The Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT "El Primero" watch: A chronograph classic with a legendary heart
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Jul 2, 2007
The Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch is a classical expression of the values which have given Zenith a proud place within the rarefied company of true watch Manufactures. The Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch has the elegance required for formal occasions, yet is also substantial enough for daily wear. Compelling substance is found within its case, in the form of the legendary "El Primero" chronograph movement, whose technical characteristics have given this caliber a unique stature since its development by Zenith in the late 1960's.
Crafted from stainless steel, or 18K gold, the round case of the Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch measures 42mm in diameter, a stately size which is certain to please those who enjoy wrist-filling timepieces. However, the finely polished double-tiered bezel, shimmering silver dial with intricate guilloche patterns, and the wonderful symmetry of the various displays ensure that the Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT is far more than just a large, fashionable watch. Ultimately, the Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT timepiece represents a subtly updated incarnation of classic complicated watches--true to the spirit of its noble predecessors, yet observant of the wishes of modern wearers.
The Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch is a delight for movement connoisseurs. A glance through the caseback reveals the intricate selfwinding El Primero 4001 caliber. Since 1969, this movement has been renowned for its unheard of precision. Because the balance wheel beats at a pace of 36,000 vibrations per hour (rather than the more common 28,800, or even 21,600 beats per hour) its chronograph can offer timing precision to 1/10 of a second. Additionally, this rapid oscillation enhances the precision of the watch, and indeed, each El Primero chronograph movement is distinguished by a chronometer certificate from the Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres (COSC). Along with these innovative technical elements, in its constructive detail, the El Primero movement of the Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch follows the protocols of all prestigious chronograph mechanisms, and its start-stop-return to zero sequence is governed by a column wheel. In the case of this particular Zenith timepiece, the chronograph function is also distinguished by having a flyback capability; this popular complication allows the user to return the chronograph hand to zero in the midst of a timing sequence, with no need to stop it first.
In addition to its sophisticated flyback chronograph function, the Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch offers a complete calendar mechanism which indicates date, day, and month, as well as the moon phase. Unlike certain complete calendar watches whose indications are dominated by pointer displays, the Grande Chronomaster GT is equipped with elegant window-type displays which recall many of the fine triple calendar watches from the 1940's and 1950's. The Zenith Grande Chronomaster GT watch is available in 18K yellow, rose, or white gold, as well as stainless steel, and is completed by a hand-sewn alligator strap.