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.

[@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.

[@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!!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@larrysimon1]

Warning: The Zenith Chronomaster Sport has a number of flaws with its movement, Many have been returned for warranty repairs and Zenith was forced to do a re engineer of the bridge to reinforce it as it was causing problems in August 2022. All new Chronomaster from that date should be better, many early versions had the dreaded second hand creep when that function had not been activated. Check any watch for sale as preowned, chances are the owner has given up on it after returning it to Zenith more than once !!!!!

[@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.....

[@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.

[@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).

[@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

[@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.

[@spx1416]

significanlty better in every way than a daytona from an engineering prospective. unless you are one of the sheep who pay stupid money for a rolex because you know nothing about watches and have only heard of rolex or AP from youtuber's, this is a fantastic watch in everyway and makes a daytona look as overpriced as they are.

[@MrKinghuman]

it seems strange to call zenith cheaper? theyre less expensive and readily available to buy, but rolex lives and dies by two watches, over priced and boring. zenith is an all around better watch company. sure, rolex makes an excellent watch, but your buying a name and the ability to say i wear a rolex.

[@davidcrandall4958]

Are you people all children? the Zenith movement was the heart of the Rolex Daytona years ago!

[@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

[@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

[@jamess8175]

A screw-down crown would be complete, at this price. Is it cost-cutting?

[@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.

[@kennybacchus1488]

Zenith S. Daytona. Killer or a cheaper Rolex Ripoff ?

[@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.

[@Horizontalvertigo]

I'd rather the new TAG Glassbox Carrera personally

[@stevenfoleyuk9404]

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

[@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.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

Zenith makes amazing watches… and the movements are, in my opinion, superior to Rolex, in every way… That shouldn’t be surprising, though, as they made movements for Rolex for many years was notably the Daytona. I would take this zenith over the Rolex any day… If I offered both of the watches, I would take the Rolex, sell it, and then buy the zenith, and then an omega!

[@gmshadowtraders]

😅😅

[@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 😅

[@refugiogolf1]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@Moissanyte]

Quite unfair to call the El Primero a ripoff of the Daytona considering that Daytonas used to use El Primero movements.

[@theurbangentry]

I totally agree, but then again, I don't want to give spoilers away for the content of this video 😉🥂 Thank you M, enjoy! Best regards, TGV

[@THX-C]

The appeal of the Chronomaster is the movement. It’s impressive how thin it is but Zenith has been doing this for a long time and without the El Primero, there would never have been a Daytona. You’re reading about Zenith trolling Rolex is not only true but had me laughing. Who else except JLC is so regarded because even Patek and Cartier used them.

[@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!

[@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

[@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 !

[@atreidis3946]

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

[@EpicSnuggleBunny]

The White dialed version is on my short list 👍🏻

[@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.

[@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.

[@TOCoclock]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@seanwarren5613]

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

[@BRV2728]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@zillsburyy1]

ill take a ZENITH over rolex

[@edgarkrattiger9185]

Zenith?!?! WARNING!!!! I sent my Zenith watch 4 a overhouling back 2 the manufacturer and got it back in a worster condition then before..🤔🤔🤔🤔😣😣

[@baltazar8763]

never understood what's great about Rolex..... I would go Zenith, Breitling. But Zenith El Primero 1969 would be my favourite

[@joliverlie151]

I prefer Zenith El primo than Rolex Daytona. Because history , complication and design. Daytona to many homage, clone, fake ..so boring, and when wearing Daytona people will think...its or8ginal, or clone, fake,homage.😂

[@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.

[@ricardorgomez]

Thanks for the great video! I got turned onto this brand a few weeks ago by Teddy B. and I absolutely love it! While Zenith and Rolex may be included in some of the watch categories, I see a completely different style with each. I like and appreciate Rolex. But I REALLY love the Zenith watches. I think the design is a little more bold. It's really just a preference. But in terms of pure looks, I prefer the Zenith.

[@A_A_Ron]

LOVE THE CHRONOMASTER………now if they’d only change the location of the date window

[@caseyzaft6734]

The Sub 114060 still is the best iteration of Rolex ever

[@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.

[@FT4Freedom]

I like the early 37mm plunger case Daytona. It's a part of my American heritage. I own a good American-produced, 37mm, 6239 microbrand homage. I'm not a fan of Rolex, but the 6239 is a special piece and a good tool. I do love Zenith but luxury is not my lifestyle.

[@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.

[@newmexico511]

I found the Zenith Revival A385 irresistible. It's 1969 again, only better in every way. Groovy.

[@clark3830]

My dear friend: Check out ALL 3 of Seiko's NEW GMT's! (SPB385, SPB381, SPB383). So refined and polished both diver and GMT.

