Zenith's Daytona Killer Or A Cheaper Rolex Ripoff? - Chronomaster Sport Chronograph Watch Review

[@AdamWalks]

There is a great story about Zenith hiding the machinery required to make the el primero in the loft when they were told to throw it out in the 80's because of the quartz crisis. This ended up saving the company.

[@lchamp7946]

Yeah, I think it was hidden by one of the watchmakers without Zenith’s knowledge. Nowadays that stuff would probably end up on eBay. 🤣🤣🤣

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

Charles Vermot was the one who saved the Zenith El primero

[@leevtgilchrist9503]

I’ll probably never buy a Daytona, but I’ll most definitely buy an El Primero. They have so much more charm in my opinion. Not to mention that it’s a great conversation starter, as when you see zenith you think FELLOW WATCH ENTHUSIAST 😂😂

[@theurbangentry]

Very well said my friend, so true. Thank you and chinch 😎🥂 Best as always, T.

[@mikechau4563]

@@theurbangentry i😊o iioj 😊booo😊oo

[@flemmingsorensen5470]

Totally agree👍👍👍

[@theoverlord1925]

Yes , great conversation starter, as in “ nice Rolex mate”….Sorry but the Rolex Daytona is in another league in terms of prestige , brand recognition and value retention. I love Zenith but these are a bit too “ wanna be “ in terms of design and the value retention just isn’t there . I agree , the polished centre links are misplaced on a sports chronograph watch as they will get all scratched up quickly and ruin the look of the watch, an all brushed bracelet would have been much better ; Zenith, you don’t need to be a genius for that one. But , the beauty of capitalism is that everybody is free to spend their hard earned as they best see fit and there certainly are worse pieces out there in this price range.Zenith did a good job with the proportions and the weight and bravo for mentioning the weight in the specs , such an important detail that many reviewers omit.

[@tudors_down]

@@theoverlord1925 I'm not sure how you call Zenith "wanna be" after TGV just explained they did it first. I'd say Rolex' value retention is based on suckers willing to pay over margin on a boring watch that the internet told them was exclusive. No doubt Rolex is capitalizing on it by shorting supply in the steel sports watch category and more power to them - I don't hate the game. It's not prestige as much as hype, though. Paying $25k for a Daytona that's realistically a value of $12k means that either 1) money doesn't matter to that person, or 2) they need other people to see them with a Daytona. Watch enthusiasts know, materially, Zenith and Rolex are on the same playing field. Zenith actually slightly better until recently when Rolex started display casebacks - you can't cut corners in finishing without everyone knowing it.

[@klausm5460]

For not being much of a car guy your coverage of racing-themed watches is always spot on. The intros and b-roll footage capture the racing atmosphere beautifully. Furthermore, wearing a proper racing watch is a subtle way of celebrating the golden ages of motor racing without the struggle, cost and environmental implications of owning a Porsche or Ferrari.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Klaus, you are very kind. Incidentally, may father took me to see Schumacher race several times, it left quite an impression on me, especially how every split second counted. Of the 3 times I saw him race, he won every single time. The glory days of Ferrari and Schumi. Best regards, TGV

[@klausm5460]

@@theurbangentry LOL! Great rate. I saw F1 live with my dad about 10 times during the Schumacher years, but the only time I saw him win was the one time my mum came along to Hockenheim.

[@rogeregea6875]

If you allow me, Klaus, just one thing to mention... owning a Porsche or a Ferrari usually has a lot less environmental impact than a Toyota or a Ford. Usually you can keep a Porsche for 10, 20, 30, 40 year... who is going to keep a MK1 Focus or Prius for that long? And take a look at the mileage. Usually a generic branded car is a machine purchased for putting on it lots of miles. When it definitely broke, you buy a new one. Not exactly the experience you give to a Ferrari. I say this because the way I see it, the only cars that are not contributing to an environmental impact are precisely the "enthusiast cars". Can't say the same about a Prius when you can take the bus or the train. Just my 2 cents

[@PixelVogue]

I used to go to Silverstone practise days when they had the "proper" engines... now I drive my own V10 and V12 to celebrate those good ol days 🏎🔥 Got to keep Greta happy 😅

[@klausm5460]

@@rogeregea6875 Yes I am aware of that aspect. I've been a car enthusiast for my whole life and have respect for the dedication to conserving a classic car over a long time period. Nevertheless, those companies are still using their racing heritage to sell ever more powerful and complicated cars that merely serve a purpose besides track days or impressing your peers on the boulevards.

