The story of this Zenith Chronomaster XXT Open
Zenith holds a singular place in the great horological heritage thanks to the creation of the very first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement in 1969. At the beginning of the 2000s, the manufacture decided to bring this mechanical feat into full light in an unprecedented way. It was in 2003 that the concept of the open dial was born, designed specifically to reveal the regulating organ without having to turn the watch over. This bold technical choice finally allowed enthusiasts to observe the balance’s 10 beats per second directly on the wrist. Reference 03.1260.4021 fits fully within this pivotal period that redefined the visual signature of the brand. This innovative architecture required a complete rethinking of the internal layout of the components in order to bring the escapement to the front of the mainplate. The feat thus transforms a simple chronometry function into a genuine permanent mechanical animation before the wearer’s eyes.
Case, calibre and strap of this Chronomaster XXT Open
The sculpted 45 mm steel case features fully polished finishes that emphasise the fluidity of its imposing curves. It frames a solid silver dial enhanced by a fine barleycorn guilloché pattern on its central section. The circular aperture judiciously placed at 10 o’clock reveals the escapement in full action, constantly overflown by a small seconds hand shaped like a delicate 3-blade propeller. Time is read precisely thanks to rhodium-plated Roman numeral markers applied by hand, while a 30-minute counter takes its place on the right side of the display. The watch is powered by calibre 4021, a complex self-winding chronograph movement composed of 248 distinct parts and 39 jewels. This exceptional mechanism beats at the impressive frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour and guarantees a 50-hour power reserve, the indication of which stretches gracefully across the bottom of the dial. A strongly domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment protects the whole. The transparent caseback allows the oscillating weight adorned with delicate traditional finishes to be admired. The piece offers water resistance to 30 metres and is fitted with a black alligator leather strap crafted with broad scales, securely fastened by a double folding steel clasp.
Why this Zenith watch
The major appeal of this model lies in its status as a true precursor in the trend for open dials within 21st-century luxury watchmaking. Acquiring a manufacture chronograph simultaneously offering a power reserve display and a direct view over a very high-frequency heart constitutes a prized opportunity for informed collectors. Its generous size perfectly answers the search for pieces with strong wrist presence. This precise configuration is no longer offered in the current manufacture catalogue, which undeniably strengthens its appeal and perceived value on the pre-owned market. It offers a remarkable gateway into the world of the brand’s great complications, while retaining an aesthetic highly distinctive of its original production era.
Delivered contents and condition
This beautiful piece dating from May 2009 is accompanied by its imposing original wooden presentation box and its duly completed original warranty card. The set comprehensively includes service documents attesting to its rigorous follow-up over time, as well as spare parts issued from past mechanical interventions. The watch is in very good overall condition, having already been worn with care and benefiting from a light professional polish to revive the brilliance of the steel. The case and alligator strap present an excellent visual appearance, ready to accompany its next owner with presence and reliability during future travels.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. We offer you a 24-month warranty on this model. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. Leader in second-hand goods in Switzerland and backed by the widest network of boutiques, we offer online reservation for an in-store fitting and collection, or fully secured international shipping.
* Very good condition – watch already worn and polished. Light external signs of wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
