Strap Guide: Zenith Chronomaster Original

Strap Guide written by @rolapalooza. Thank you Roald!

Introduction

It was only December 2016 when I really started this hobby and stumbled across a Dutch watch forum and the Zenith El Primero. From the moment I saw that tricolore dial I was hooked. Who needs a Speedmaster when a beauty like the El Primero exists right? Soon my search started to get that grail and then it happened, the size, 42mm... A 17cm wrist like mine is not able to pull that off (imho) so I moved on feeling a bit sad as I truly loved those colorful sub dials. Half a year or so went by and I became a frequent contributer on that Dutch watch forum when on a certain day someone posted a wristshot of an El Primero. I had no idea, the Zenith was also available in 38mm! Feeling ecstatic the hunt was on again. Not much later a 1 year old El Primero was put up for sale at the forum. Without hesitation I sent the guy a message and the next day I drove down to pick it up. Stunning!

That particular El Primero turned out to be quite a strap monster. I enjoyed it a lot over the years and put all kinds of straps on it. Up to half a year ago. A watch buddy asked if I was interested in his spot on the waitinglist for the new El Primero Original. This newer version is closer to the original ZEP and I took the offer. The new OG (full ref: 03.3200.3600/69.C902) has, in my opinion, a nicer case and the dial is just looking a bit fresher. And don't forget that new El Primero movement boasting 1/10th of a second precision and time measurement. What's not to like about it!

Delugs approached me for a strap guide and of course as a 'strap guy' I had to play along. Enjoy!

Dark Grey Alcantara Signature

The Dark Grey Alcantara Signature Strap works just marvelous with the El Primero. It gives the watch that no nonsense sporty yet casual look. The strap is layered with soft alcantara on the front and supple Zermatt leather on the back. Probably my favorite strap for the Zenith.

Blue Crazy Horse Side Stitch

One thing I like most about this Blue Crazy Horse Side-Stitch strap is how it works with the blue El Primero sub dial. It compliments the watch and makes it really present on the wrist. The color matching side stitch is subtle giving it a vintage touch on a modern strap. This is like summer on the wrist.

Brown Waxed Canvas Sli m

Again the ZEP shows it just loves straps. Check out the brown canvas strap. The strap is made of a top layer of rugged waxed canvas and a black rubber back. The strap is relatively slim and surprisingly supple compared to other canvas straps.

Army Green Saffiano Stitchless

The texture of the Saffiano works well with the straight lines of the case giving the El Primero a very sharp look. The army green color definitely brings the watch to life.

Navy Nubuck Slim

I’m a big fan of Nubuck as it gives a very nice soft look and dresses down the watch for more casual activities. This navy slim strap does exactly that. It works very well in combination with the subdials giving the watch a very approachable everyday look.