[@janelavie4115]

I’ve never personally been interested in Daytona. My choice of Rolex are OP41/39, Exp II or latest AirKing. But I’d take this Zenith anyday.

[@77cjam]

I love Zenith. I tried a Defy classic on at Harrods a couple of years ago. Very nice watch. Won't be a popular opinion but almost every watch these days can be accused of taking direct aspects of previous watches. You either like them or you don't, as long as they aren't actually fake they are ok with me. Great history, research and production as always. Big thank you for keeping us entertained and educated for so many years sir. Enjoy the week ahead and as always stay healthy

[@theurbangentry]

So true my friend, so true. Me and Marc, as I am sure you saw had the same sentiments in a recent watch talk episode. "You either like them or you don't, as long as they are not fake", 🙌🙌🙌🙌 . Thank you as always for the kind words, support and profound words. Onwards and ever upwards my friend. TGV

[@A_A_Ron]

Much agreed. I own a defy classic skeleton and a skyline. Such fine fine watches, and run very well.

[@zumalot]

I sold my Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback, and two other watches during a health issue and the bills that followed. Luckily I still own a Movado Datron HS360 with the El Primero movement which works perfectly. I realize it doesn't say Zenith on the watch, but the El Primero inside is where why allegiance stays. I even like the look of the modern Zenith more. After clicking the comment, I'm headed to search how Movado ended up in the same house with Zenith back in the 70's. Oh, the one negative on this Movado is the date window at the top. Great video, TGV!

[@perpetuality]

Fantastic video TGV! I personally own this exact watch and was an early adopter when it released two years ago. I agree with all your points and foibles of the watch.. I am happy to say that there is an aftermarket option to add an easy link to the bracelet and it truly improves on comfort and utility of said bracelet. I love the watch and I love it more that when it was released several large youtubers immediately dragged the watch through the mud- a sign of a successful release...if anything. Thank you for featuring this watch.... from an anti-hype sentiment and POV

[@theurbangentry]

🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌 Great advice regarding the bracelet and thank you for the kind words! O&U! Best regards, TGV

[@raphaeldegabriele7873]

I own the white dial (if I could, I'd own them both). Great watch. I particularly love the "clean" pushers (I can't stand screw down pushers on a chronograph). I own half a dozen divers so why on earth would I want to snorkel with a chronograph anyway. Wears great with jeans and a polo shirt as it does with a suit and tie.....

[@nciraldo]

Excellent history, classy presentation. Unlike most KZbinrs who lazily rely on their opinions to dominate the video, you provide a well-prepared and comprehensive guide to this model. It’s one bad-ass watch. Well done!

[@indianasunsets5738]

I've never been in close proximity of either the Zenith or the Rolex, but I'd go with the El Primero and its history/upgrades. Great vid, TGV!

[@alfieakaronaldog]

You and thousands other commenters bro. So funny how people buying neither, or even seen either, make that choice 😂

[@indianasunsets5738]

@@alfieakaronaldog okay. You have a nice day.

[@alfieakaronaldog]

@@indianasunsets5738 Sorry dude. I’m just trying to get some reality back into the world.

[@khronokraze]

I would go with one of the Zenith El Primero Revivals such as the A3817 or A384, probably my faves. Love the retro angles and pretty cool 37mn chronograph.

[@alexm2113]

So happy you decided to review the Chronomaster! I've been in love with it since it came out and it's awesome to hear your take on it.

[@theurbangentry]

I don't blame you, it's flipping awesome. You have great taste my friend. Best regards as always. TGV

[@Zotrax1946]

So detailed, all around from top to bottom! I am having a hard time thinking of another watches channel I would listen and watch for 26 minutes..

[@watchmewatch9]

Unlike the Daytona (overhyped/overpriced) , the El-Primero has been on my radar for 3 years. It will most certainly remain on the radar until I literally own one. Great review TGV. You hit that balance of praise with reservation.

