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Pre-Baselworld 2010: Zenith El Primero Jumping Seconds Chronograph Watch
Feb 22, 2010
Swiss watch manufacture Zenith will soon present a new addition to its "El Primero" family of chronographs. This model, the El Primero Jumping Seconds, takes the high-precision utility of Zenith's famously rapid balance frequency to an even greater level of operational efficiency--thanks to a central chronograph hand which completes ten precise micro-stops around the dial in each full revolution of one second. To complete this challenging elaboration for the chronograph mechanism, the Zenith design team and watchmakers had to devise a number of technical solutions, as well as make use of silicon for strategic components in the Caliber 4052 B movement to reduce energy consumption and operating stresses.
The Zenith El Primero Jumping Seconds Chronograph watch carries on the retro-inspired theme that was initiated by the Le Locle-based house at Baselworld 2009. Buyers can choose from versions in stainless steel or 18-karat rose gold, both versions with 43mm diameter cases showing a distinguished combination of brushed and polished finishes. Aside from a vintage charm and intricate craftsmanship, the handsome dials tell part of the fascinating technical story embodied in the self-winding chronograph movement. Examining the raised rehaut reveals a distinctive calibration--a mere ten divisions, rather than the typical arrangement of 60 marks. These naturally correspond to the ten exacting stops the thundering (or "foudroyante") central chronograph hand makes during its one second revolution around the dial. Some handsome details which create visual intrigue for the watch include the faceted hour indices, and an overlapping triad of chronograph subdials that are particularly striking in the stainless steel model thanks to a color differentiation with black, grey, and blue. The tasteful inscription "1/10th Of A Second" beneath the Zenith and El Primero dial signatures gives subtle hint to the high-performance technical qualities of the mechanism lying beneath.
A sapphire exhibition back allows a glimpse into the column-wheel governed El Primero 4052 B caliber, whose fascinating features are arguably crowned by a balance wheel moving back and forth at the famously frisky pace of 36,000 vibrations per hour--the signature frequency of all Zenith self-winding chronographs since 1969. This is in marked contrast to the majority of mechanical calibers on the market which employ balance oscillations of 18,000 vph, 21,600 vph, or often, 28,800 vph. While the classical integrated construction of this caliber and its innovative technology is most impressive, aesthetics are not wanting, either: tasteful beveling and circular graining decoration present a pleasing landscape for the eye to appreciate, one topped off with an intricately fashioned central winding rotor displaying the Zenith star logo.
Water resistance of the Zenith El Primero Jumping Seconds Chronograph watch is 100 meters, and both steel and 18K versions come fitted with sapphire crystals. The sporty yet elegant appearance of the model is well matched by rubber-lined straps in alligator leather, and a tang buckle bearing the Zenith insignia. The stainless steel Jumping Seconds Chronograph will also be offered on a stainless steel bracelet that closes securely via a triple-deployant clasp.
More about Zenith:
Zenith brand & timepiece collections
Zenith news
Zenith product blogs
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