Zenith Launches Chronomaster Revival A384 Tropical

Chronomaster Revival A384 Tropical

Le Locle, April 29, 2026: Before 1969, manually winding a watch daily was essential for a chronograph to operate. However, a technological revolution occurred that transformed the world of chronographs. Zenith brought a major turning point in watchmaking history by introducing the world's first integrated automatic high-frequency chronograph with the El Primero caliber. Among the early references, the A384 stood out with its distinctive tonneau-shaped case and bold, modern design. Zenith reinterprets one of its most iconic references from a historical perspective, reviving it as the "Chronomaster Revival A384 Tropical." Inspired by the "tropical" dials that are a natural product of aging, acquiring a warm brown tone after decades of exposure to sunlight, this new model captures the allure of rare vintage pieces while boasting Zenith's renowned high-frequency precision.

A tropical dial refers to a watch dial seen in vintage watches, where the original color naturally transforms into a deep brown due to aging. This often results from long-term exposure to ultraviolet light or the gradual oxidation of the dial material. Such discoloration is unintended and occurs irregularly, making it a unique personality for the timepiece, highly valued among many collectors.

This time, instead of simply reissuing a specific historical model, Zenith has meticulously and contemporaneously expressed the depth and warmth of an aged dial, elevating it into a calculated, unified aesthetic.

The dial is finished in a classic "chocolate panda" style with brown-toned subdials on a white lacquered base. The palette is also reflected in the tachymeter scale, finished in consistent tones. Faceted applied markers and hands are coated with "Old Radium" Super-LumiNova, providing a subtle aged texture while ensuring excellent legibility. A vibrant red chronograph seconds hand adds a dynamic, modern accent.


The "Chronomaster Revival A384" faithfully reproduces the proportions and structure of the original model created in 1969. Based on the original blueprints, the compact 37 mm stainless steel case inherits the sharp tonneau shape, pump-style pushers, and the unique combination of brushed and polished finishes characteristic of that era. While carefully reproducing vintage elements, it integrates modern robustness with 5 ATM water resistance.

This model is powered by the El Primero 400 caliber, the most faithful descendant of Zenith's original El Primero 3019 PHC, introduced in 1969. Developed and manufactured entirely in-house by Zenith, this movement operates at 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) and allows for 1/10th of a second measurement. It offers approximately 50 hours of power reserve, and its 278-component construction, including an open rotor adorned with the Zenith star, can be admired through the sapphire crystal case back.


In homage to the historical model, the iconic "ladder" bracelet, specially designed by Gay Frères for Zenith in 1969, is also reproduced. Lightweight and flexibly conforming to the wrist, this instantly recognizable bracelet enhances the true value of the Revival Collection's pursuit of authenticity while offering modern watch comfort.

The "Chronomaster Revival A384 Tropical" will be available at Zenith Boutiques, online boutiques, and authorized retailers worldwide.

Chronomaster Revival A384 Tropical

03.A384.400/69.M384 / El Primero 400 Automatic / Power Reserve approx. 50 hours / Stainless Steel / 1969 Original Case, diameter 37 mm / White Lacquered Dial, Tropical Brown Counters / 5 ATM Water Resistance / Reissued Ladder Bracelet / 1,340,900 JPY (incl. tax) / April 2026 Release