[@thetruebatman4632]

I wanted one of these Zenith chronographs for so long (still do kinda) until I got one in hand and saw how slight it is. It looks tiny on a big wrist, which is more impressive actually that they were able to pack so much beauty into such a tight package. I’d rather have that than the Daytona, the history is so cool.

[@NeoWahNah]

Wait.... you think the Zenith CMSport looks tiny on wrist but would rather have a Daytona? 🤔

[@thetruebatman4632]

@@NeoWahNah read my comment again, but slowly this time lol.

[@NeoWahNah]

@@thetruebatman4632 LOL..... yeah. (Note to self, Need to read more carefully). Thanks for the graceful correction!

[@klaushergersheimer8315]

@@NeoWahNah I read it wrong too lol

[@macmorgan6685]

Back around 1997 I read an article “Why I didn’t buy a Rolex Daytona”. I believe it was written by a chap who was attending the Basel Watch Fair. The story goes that he walked into a local watch seller who had a Daytona on display but wouldn’t sell it at the MSRP. I had the same experience here in the US and ended up purchasing a Zenith deLuca which I still have. Unlike the Zenith in your story the deLuca has knurled screw down pushers, screw down crown, white sub dials and black dial. Back in the day Rolex used the el Primero movement and detuned it to suit their requirements. The bracelet was similar to the rolex oyster bracelet but used split pins rather then the screws for sizing. It came from a seller in the UK because at the time The “Zenith” name was still protected by US copyrights. Personally I think the older Zenith deLuca more classically styled then the newer version with better spaced sub dials and nicer case. Happy to share a photo and even the watch. I’ll meet you at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Sq.

[@keithh2028]

TGV, why scale down your watch collection? You're an enthusiast...enjoy a large collection if that's what pleases you!!! Love the Zenith by the way...amazing timepiece!!! Cheers!!!

[@ryanm9554]

I love this watch so much I bought one! Definitely the black dial for the contrast of the grey subdial, it keeps the reverse panda look. I'm totally in love with it, spectacular design, exceptional quality, excellent accuracy at +2 spd, and wears perfectly on my 7.25" wrist. I do agree with your notes on the bracelet and clasp, the bracelet does look good with the design, and is good quality, but a bit too on the nose. The clasp is really nothing special and I would absolutely want to see a more unique design with quick adjust feature. The real star is the dial and movement finishing. The glossy black dial, the finishing on the indices and hands, and the color choices all work so well together and feel like a more expensive watch. The movement is also spectacular and stunning to look at, I love how they opened so much of the inner workings so it's visible. I feel the dial and movement quality punch way above it's retail price, but the clasp and bracelet were almost a cost cutting to offset how much attention was put into the dial and movement. I have no regrets on this purchase and would buy it again without hesitation.

[@michaelriera6277]

Great review! I love the way you intertwine the history of the brand with the modern product reviewed.

[@Chenxi_love_music_fairy]

In terms of selecting a chrono, many watch collectors only look at Daytona. That is not necessary. I would like to recommend my selections: Omega speedmaster pro, Hamilton Jazzmaster performer chrono panda, Swatch big bold chrono blue. These three chrono are all amazing and comes with highly values for watch collectors.

[@glucas369]

My El Primero Chronograph has been on my wrist for 21 years now and I still love it to this day.

[@rangersmith4652]

My Daytona killer is the Citizen titanium chronograph reference # BL5250-53L. Eco-Drive, perpetual calendar, alarm, 200M water resistance, tachymeter, dual time, rotating elapsed time bezel on a titanium bracelet. It's the first Eco-Drive I bought, way back in 2008. Originally the E812 movement, now updated to the E820. Probably still my favorite watch in my collection. I have a second one without the rotating bezel, reference # BL5551-14H, that's always been E820-driven, on an oxblood leather strap.

[@khaaaaaaaaaannn]

I haven't tried on a Daytona, but every other Rolex I've tried has disappointed me. The Zenith on the other hand was absolutely stunning in person.

