Zenith presents the El Primero Chronomaster A385 Revival

At the start of 2021, Zenith unveiled the Chronomaster Revival A385, a reproduction of the world's first high-frequency chronograph released by the watchmaker in 1969.

A remarkable achievement

In 1970, this first automatic chronograph succeeded in an extraordinary challenge known as “Operation Sky”. The timepiece was strapped to the landing gear of an Air France Boeing 707, flight 015, on a flight from Paris to New York in extremely difficult conditions.

In 26 minutes, the temperature dropped from +4° to -62°C and the pressure went down by 75%. And these conditions lasted for over seven hours at an altitude of 10,700 metres. Moreover, the chronograph was exposed unprotected to the shock of landing.

Despite these harsh conditions, the timepiece, which was controlled down to the second at departure and upon arrival, continued to work perfectly.

Zenith Chronomaster Revival A385 version 2021

This new model is nearly identical to the original. It features, among others, the renowned barrel-shaped case measuring 37 mm in diameter and the smoked brown gradient dial. The same central red chronograph hand is also there, paired with the same counters on a white background.

One of the most significant differences is the incorporation of a domed sapphire glass to replace the acrylic glass used on the 1969 version. The case back is see-through, thus exposing the Zenith El Primero 400 calibre. Lastly, this new model beats at a frequency of 36,000 vph (5 Hz) and has a power reserve of 50 hours.

The Chronomaster Revival A385 is available with two kinds of straps: a steel “ladder” bracelet and a light brown calfskin strap.