s debut, Zenith produced 25 prototype triple calendar chronographs using the iconic A386 case design. While these never reached mass production (although a limited-edition came out in 2013), they represented an ambitious vision that’s finally been realized in full form over five decades later.
The new rose gold execution perfectly balances vintage inspiration with modern luxury sensibilities. Maintaining the historically accurate 38mm case diameter of the original A386 (just like last year’s reintroduction model), this latest rose gold iteration features the same architectural elements that made the original so distinctive, from the raised box sapphire crystal to those perfectly proportioned pump-style pushers and elegantly tapered lugs.
Aesthetic Mastery
Where this iteration truly shines is in its execution of contrasts. Aside from pairing superbly with the 18k rose gold case, the deep black dial provides the perfect backdrop for the rose gold-plated counters, hands, and indices. Surprisingly versatile in its wearability, this two-tone approach creates exceptional legibility while exuding a sophisticated warmth that stainless steel simply can’t match.
Just like previous editions, the apertures for the day and month indications at 11 and 2 o’clock maintain perfect symmetry, while the moonphase display integrated into the 6 o’clock subdial demonstrates Zenith’s thoughtful approach to dial composition. Affixed to the timepiece is a black calfskin strap secured by an 18k rose gold folding clasp to complete the package.
Engineering Excellence
Under the hood, the El Primero 3610 calibre continues to showcase why Zenith remains the undisputed master of high-frequency chronographs. the movement’s party trick is its true 1/10th of second functionality, where the central chronograph hand makes a complete revolution around the dial in just 10 seconds instead of the traditional 60. This isn’t merely a visual flourish – it’s a direct expression of the movement’s exceptional 5-Hz frequency.
What’s particularly impressive is how Zenith has managed to incorporate the complete calendar mechanism without compromising performance, let alone aesthetic. Despite the additional complexity, the movement still delivers a robust 60-hour power reserve. It can be viewed through the exhibition caseback window to reveal its beautiful finish with the signature blue column wheel and Zenith’s iconic star emblem.
Spec Sheet
Model: Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Rose Gold
Case Material: 18k rose gold
Case Size: 38mm
Lug-to-Lug: 46mm
Thickness: 14mm
Movement: Zenith El Primero 3610 automatic chronograph
Frequency: 5Hz
Power Reserve: 60 hours
Water Resistance: 50m
Band: Black calfskin leather strap with 18k rose gold folding clasp
Limited Edition?: No
Pricing & Availability
Not limited in edition size, the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in rose gold is available now for $26,300 — nearly double of the stainless steel version.
Recap
Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in Rose Gold
Looking back to a ’70s-style prototype, Zenith dresses its Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar in 18k rose gold following its steel revival last year.