[@jazzman5598]

Fine show TGV. As I close in on 7 decades I find myself looking for a “birthday/made it to old “sort of grail watch. Sinn? Zenith? Fortis has a nice watch….Strat O Liner. So I watch your vids religiously as they are honest, informative, & I trust your reviews. Thank you Sir!😊

[@eahmhelmoa]

I own the white dial, absolutely stunning. My wife prefer it to much more expensive watches in my collection from rolex, AP and patek...etc. Also it is by far the most complemented watch I currently own

[@cubacereos6851]

I always wanted to own Rolex Daytona ,but for all practical reasons I own Zenith Chronomaster Sport .I have it for two years and I'm completely cured from Rolex .

[@IAT1964]

I guess now you see thru the marketing hype.

[@michaelg8258]

Agreed, regarding the blingy bracelet. And I also would prefer a no-date. Other than that it's Zenith, hands-down. White dial for me though. It's a stunning watch.

[@SethHX]

Quite off topic, but I've noticed that you have Pusher poster on wall. Not only you have a great taste of watches, which gives me pleasure to watch your KZbin videos, but you also have a great movie taste.

[@heiner71]

The latest Daytona has a very robust movement with the 4131. Everything is jeweled (47) and it should last several lifetimes. I would prefer that over the gimicky 10th of a second 36600 bph movement, which I expect to be not as robust and in need of servicing more frequently. Having said that, this statement implies the price for both being equal or close to. I don't think the grey market mark-up for the Daytona is justified. So, Daytona at MSRP vs. Zenith at MSRP, I'd choose the Daytona (not to make money, just for the intrinsic value).

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

Alot seem to think that the first Daytonas used a Zenith El primero. Which is wrong they used Valjoux manual wind movement's. Now the first automatic Daytona used the Zenith El primero that happened in 1988 and Rolex used it for about 10 years. The Daytona was around before the Zenith El primero movement was even made

[@bigee01]

When I first saw the Rainbow Flyback, it was “the” watch that started me on my collecting journey. And the more I researched, the more I fell in love with Zenith as a whole. I believe there is a documentary on YT about how Zenith came back to prominence. THANK YOU for putting Zenith out there.

[@sholemepstein]

I bought the exact watch you are reviewing a year after its release and absolutely love it. I get a kick out of the 10th of a second and would not change it, though I agree with you on the date window. Buying a Daytona over the Zenith demonstrates a serious lack of analytical skills.

[@bubbabrannan5915]

Nice collaboration TGV. Thank you. 🥃🥃🥃

[@atreidis3946]

Great Video, thanks. Of course I’ll probably never buy a El Primero , but I’ll most definitely buy an Daytona.

[@BrendanCS]

There's something about a ceramic bezel that I love. Unrelated, its awesome that you're loving the Panerai so much, that you found an awesome connection to an otherwise quite large watch.

[@chickenporkadob0]

if money is not a problem or they're both the same price, i will always pick Daytona because it looks better and versatile.

[@jamesg4670]

Id do Panda daytona but black dial zenith for daily wear

[@tylerbishop4811]

I have the smaller 38MM Chronomaster Original. I dare say that the visual delight of seeing the second hand fly around the dial every 10 seconds is even more mesmerizing than watching the smooth sweep of a Spring Drive movement 😅

[@stevenfoleyuk9404]

Ive tried on the two tone Zenith and it was a light watch . I prefer the Two Tone Rolex over the Zenith .

[@whodeycinbengals]

Def not a ripoff. It doesn’t even look like a Daytona, except for maybe the size of the bezel and the bracelet. If anything, Rolex has copied Zenith more so than the other way around (for reasons you mentioned in the video). With that said, the Speedmaster and the Daytona are my all time two favorite chronographs, so while I very much like this CS and Zenth (especially their in house high beat movements) as a brand, I’d still get the Omega or the Rolex instead. I’m more of a “boring watch” collector, but if you want to be more unique than a Speedy or Daytona, then this Zenith is a fantastic alternative to those watches.

[@lanceuppercut7436]

What a handsome watch, TGV! I’d definitely grab one over a Daytona, but have to agree with you about the preference towards the 10th of a second complication as opposed to the one second comp. Btw, your video and sound quality, especially through headphones is as always, superb. Excellent video. O & U my friend.