[@Bacardi4live]

An impressive and great watch company which makes awesome and impressive watches but unfortunatly flying under the radar and not get the attention it deserves!! Even if you go from the listprice the Chronomaster gives so much more value for the money in comparison to the daytona but unfortunatly it do not get the attention.. I think it was a wrong decision from Zenith to increase the production of the Chronomaster Sport instead of going the Rolex waitlist way. If they would have done it like this i think there would be much more attention and it would be a real competitor to the daytona from a marketing/demand perspective - and maybe this would have influenced the way of thinking for Rolex (more innovative models, complete new difference daytona, etc.). I really hope that Zenith will reduce the production again or discontinue it to get more attention on this masterpiece of watch. For me the watch has only three downsides 1. The clasp which feels not so highquality like the rest 2. There is no quick change system for the bracelet and 3. It is almost impossible to decide between the white and black model 😉 but I took the white one because i love the contrast. An additional information i have not read anywhere and also nobody is speaking about is that the three colors of the chronograph counters are the color of the sky (day, night and storm)..this information was given to me by a Zenith dealer.

[@m.e.p.r]

Love the brand, have just never found the right model for me ❤

[@onceuponascale]

No doubt by reading through the comment how much love zenith gets. And not so much for rolex. Because when you know watches. Well, you know watches;)😊

[@karlsenula9495]

I have to be honest while I like and appreciate Rolex designs there has been so much smack talk, snobbery, poo pooing (to use the technical term) of other brands by Rolex fans on watch videos and forums, not to mention, sooo much uber hyping every year they release something - often underwhelming imo (crown on the left, different colorway, gem stones, 1mm smaller woo hoo!!! 🙄), wait lists, availability issues and ever inflating (not merely increasing but ballooning) prices that it has had the opposite affect ... it has actually turned me off from purchasing/ desiring a Rolex. From watching watch videos I have found many other quality brands often with heritage that intrigue me even more from Tissot to Longines and Oris, Christopher Ward to Yema, Sinn to Marathon, Bulova to Hamilton, Doxa to Squale, Hanhart to Fortis, Omega to Tudor (yes I know the quieter half of Rolex) and yes even Zeneth.. To be fair it is not all Rolex's fault and Seiko has had a similar affect on me for similar reasons. Nice designs ... too much baggage. Again just one person's opinion.

[@bikerob1231]

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

[@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.

[@rasmusalbrektsen4292]

Fantastic watch! But, TGV: In some of your last videos, you have told that the servicing of your watches (Rolexes) amounts to the price of a new luxury watch, and you have also said that you prefer the ETA/Valjoux-movements in watches because of the easier servicing. The Primero has very high beat rate, which, I reckon, normally would require more servicing and also in house movement. Does that not influence your opinion of this watch?

[@glucas369]

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

[@wozmac771]

Seems you are using clickbait to increase views. How is it possible that a better movement is called a ripoff? I respect, understand and like the Rolex brand, but if I have to overpay for time and chronograph, I can just buy the JLC or Zenith Annual Calendar, in that price with a few extra complications including a chronograph, that are helpful.

[@saulclemente2560]

Completely off topic from this video, a while back you reviewed the 40mm PRX auto and said if only it were unisex sized you’d get that watch. Given that Tissot just releases the new 35mm prx auto’s, would you still consider getting one? Given that you’re trying to slim down your collection 😅

[@waffle911]

If I were looking at luxury chronos that dress up and down, the only two brands I'd be looking at are Zenith and Breitling. The Daytona and Speedmaster are just too obvious, and I'm completely over them.

[@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.

[@waterfordrs22]

I’m not too interested in the pissing match between this and the Daytona. I’m not a big fan of modern Daytonas. I do think the Daytona of today has a little bit better proportions. The Zenith does a better at delivering a functional “sports” chronograph whatever that may be. The Sport offers 100 meters of water resistance without the arguably ugly pusher design of the Daytona. The ability to time to a tenth of a second easily and legibly is pretty cool for a complication one could otherwise replace with a dive bezel in daily life. So, I’d think anyone interested in a Daytona should take a look at a Zenith Sport even if it’s only for perspective. Zenith really know how to make great chronographs. After all that, I would look beyond the Sport and give a long hard look at the El Primero Original which is an updated version of the ever stunning A386, there are glimpses of it in this video. You give up sone water resistance, but it’s a better proportioned watch imo. It ditches the external tachymeter scale, I’d choose a Speedmaster if I went that direction. The Original is the watch id compare to the Daytona if specs aren’t the sole metric. It’s design language is true to it’s roots. The Chronomaster Revival series, I own an A385, there’s a panda A384. Those are stunning chronographs, basically vintage watches. The Gay Frere ladder bracelet is way better in person….. then they offer more modern interpretations of the tonneau cased chronographs, some of them stunning as well. The Sport is cool, any individual is free to draw their own conclusions on its aesthetic and design language. Either way, it’s simply the tip of the iceberg of what is arguably the best family of chronographs today. There’s simply so many stunners. That’s rare.

[@DonLee1980]

I'd buy this over a Daytona for sure. The Daytona is one of it not the most overrated watch of all time. Nobody realistically uses a chronograph ever. A date and rotating bezel, or a GMT is much more useful.

