ZENITH and watch media outlet Revolution have unveiled the third installment in their collaboration series: the Chronomaster Revival A3818. Two models will be released, featuring carbon composite cases for enhanced lightness and finished in monochrome black.

The A3818, launched in 1971, is one of the most sought-after El Primero references. Its short production run and limited numbers make it an exceptionally rare timepiece. It is distinguished by its ladder-style bracelet, manufactured by the legendary Gay Frères company. It famously graced the cover of the book "ZENITH - Swiss Watch Manufacture Since 1865," earning it the affectionate nickname "Cover Girl" among vintage watch enthusiasts.

ZENITH collaborated with Revolution in 2020 and 2022, releasing revival models crafted from steel in the first series and titanium in the second. For this third collaboration in 2025, lightweight carbon composite has been employed. While maintaining the original 37mm case design and its refined lines, practical aspects have been updated.

Carbon composite offers exceptional strength while remaining lightweight. The case and bracelet are entirely constructed from carbon, achieving a remarkable weight of just 60 grams.

The dial is also crafted from carbon composite, retaining the A3818's distinctive "shark tooth" markers, along with tachymeter and pulsometer scales. The pulsometer scale can be read for the first 15 seconds, and the tachymeter for the remaining 45, blending intricate design with functionality. Furthermore, the black and white sub-dials create a striking contrast, and the application of luminous material ensures high legibility in any environment.

The case back is made of black PVD-finished titanium, with a sapphire crystal revealing the El Primero 400 caliber. Introduced in 1969, the El Primero 400 was the world's first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement, boasting a frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) for 1/10th of a second precision. With approximately 50 hours of power reserve, it combines accuracy with durability.

The new collection features two distinct models. The limited edition of 150 pieces showcases a black carbon dial with baton hour markers, accompanied by a black "carbon effect" Velcro strap and a black embossed "ladder effect" calfskin strap. These straps are equipped with a quick-change system, allowing for effortless swapping without tools.

The other model, limited to just 10 pieces, offers exceptional rarity. It features a revival of the iconic Gay Frères ladder bracelet, now rendered in carbon composite for the first time. This version also boasts a dial with baton hour markers, further enhancing its exclusive appeal.

The Chronomaster Revival A3818 Cover Girl Carbon will be available through Revolution, ZENITH directly operated boutiques, and authorized retailers. This timepiece possesses a character that could mark a turning point in the evolution of next-generation chronograph watches, balancing performance and design.

Chronomaster Revival A3818 Cover Girl Carbon
Edition 1. Revival of reference A3818 (1971). Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement.
Case size | 37 mm
Case material | Black carbon
Movement | El Primero 400. Rotor adorned with Côtes de Genève decoration.
Frequency | 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz)
Power reserve | Approx. 50 hours
Functions | Central hours and minutes; small seconds at 9 o'clock.
Dial | Black carbon
Water resistance | 5 ATM
Case back | See-through sapphire crystal
Hour markers | Rhodium-plated, faceted, coated with Super-LumiNova® SLN
Hands | Rhodium-plated, faceted, coated with Super-LumiNova® SLN C1
Strap & buckle | Black "Carbon Effect" Velcro strap + Black embossed "Ladder Effect" calfskin
Limited edition | 150 pieces
Price | ¥1,760,000 (incl. tax)

Chronomaster Revival A3818 Cover Girl Carbon
Edition 3. Revival of reference A3818 (1971). Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement.
Case size | 37 mm
Case material | Black carbon
Movement | El Primero 400. Rotor adorned with Côtes de Genève decoration.
Frequency | 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz)
Power reserve | Approx. 50 hours
Functions | Central hours and minutes; small seconds at 9 o'clock.
Dial | Black carbon
Water resistance | 5 ATM
Case back | See-through sapphire crystal
Hour markers | Rhodium-plated, faceted, coated with Super-LumiNova® SLN
Hands | Rhodium-plated, faceted, coated with Super-LumiNova® SLN C1
Strap & buckle | Carbon "Ladder" bracelet
Limited edition | 10 pieces
Price | ¥4,015,000 (incl. tax)