[@johnnyarsenault9124]

Superb video! 👌❤️👍 The new Zenith is fairly perfect, as we look way back (when the El Primero started): Zenith also supplied their movement to Ebel (a now women luxury watch & mostly quartz house, another victim of the quartz crisis 🥲) Zenith disposition of sub-dials, etc. 19:44 defined the look of the Daytona (and not the other way around). As you look at Ebel’s vintage chronograph you will automatically see the El Primero, simultaneously Ebel also offered a high-end ETA 7750 COSC version also. Everything in life everything is short-lived, the old Daytona’s of yesteryears didn’t sell so well BUT now the rage is Rolex 🤷🏻‍♂️ try figuring that out? Sure Rolex was quality back then but so was others ! Mental algorithms are pulling us towards Rolex, a bit like moths attracted to the light of a flamme 🔥.

[@kleinbottled79]

Agree with your take. Kinda hard for me to imagine buying a (new) Daytona when this exists. Trolling Rolex with a superior product indeed. Personally love the tenth of a second feature. If you are going to wear a stopwatch on your wrist it might as well be good at stopwatch things. Also, as someone who ran track, most times I've used a stopwatch in my life tenths mattered, so it feels proper and correct.

[@TheShane209]

If anyone has the right to make a “Daytona Ripoff” it’s zenith. I personally don’t care what people think. I can’t wait to watch this. Thanks again for a amazing video

[@alvinmick218]

Greetings from Omaha, Nebraska! It’s a stunning watch! The biggest negative for me is the running seconds being switched but all in all, it’s fantastic. Thanks so much for reviewing it. 🥃

[@dgdave2673]

Hi, great review, but the title is very upsetting! Calling Zenith El Primero as ‘cheap’ or ‘ripoff’ is a big insult to the brand. I know you don’t mean it that way ! I would take the El Primero any day over a Daytona. Loved your conclusion!😊

[@theurbangentry]

Indeed, but spoilers, I would pick it too! Enjoy th video, sorry if I ruined the conclusion. Best regards, TGV

[@dgdave2673]

@@theurbangentry- no loved it !

[@aarontrionfi3893]

I own the white dial and it's just a stunning watch to look at. I totally agree that the clasp is BY FAR the weakest part of the watch. The worst part wasn't even mentioned, the only way to unclasp it is to squeeze on the sides and pull. Still, I am SO happy with my purchase.

[@theurbangentry]

YESSSSSS, I had to do that too!!! I wish it had the lip I mentioned like the Rolex clasp. Thank you Aaron, great comment. Best regards, TGV

[@oldsnwbrdr]

Agree 100%. The new Defy Skeleton would be a great add to my collection but I won’t get rid my my CS.

[@Andrew-Locksley691]

Great Video well done!I have fallen in love with the Zenith Defy El Primero 21 and have been stalking it as of late.Something off topic I just recently discovered you're chanle and a breath of fresh air in a world that has become so sterile fashion wise in my humble opinion. I have to admit I have come through some rocky times lately and you're chanle has made me remember where I came from and to not settle but always strive to better myself every day.Thank you and keep up the great videos.

[@timelesssneakersandwatches]

Zenith is definitely a brand on my radar. Great video my friend 👊😊. Looking to add one to the collection soon.

[@BRV2728]

This review came in perfect timing. I’ve been debating between this Zenith & Omega Speedmaster Professional. Tough decision ahead 😅

[@seanwarren5613]

VERY sleek video TGV. Personally I would take the Zenith over the Rolex.👍

[@JDSFLA]

I would certainly get this Zenith over the Daytona. I have a Movado Astronic from the mid 1970's that uses much the same movement as the Zenith (El Primero), but also has the moon phase. Very few were made.