[@anorax001]

The Zenith face and movement are beautiful. I love how much of the movement is on display. It makes Rolex equivalent look boring. As for the hard to find 12 position just look for the star! 😁

[@rowauthority]

While both are out of my price range, I have long been a fan of Zenith. As it turns out, I also can't help but see Rolex as having a Nouveau Riche, conspicuous consumption, cachet. That leaves me an "Anything but Rolex" kind of guy.

[@stevepapa]

"you got the little two dots.. and uh you know the... *whistle noise*... at the twelve o'clock" 😂😂😂

[@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.

[@ma9ical1]

Beautiful watch but it’s not COSC certified. On mine (the boutique edition), it loses about 10 to 15 secs a day despite having it serviced by the company recently. The main issue is the clasp that really feels cheap for the price. Overall I do not regret buying it as it looks amazing, but it has its quirks.

[@cj-hw3pv]

Ebay has a 15% coupon on timepieces 2000k +, ends today, if anybody been wanting to pull the trigger on something you've had your eye on.

[@essdee800]

Zenith is better.

[@yusufalhajj9814]

Absolutely beautiful watch, but I can not stand the different color sub dials. Completely throws me off. Don’t get me wrong, I’d happily accept if someone offered me one 😉

[@user-tc3qd2pk6x]

lol TGV... I am pretty sure the wonderful Max Mariola would agree that tenths of seconds are not necessary when cooking "al dente" pasta... Un abbraccio e buon appetito! 🍝

[@danedaniels3686]

Actual the Daytona is a copy of the Zenith Chrono. Rolex did not have a Chrono movement and bought then from Zenith through the 90’s

[@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.

[@oldsnwbrdr]

Rolex isn’t a brand for watch lovers anymore. It’s for wealth flaunters. I’ll take my Zenith thank you.

[@badgerresistance4322]

Rolex is better at marketing, and it markets what it is. A flexing time piece. It could be quartz but as along it says Rolex people would pay the same price over a Breitling, Zenith, or Omega.

[@InGratitudeIam]

When wearing this watch in the dark, if you can't tell where the 12 O'clock position is, you've got much more serious problems requiring your immediate attention.

[@charleshermetix3886]

Always hated modern iterations of the Daytona. The Zenith blows it away IMO,and they have every right to go for the almost same design,while still looking way better again,IMO. One of my favorite things to admire are indices,and i fkin hate the Daytonas,while i love the Zeniths. Cooler pushers,caseback and price make it a way better package for me.

[@Chenxi_love_music_fairy]

Sometimes it is better to have more watches than just one watch. In this case I would not recommend a Daytona or Zenith chrono. Instead using less money I have bought a manual wound Omega 3861 speedmaster pro, a Hamilton jazzmaster two-tone panda chrono, a Swatch big bold chrono as well as a Swatch moon watch chrono. So I have four stunning good chronograph. Using less amount of money I have gained more values and much more funs by rotating watches daily.

[@clark3830]

Basically it beats Rolex and is a better deal. Actually, Seiko's is even a better deal. Rolex is a snob watch making it no deal for any person if the want real value for the dollar. I am done with Rolex all together. I raced for Faza and licensed in IMSA and SCCA during the Breitling big days of racing. Formula was my favorite style. I agree with you about its actually use as a tool watch. We used hand stop watches not the wrist watch.

[@Noofa23]

What about Zenith A384? I think you should check that out. For me, that's more beautiful looking watch.

[@river1duck]

Personally, I always favored the A3818 “Cover Girl”. Sadly I never seen it in person. Nor the new Airweight version either

[@traviswatts6661]

I would buy the Zenith over the Rolex Daytona and it’s not even close. The Daytona is the most overhyped Rolex timepiece in my opinion. The El Primero is more interesting both aesthetically and horological.

[@frankdefranco9436]

Normally I hate all those KZbinr Swiss watch snobs. NUT the reason I love Urban Gentry is he is a watch maniac, in a good way. He drink, eat and live watches.

[@kevinbutler1968]

Zenith every time, I have the A386 Manufacture revival and think it's my most beautiful watch.

[@Theo-ul8qm]

I think it's a shame that this watch looks so similar to a Daytona. Personally I prefer the bezelless Zenith chronographs, which are more true to their history. I think this watch looks good, but the bracelet, clasp and ceramic bezel make it appear like a larger, clunkier Daytona. I would wager it wears a little bigger and heavier too. And the 1/10 sec on the main dial is a bit gimmicky for a watch with such history and priced where this is priced. It's probably a decent seller, but I'd go for other Zenith models personally.

[@allanredford6070]

cer< well-made cideo. u r the brst! like this watch, like Zenith. likeBently over RR. it has my vote. look at that workmanship, action.

[@fraserstewart4386]

I'm going to say Zenith, purely because it has the advantage over the Rolex in that you can actually buy one. In all honesty, it feels a bit pointless comparing any watch to a Rolex, because it's not possible to go into an AD or a Boutique and actually buy one there and then, so it's just not an option for most people. Also, I think the Rolex Daytona is wildly overrated. It's almost become a fashion watch, because everybody has to have one. I'm not saying it's a bad watch, it's a good watch, but the fact that everybody wants one just so they can say they've got one has really put me off Rolex in a big way.