October 2, 2026
A New Three-Hand Sport Watch from Zenith
Swiss watchmaker Zenith has unveiled its Chronomaster Solo Sport collection, launching with four high-beat automatic models that use a three-hand layout. The line is positioned as a time-only counterpart to the hugely successful Chronomaster Sport Chronograph and as a more practical option than the Defy Extreme Diver. It has already earned the playful nickname “three-hand Daytona.” Beyond the shared bracelet and design language, however, it is a genuinely distinct watch, packed with the details serious enthusiasts want. The catch is cost. Zenith usually competes on value, but this collection carries a noticeable premium that the brand will need to justify.
Models, Dimensions, and Pricing
The no-date reference 03.5000.3620/21.M5000 pairs a black ceramic dial with a black ceramic bezel and costs $9,800 USD. That is $1,100 less than its date-equipped twin, reference 03.5000.3620/22.M5000. The white-dial (03.5000.3620/69.M5000) and brown-dial (03.5001.3620/72.M5000) versions come only with a date and retail for $10,900 USD. Offering the black dial with or without a date echoes Rolex’s approach with the Submariner. The polished steel cases measure 40mm, slightly smaller than the 41mm chronograph. Water resistance doubles to 200 meters, aided by a screw-down crown.
Solid Ceramic Craftsmanship
A standout feature is the unidirectional bezel, which is made entirely from ceramic. Most rivals instead set a ceramic insert into a steel frame. Zenith’s approach makes the vulnerable edges far more scratch-resistant and gives the bezel a richer look. Its cut markers are filled with luminous paint. The dials are also ceramic and carry a repeating El Primero “high frequency” motif. Bold hands and applied markers ensure excellent legibility. A flat, AR-coated sapphire crystal covers the dial, while a sapphire caseback reveals the movement.
Movement and the New ZENCLASP
Inside is the in-house El Primero caliber 3620, which runs at 5Hz (36,000 bph) and offers a 60-hour power reserve. The no-date model uses the same movement but omits the date wheel. The collection also marks the first significant rollout of ZENCLASP, a discreet micro-adjust clasp reminiscent of Rolex’s Glidelock. It provides 10mm of extension in 2.5mm increments, uses 41 parts, and has been tested for at least 600,000 opening and closing cycles. Much of its lengthy development went into avoiding rival patents.
Final Verdict
The Chronomaster Solo Sport is pricey, especially since the chronograph costs less than $3,000 more. Even so, it is beautiful, comfortable, and versatile. Expect future variations in case materials, colors, and dial configurations.
#Zenith #ChronomasterSoloSport #ElPrimero #LuxuryWatches #SwissWatches #Horology