The story behind this Zenith Chronomaster Star Open Love
The Chronomaster Star Open Love was launched in 2004, when Zenith, then headed by Thierry Nataf as part of the LVMH group, launched a campaign aimed at female customers, known internally as ‘Operation Star’, with a strict rule: exclusively mechanical movements, whereas most other watchmakers were offering quartz. This model belongs to the range dedicated to women in love, and its entire design follows this theme. The opening in the dial takes the shape of a heart, revealing the escapement beating at 36,000 vibrations per hour; the small seconds hand is a red heart; and the power reserve indicator becomes a ‘reserve of love’ pointed to by Cupid’s arrow. To make room for this heart, the Manufacture has developed a special version of its automatic chronograph, the calibre 4021, in which the power reserve indicator has been moved to the hour axis. As the successor to the Zenith El Primero chronograph launched in 1969, the reference 03.1230.4021 incorporates this high-frequency movement into a case designed for the female wrist.
Case, calibre and strap of this Chronomaster Star Open Love
The round, polished steel case measures 37.5 mm, with a rounded bezel, elongated lugs and a crown bearing the Zenith star, positioned between two rectangular pushers. The pink dial features large sandblasted Arabic numerals outlined in black, a heart-shaped aperture between 9 o’clock and 11 o’clock, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock and the power reserve arc marked ‘Love’ at around 7 o’clock. The sapphire crystal is matched by a sapphire caseback secured by four screws, revealing the automatic movement and its oscillating weight decorated with stars. This column-wheel chronograph features 39 jewels and offers a power reserve of at least 50 hours. Water resistance is guaranteed to 30 metres. The watch is fitted with a polished steel bracelet comprising seven rows of links, fastened with a Zenith-branded folding clasp.
Why this Zenith watch
This model is no longer in the brand’s catalogue, and the second-hand market remains the only way to acquire this highly personalised interpretation of the Zenith El Primero chronograph. It embodies everything one would expect from a Manufacture watch: an integrated chronograph with a column wheel visible from both sides of the case, and a design entirely centred around a single theme. The pink dial and heart-shaped aperture give it an identity that is instantly recognisable, whilst the 37.5 mm diameter ensures it remains discreetly proportioned beneath a shirt cuff. The steel bracelet, more durable than the satin or leather found on other versions, means it can be worn every day without needing to change the strap as the seasons change.
Contents and condition
The watch is supplied in a The Swiss Collector box, without the original Zenith box or papers. It has just been polished, which has restored the case, bezel and bracelet links to a clean, even finish. The chronograph and power reserve indicator have been checked and are functioning normally. The watch is in very good condition and is ready to wear upon receipt.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch, which is covered by a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Very good condition – previously worn. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
