Zenith Introduces the Blue Ceramic Chronograph Trilogy

All blue ceramic for the 160th Anniversary.

In celebration of birthday, Zenith presents a trio of chronographs entirely in blue ceramic, the 160th Anniversary Editions of the Chronometer Sport, Defy Skyline Chronograph, and Pilot Big Date Flyback. Each retains the specifications of its steel equivalent, with the only distinction being the case and bracelet material.

Initial thoughts

Best known for the El Primero high-beat automatic chronograph, Zenith arguably does best at chronographs, and that’s exactly what it’s doing for its anniversary. The reimagining of Zenith’s best-known models in blue ceramic is on trend – maybe a bit too trendy – with brands like Audemars Piguet having already done it. That said, the anniversary trilogy does offer a striking new alternative to anyone seeking an El Primero with a whole new aesthetic.

The use of ceramic for both the case and bracelet, however, means each of the trilogy models is notably pricier than the equivalent model in steel. That’s acceptable for an anniversary limited edition, but not quite the same value proposition as the steel variants.

Blue ceramic

The Chronomaster Sport, Defy Skyline Chronograph, and Pilot Big Date Flyback each retain the same dimensions and movement as their respective steel models, except that the case and bracelet are now in blue ceramic modelled on Zenith’s signature hue.

According to Zenith, blue ceramic was an undertaking that involved months of research and development. Blue ceramic is significantly more challenging to finish than white or black ceramic, owing to its integrally coloured composition. As a result, exacting craftsmanship was required to shape and finish each ceramic component, with the surface finishing ranging from brushed to polished to blasted depending on the model.

All three watches are equipped with the latest-generation El Primero movement of the 36XX family. Like its namesake from 1969, the new El Primero runs at a high frequency of 36,000 beats per hour, or 5 Hz.

While the Chronomaster and Defy contain the cal. 3600 with a 1/10th of a second chronograph thanks to a lightning seconds hand, the Pilot has the simpler cal. 3652, which along with its strap, explains its more affordable price tag.

Key facts and price

Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback 160th Anniversary Edition
Ref. 49.4002.3652/51.I009

Diameter: 41 mm
Height: 14.25 mm
Material: Blue ceramic
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. El Primero 3652
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date and flyback chronograph
Frequency: 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Blue cordura effect rubber strap and a white cordura effect strap

Limited edition: 160 pieces
Availability: Now at Zenith retailers and boutiques
Price: US$15,500 before taxes

Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph 160th Anniversary Edition
Ref. 49.9502.3600/51.I001

Diameter: 42 mm
Height: 12.7 mm
Material: Blue ceramic
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. El Primero 3600
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date and 1/10th of a second chronograph
Frequency: 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Matching bracelet in blue ceramic

Limited edition: 160 pieces
Availability: Now at Zenith retailers and boutiques
Price: US$23,800 before taxes

Zenith Chronomaster Sport 160th Anniversary Edition
Ref. 49.3102.3600/51.M3100

Diameter: 41 mm
Height: 13.6 mm
Material: Blue ceramic
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m