[@refugiogolf1]

After 12 o clock and then the whistle!! Had me cracking up 🤣

[@zhicaofang2354]

I know you are scaling down your collection, but if there is any watch that you keep while scaling down, this one is probably one of them :) From a watch fan's perspective I love the design, color profile, and history behind this watch. I also actually use the chronograph/time counting function of the watch, and the 1/10 second function is relatively surplus, but it is an interesting feature that can hardly be found on other automatic chronographs. Compared to Rolex Daytona, one can always have their own opinions on aesthetics and functionality, but the fact nowadays is it is extremely unlikely to get a Daytona at retail while the Zenith is generally available, and even at retail prices it is still cheaper than a stainless steel Daytona. I also love the fact that the watch as the "grandfather" of Rolex chronographs gives me a fighting chance to strike back at any Rolex snobs flashing their Daytona and ridiculing other watches :) From a buyer's perspective however, I am struggling a bit to commit. The Chronomaster line sits on this rather uncomfortable edge between four and five figures USD. At roughly the same price level there is strong competition from Omega, Breitling and IWC, each having their unique heritage and brilliant quality in chronograph watches, and going up aside from Daytona there are amazing complication watches from brands linke Blancpain and JLC. I've been on the market for an automatic chronograph for a while and whenver I come across Zenith, I feel some other competitive pieces pulling me away.

[@bikerob1231]

I would go with the 100% Zenith for sure. It is my grail watch.

[@dperreno]

I will agree that the clasp is a let-down for this much money. However, the rest of the watch is just fantastic. Even your other negatives are pretty trivial. I have the Chronomaster with the 400 movement (so no hacking and no sweeping 1/10 second), but I love the look, the feel, and the overall superbe quality of this watch, and so far my watch is averaging -0.5 sec/day over 11 months. It's an amazingly accurate and beautiful watch. Although I considered the Sport, I just couldn't justify the extra $4k for the trick seconds movement. And honestly, given how accurate this watch is, I just end up advancing the time 1 minute every other month and I don't worry about the lack of hacking.

[@TOCoclock]

Thanks a lot for the quote Tristano, Italy loves you 😊

[@diydad7704]

Soon after getting into the hobby i discovered an El Primero in a jeweler's window and instantly fell in love. I later learned that Rolex had used that movement for their Daytonas because it was better than what they had themselves at the time and that made the Zenith even more interesting. I'd take a El Primero Chronograph over this model any time, though.

[@DelTreeC]

I've always like watches and had my own, but since my fathers passing and being left a few of his and a tool box full of tools that he was midway though I have a newfound appreciation. The stuff you look a most days is so far out of reach for me but the enthusiasm is just the same. Don't stop!

[@TheOwlGuy777]

Well, I just snagged one from Hodinkee Atlanta store at a spectacular price. Around half of retail. Yes, the hype is over and the Daytona snobs are trading them in. There's a glut on the market, so people like me who couldn't drop ten grand on a watch can now easily obtain a superior top tier chrono at an absolute bargain. I absolutely am over the moon with this piece. I LOVE the hollow link bracelet that keeps the weight under control. It weighs in less than my Omega diver 300. However WHY did they have to use double screw heads for link screws? It makes adjusting the bracelet frustrating at best.

[@adampawlicki6993]

"Give me a ping Versilli, one ping only please" awsome reference TGV!!!

[@UnburdenedByWhatHasBeen]

I own a 41mm defy classic. Its one of my favorite watches in my collection. Great watchmaker.

[@pyramidmike]

You are a more disciplined man than I! I definitely would have kept it. What a watch!

[@timemycollection]

Hi TGV, Once I noticed the daytona has a slimmer (right) lug to balance the pushers. I couldn’t enjoy the watch as it bothered me even though I don’t own one. i can’t un see it 🤦🏾‍♂️ Out of the two I prefer the Rolex Daytona with the steel bezels. But of course, both are fantastic watches. Great video 🙌🏾

[@tylercolvin3782]

Stylish and well protected from water hits the mark. Regarding the lume, use my Citizen Promaster dive as a benchmark. I realize a watch that covers casual to a suit would never be that bright but I do agree a bold lume point at 12, by making the Zenith star glow possibly would be fab. Lastly from my perspective, to see a watch being viewed as stylish and still performing as the mechanical device is a great win. I've always viewed Rolexes as a status device due to the fact they are promoted and reviewed regarding their beauty, rarity , etc and rarely discussed regarding performance, precision etc. Almost scared to check the Zenith site or local shop to view the going price .

