Zenith x Bamford Chronomaster El Primero Solar Blue Limited Edition for MR. PORTER

The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Solar Blue is an original initiative. Exclusive for MR. PORTER, this ‘tripartite’ limited edition is a collaborative development by Zenith and British watch customizer Bamford Watch Department. It is further evidence that MR. PORTER is strengthening its watch operations and offerings, with more and more brands in its portfolio and a number of exclusive editions. This will come as no surprise following Richemont’s acquisition of Yoox Net-a-Porter.

Based on the Heritage 146 model, this limited edition watch features several historical design cues reminiscent of vintage Zenith stopwatches, in particular, a tachymeter inspired by a 1971 El Primero powered chronograph. The solar blue dial offers a gradient and depth of colour. With its white marking radiating at its periphery, it is a true eye-catcher, feeling altogether modern and new.

The retro-inspired steel case is just 38mm in diameter, a size for which many purists have a soft spot. It is elegant, well-proportioned and understated. It features a thin bezel, a domed sapphire crystal, dynamic cutaway lugs and cool ‘mushroom’ pushers.

Turning the watch over, the exhibition caseback offers a superb view of the iconic El Primero calibre – which means an automatic, high-frequency, integrated column-wheel chronograph (editor’s note, for more information about this legendary chronograph, read our in-depth review here). The movement comes in the 4069 version with hours, minutes, small seconds, a central chronograph second hand and a 30 min totalizer for chronograph minutes and no date. Its precision is certified by the COSC.

A navy blue Alcantara strap with white stitching sets the final touch and matches the funky deep blue dial.

If the ‘Solar Blue’ (and the eponymous limited edition watch) sounds inspiring, don’t waste any time daydreaming. This limited edition is produced in 25 pieces only and it should sell out pretty fast. It is available exclusively at a price of USD 7,500 or EUR 7,100. For more information on Zenith, visit www.zenith-watches.com.