Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto
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Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto

By Ornatus-Mundi · Apr 13, 2015 · 4 replies
Ornatus-Mundi
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Ornatus-Mundi provides a detailed look at the Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto Edition, a timepiece designed for automotive enthusiasts. His review highlights the watch's unique aesthetic elements and technical features, explaining how Zenith integrated racing themes into this special edition. This article offers a comprehensive overview for collectors interested in Zenith's thematic releases.

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During BaselWorld 2015 Zenith presented a thematic watch geared towards the tastes of true petrol-heads: The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto Edition . A watch that - I confess - evoked mixed feelings with me, conceptually, but is a compelling offering on its own merits (if one looks a bit deeper - pun intended!):




What differentiates this watch from the standard El Primero with open escapement is quite obvious: The coloured striping paying homage to the Tricolore, the French flag:



... perfectly extended beyond the face:



The strap is a nod to the gloves formerly worn by the drivers of classic cars: perforated blue calfskin with a black protective rubber lining immediately create the association with sports cars and speed.




Matching to sports and speed, the watch is secured with the folding buckle:



But there is more detail in this watch - and this is what makes it interesting:



First, of all, the rhodium-plated dial surface is brushed in the 6 – 12 o’clock direction to ensure consistency with its lines. 







The opaline silver-toned tachymetric scale makes a striking contrast with the inner blue ring and its white graduations, while the 300 divisions displaying units of measurement all the way down to the fifth-of-a-second chronograph times are indicated on red and blue transfers. 




The hollowed and snailed 30-minute and 12-hour counters at 3 and 6 o’clock are surrounded by a blue circular satin-brushed rim. Like all chronograph models in the line (apart from ladies’ watches), the central sweep-seconds hand is fitted with a star-shaped counterpoise. The one on this model, along with the counter hands, is red to enhance the legibility of the chronograph times. To ensure smooth overall aesthetic consistency, the small-seconds trident appearing through the “Open” window at 9 o’clock is composed of blue-white-red colours. 




One particular detail that connoisseurs are sure to note: the mushroom-type push-pieces for the chronograph functions each feature a coloured groove: blue for the chronograph start & stop, red for the reset. 

Corresponding to an opened hood allowing the view on a car's race engine, Zenith has chosen the Open model as the base for this watch. Thus, a view on a highly tuned motor is possible from both sides, the back and the face alike. The latter is particularly interesting since the movement is regulated by a silicon escapement:







The back of the steel case reveals he well-known El Primero movement (El Primero 4061, automatic with silicon escapement parts). It bears two inscriptions in particular: the Tour Auto logo (on the sapphire crystal) and the serial number. 






Being critical in view of 'thematic' watches, I was surprised how well the watch matches to various wrists and styles. First, on my rather standard wrist with a darker attire:








Later a bit more flamboyant - the Chronomaster El Primero 1969 Tour Auto makes a perfect appearance with lots of presence!









I like the following shots particularly as the convey the energy that exudes from this timepiece:






Ready for a ride with the 8-cylinder? - SURE!




Oliver tried it as well with his slightly smaller wrist - likewise, the watch fits nicely.











To sum up, Zenith created a watch for petrol-heads, but for those who like it a bit more discreet and still functionally consistent with its theme.

Here, Zenith succeeded and in addition made the watch suitable for more occasions than just a reunion with your racing pals. It still certainly not for everyone but I can see its attraction for people with an active lifestyle. Furhermore, the new 42mm standard for Zenith watches appear to be something like the golden measure for this particular case design.



The El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Auto Edition is issued in a 500-piece special limited edition. 

Thanks for reading,
Magnus

 
This message has been edited by Ornatus-Mundi on 2015-04-13 13:50:55

About the Zenith El Primero Ref. Chronomaster1969

The El Primero Chronomaster 1969 is a notable reference within the El Primero collection, distinguished by its open-back design showcasing the high-frequency movement. This particular model pays homage to the original El Primero aesthetic while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques and an exhibition case back, a feature not present in the historical models. It represents a contemporary interpretation of a significant chronograph design, appealing to collectors interested in both heritage and visible mechanical artistry. The dial layout, with its overlapping sub-dials and distinct color scheme, is a direct callback to the early El Primero chronographs.

This reference typically features a stainless steel case, housing the automatic El Primero caliber. The movement operates at a high frequency, characteristic of the El Primero series, providing precise timekeeping and chronograph functionality. The case diameter is a balanced size, suitable for a range of wrist sizes, and it is fitted with a sapphire crystal on both the front and the exhibition case back, allowing for an unobstructed view of the intricate movement. The power reserve is consistent with modern automatic chronographs, offering practical daily wearability.

The Chronomaster 1969 appeals to collectors who appreciate the technical achievements of the El Primero movement and its historical significance, combined with the visual appeal of an open-worked dial section. It stands as a key offering in the contemporary El Primero lineup, bridging the gap between historical designs and modern horological preferences. Variants often include different strap options and minor dial color variations, but the core design language remains consistent across the reference.

Specifications

Caliber
El Primero 4061
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
42 mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
100 m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
BL
blomman Mr Blue
Apr 13, 2015

A very sporty version of the El Primero! :) I really like the sportiness, personally I would have preferred with out the "hole" in the dial.... But that might just be me.... Best Blomman

OR
Ornatus-Mundi
Apr 14, 2015

would you complain (pic from the net)? Cheers, Magnus

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Apr 14, 2015

So that view don't really add any excitment to me.... LOL! A cosy backseat would do it for me! ;) I understand your point, but by some reason, when it comes to watches - I prefer open or closed. Semi open very seldom do it for me. Best Blomman

JR
jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)
Apr 15, 2015

Its more flamboyant and fun I feel. I love its looks even though I am not a racing car fan. Very nice report thank you! Cheers Robin

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