ZENITH and Revolution unveil the third chapter in their CHRONOMASTER Revival A3818 collaboration series. The saga continues, exploring different materials that push the boundaries even further. Following a steel model in 2020 and a titanium version in 2022, the “Cover Girl” returns lighter than ever with a modern, high-tech carbon composite case. Three distinct monochrome-black limited editions reimagine this emblematic model with a modern and technical twist.
One of the most sought-after El Primero references ever made, the A3818 was introduced in 1971. Produced for a brief period in limited quantities, this model was a specific iteration of the tonneau-shaped reference A385, worn on an integrated ladder-style bracelet crafted by the legendary bracelet maker Gay Frères. It earned the nickname “Cover Girl” among vintage watch collectors after appearing on the cover of Manfred Rössler’s book ZENITH – Swiss Watchmaking Since 1865.
ONE STEP LIGHTER
In 2020 and 2022, ZENITH teamed up with Revolution to revive this elusive model, first in steel and later in titanium. In celebration of Revolution’s 20th anniversary, the third chapter of this collaboration takes it a step further by reimagining the original design and taut lines of its 37mm case in lightweight carbon composite. Known for its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio, carbon composite offers a high-tech appearance with its characteristic weave pattern. While the steel version weighed 110.6g and the titanium version 78.3g, the complete carbon ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Revival A3818 Cover Girl Carbon (case and bracelet) weighs a mere 55 grams.
Also crafted from carbon composite, the dial once again features the A3818’s distinctive “shark tooth” second track, paired with both tachymeter and pulsometer scales. The pulsometer scale spans the first 15 seconds, while the tachymeter indications are read over the remaining 45 seconds. Additionally, the dynamic black-and-white subdials create a striking contrast. The use of luminescent material enhances legibility in all conditions.
The black PVD titanium case-back with sapphire crystal provides a view of the El Primero 400 calibre. As a direct descendant of the original 1969 El Primero—the first automatic high-frequency integrated chronograph movement—it beats at a rate of 5 Hz (36,000 VpH), enabling tenth-of-a-second precision. Comprising 326 parts, it boasts a 50-hour power reserve.
The ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Revival A3818 Cover Girl Carbon is available in three distinct versions. The first, a limited edition of 150 pieces, features baton hour markers on its black carbon dial. The second, limited to 50 units, showcases Hindu-Arabic numerals. Both editions come with two straps: a black “carbon-effect” Velcro strap and a black embossed “ladder-effect” calfskin strap. These straps can be swapped in seconds without tools, thanks to quick-release spring bars.
The third and most exclusive version is limited to just 10 pieces. It combines a baton-hour-marker dial with the iconic “Gay Frères” ladder bracelet, crafted for the very first time in carbon composite.
The ZENITH CHRONOMASTER Revival A3818 Cover Girl Carbon limited editions are available from Revolution and ZENITH boutiques worldwide and select authorized retailers for Edition 1.
“For our third collaboration with ZENITH, we have the incredible pleasure of presenting the first ever CHRONOMASTER Revival A3818 Cover Gir Carbon’ reimagined in a full carbon fibre construction, a material that embodies strength, lightness, and modernity. It’s our passionate tribute to one of the rarest El Primero watches. In today’s market, we wanted this collaboration to deliver more than just aesthetic appeal. It had to offer true revolutionary quality and value to collectors. The legendary ‘Cover Girl’, elevated with cutting edge carbon fibre, presents just that. We’re also thrilled to celebrate the launch of Revolution Arabia with a limited rendition of 50 pieces featuring a Hindu-Arabic dial, marking the newest addition to our international roster and our commitment to producing and publishing content in Arabic. Huge thanks to Benoît de Clerck, Romain Marietta and entire ZENITH team for their continued partnership since 2020.”
Wei Koh, founder of Revolution Magazine.
“This is the ultimate “Cover Girl” you’ll want to call your own, a perfect fusion of vintage 1970s charm and cutting-edge futuristic design, wrapped in a striking carbon jacket. Our journey began with a tribute to the original steel “Cover Girl,” but over the years, our collaborations with our friends at Revolution have continually redefined the limits of lightness and innovation. These editions embody the shared ethos of ZENITH and Revolution: a passion for watches, a profound respect for their heritage, and a commitment to propelling them into the future. Here’s to 20 incredible years of Revolution and 160 remarkable years of ZENITH—cheers to many more milestones ahead!”
Romain Marietta, Chief Products Officer of ZENITH WATCHES
