Easy, Breezy, Beautiful…Zenith? Introducing the Zenith x Revolution Magazine “Cover Girl”

Zenith and Revolution Magazine have teamed up to produce a tribute to the legendary El Primero reference A3818 of the 1970s.

March 09, 2020
By: Logan Hannen

Zenith and Revolution Magazine have teamed up to produce a tribute to the legendary El Primero reference A3818 of the 1970s, complete with one of the most interesting modern watch bracelets in recent memory.

The name “Cover Girl” comes from the original reference’s place on the cover of one of the foremost books on the subject of Zenith and their watchmaking, Manfred Rössler’s book Zenith: Swiss Watch Manufacture Since 1865. As a book, it’s a great read with plenty to offer about a brand that is often overlooked, but it’s the image of the A3818 on the cover that really stirs something in the souls of watch geeks. To celebrate that, Revolution have teamed up with the brand for a limited edition in tribute.

Specs
Case Diameter: 37mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 50 Meters
Strap/Bracelet: Steel Ladder Bracelet (w/ Beige Calf and Blue Racing Straps included)
Movement: El Primero Caliber 400 Automatic Chronograph Movement

Starting with the case, we’re looking at a truly sublime 37mm which, for a chunky 70’s-style chronograph, is perfect. It’s mostly brushed, with only some polished chamfers along the edges of the case where sides meet top. In profile, the case is more or less a block, nearly rectangular in shape from the top down, and with lugs that only barely begin to curve around the wrist.

The dial, of course, is a total show-stopper. Its rich, deep blue is executed in a matte finish, with pops of white from the hands, portions of the subdials, shark-tooth indices, and tachymeter scale. The red chronograph seconds hand adds a much needed pop of color that really sets the whole thing off.

But to me, and I’m sure to many another watch geeks, the real prize of this watch is the Gay Frères ladder-style bracelet. You don’t see bracelets like these anymore, in large part because Frères simply isn’t around anymore, but the design is purely unique. It is dubbed the “ladder” bracelet as there are gaps between the center links. It’s not only visually appealing, but it makes the bracelets breathable, which is ideal in hot weather conditions.

The Damage

The Zenith x Revolution Chronomaster Revival Ref. 3818 “Cover Girl” is limited to 100 pieces and is priced at $8,100.

The Take

It’s beautifully executed, incredibly well-priced compared to its vintage and modern counterparts, and limited to only 100 pieces making it a truly collectible limited edition. Its sizing is phenomenal, its heritage is clear, and its construction is, I’m sure, exactly what you’d expect from Zenith. Plus, they brought the ladder bracelet back. Zenith and Revo, you guys knocked this one out of the park. End of story.