Thanks for the great review. It's a beauty of a watch and like you point out, Zeniths were and still are a great deal considering you get a high-quality, extremely accuracte, in-house chrono movement. You didn't mention it in your review, but I imagine yours is, like most Zeniths, is a very accurate time-keeper.
In Zenith's defense, I would say that the Chronomaster Open is an amazing and attractive watch. Its beauty however really comes to the fore when you see the escapement in action. That is, it's even more beatiful when it's alive and running. But I, too, had to overcome the initial shock. Now, I can't wait to get one. Its appeal is only strengthened by the uniqueness of the open dial.
I, too, expect that the classic designs will make a come-back at Zenith at some point.