[@Ryansrangereport]

These like all Zenith watches are taking a huge hit in the secondary market. Just saw one for $6k I've always wondered what it was that bothered me about this watch and it just hit me. The lugs are just slightly modified Tag Heuer Carrera lugs. Hell the new Ceramic bezel Carrera is $6600 MSRP and looks a LOT like this watch . Sadly you also get Tags Customer Service , which I don't find to be very good. I tired to like this watch, I wanted to buy it over a Daytona, but in the end the Daytona won my heart and is on the way to my house now.

[@paulhiggins8774]

What Zenith got right it’s not a boring watch Great history lesson 👍

[@spookmineer]

Your intros have always been very good but this one pulled me straight in, very gripping right from the start.

[@AdamJay510]

Beautiful watch! I’ve been looking at it for 2 years and it’s got so much more to it than the Daytona. Great hints that make it Zenith.

[@petercritchell4292]

Hey I love this watch and you almost convinced me to get the black dial based on your comment that the white dial looks unbalanced in certain might because the white sub- ‘dial disappears in certain lighting conditions. But hey, with the black dial, the blue sub-dial is liable also to disappear into the black dial, and this create the same imbalance. Eh?

[@danielworle6567]

I joiced the white dial, it was the right way😊

[@dunderhay9169]

Great review 👍. I heard the CEO of Zenith say in an interview something like, when did you ever hear of a sporting event timed to the 1/8 of a second? I'd take the Zenith over a Rolex any day.

[@scottsj4625]

I wish I had that kind of money to toss around. 10K is a lot to spend on a watch chronograph. It is a really nice watch and I have never seen one that uses the main counter for 1/10 of a second. I think the older models of the Zenith go for a whole lot less. I love that it is a high-beat accurate watch. I am not a fan of polished center links. I know Rolex does that as well. Another thing to point out which stopped me from buying an Omega Speedmaster reduced was the service cost. It cost more than the watch costs. Mechanical chronos are very costly to service. All of them are. Lots of parts. They tend to be rather thick as well, but I was surprised on the Zenith you just reviewed is less thick than most automatic chronograph watches.

[@EpicSnuggleBunny]

The White dialed version is on my short list 👍🏻

[@mark26785]

The best intro ever!

[@jeremycorrao]

Great video! I definitely prefer the Zenith! The Daytona is overhyped IMO. Cheers my friend.

[@HunterG83]

Besides being a beautiful and functional timepiece with its own heritage, you can actually buy one if so inclined. Good luck getting a new Daytona.

[@modernworldiscrap]

Fantastic video, like always. I think it is wiser to have a zenith rather than a daytona in 2023. But the 16520 will remain the absolute holy grail...

[@David-nx2vm]

I own three automatic Swiss chronos already. So I’m not in the market for another. But if I were, and it was a choice between the Zenith and the Rolex, it would definitely be the Zenith. Better watch all the way around. Plus, if I fancied the Zenith I think I could actually buy one at MSRP. Of course, not so with the Daytona and I will not pay 2X or more above MSRP in the secondary market.. not a Rolex brasher; my wife and I both own Rolex and like them very much. But you have to call a spade a spade - the El Primero is just better from an enthusiast POV.

[@niksoncutts]

LOVE how you started with the legend, Mario Andretti!!!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you, it just had to be done. What a legend. Best regards, TGV

[@jc944t]

Maybe I'm one of the few that thinks the Rolex Daytona is so overrated. Great watch no doubt but the overhyped prices on this model is just plain ridiculous. Zenith is a great alternative and in this video, you brilliantly capture the linkage between these two great brands. For me, a Zenith De Luca (early 90's model), panda dial would tick all the boxes and for half the price.

[@danedaniels3686]

I bought a Black Face Rolex in 1995 ($6,500). I waited over a year get it from an AD. I always wanted a white face Daytona but the prices have gone nuts. I just bought a white face version of this Zenith.

[@cfctech6774]

Great looking watch! I would buy this over the Daytona. However, since purchasing a Hanhart 417 es flyback, it's difficult for me to envision owning any other chronograph!

[@BillyJeans1993]

The Zenith seems like something Grand Seiko would make at least that’s the vibe I get from the Case. Having a Date Window makes the Zenith a solid Daily, but the Rolex Blck Dial With White Gold Bezel is the Cats boloks.

[@Number_006]

Always look forward to your vids TGV - thank you! I really appreciate the Zenith but also agree that the bracelet is a bit of a let down. Great review!

[@jackosullivan2004]

I never understood needing a different 12 hour marker for lume to tell the orientation of the watch at night. Surely you can just feel where the crown is and know that that side is the right hand side of the case, therefore knowing the orientation. That's what I usually do.

[@zibel5007]

It's way above my price range, but I still enjoyed the review. A beautiful watch indeed.

[@1114gabby]

Another good review. I have no need for measuring 10th of a second...so that's useless for me. Certainly a beautiful watch and a more reasonable choice than a Daytona...which you still can't get.

[@paulbugoni2846]

The Mario opening is epic. Grande!

[@barrettwbenton]

Goodness me...between you and Andrew Morgan, I worry the Rolex Enthusiast Squad will get more than a little riled-up with posts like these! For me, between the two, Zenith was always the chronograph I naturally was drawn to...and this was before I had anything resembling a decent handle on the tech behind either chronograph. (The first, and only, high-end chronograph I ever owned was an Omega Speedmaster Pro; the chronograph I listed after more was the first Zenith El Primero Rainbow Flyback. My current automatic chronograph is a Seiko 6139 "blue eye", so I guess you could say I'm still in the thick of things.)

[@danielhoffmann2631]

Thank you very much (again) for your interesting and entertaining presentation! I would go also for the black dial version. Apart from the clasp I don't like too much (RLX has the crown - undoubtly) I would prefer a cleaner bezel. For me it looks too busy - and as you mentioned: who's really going to search for a tenth of a second... I prefer a clean look. The date window doesn't bother me too much. Regarding the date window Breguet did a epic fail with the new XX/20 release - in comparision Zenith did a good job.

[@caseyzaft6734]

The Sub 114060 still is the best iteration of Rolex ever

[@scrhunter3901]

Love zhis zenith because the movement, the rotor and the more maskuline case. But i mast say the daytona is the beautifullst chronograph in my oppinion👍🏻 great video

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you, I don't blame you, the Daytona is still a capolavoro. Best regards, TGV

[@dennisthespeedmenace7530]

You’ve showed me my dream and grail Tgv. I love the history and that Rolex needed Zenith. I’m a sucker for dials and love the tri color chrono dial definitely with the black dial. I wear a Tudor and I’d prefer the Zenith. I’m a underdog kinda fellow!

[@theurbangentry]

I can totally relate to that, I am very much the same way. The underdog always has the more honorable struggle. Great comment, thank you Dennis, and this being your grail, PURE CLASS. O&U. Best regards, TGV

[@IntegraAEM]

While this is clearly the better watch, 9 out of 10 pplwill still go Daytona for the brand recongnition and value retention sadly. Great video I really like the history of Zenith

[@MaurizioAzzalini]

Bravo TGV ! Video fantastico come al solito! ❤

[@theurbangentry]

Grazie Mille Maurizio! Best regards, TGV

[@rbrant65]

And it has to be mentioned that you'll likely spend at least two or three times the cost of the Zenith to obtain that Daytona. Regardless of cost, though, I prefer the Zenith.

[@Stanjara]

I would go for the 38mm Chronomaster Original... If I could. Great review as always! Onwards and upwards.

[@chrisbrant6596]

Wonderful video. In my opinion Zenith is #1.

[@Vusseyv881]

I think I’m going to get one. I was in the market for a Daytona, but don’t like paying overs.

[@mgwaite10]

I took a look at one yesterday, oh very very nice. Wears smaller than you'd expect. I really want one but can't justify that sort of money!!

[@johnt2694]

Excellent video!! Zenith Chronos look amazing!! If I was to get one, would be white on the bracelet but wish it was fully brushed.

[@Silentwitness1978]

The exposed caseback showing that fantastic movement with all its colours and finishes is what makes it for me. I also really like the "star" logo on the rotor, seconds hand etc.