Further detailing includes Rhodium plated hands and hour markers with SuperLuminova coating, outer Tachymeter scale, and round chronograph pushers at 2 and 4. The reverse side features a sapphire display back showcasing the 410 Movement with the oscillating weight finished in Côtes de Geneve pattern and Zenith’s signature star logo. My typical disdain for display backs doesn’t apply to the 410 (or to any El Primero, for that matter), due to the terrific appearance of the high-beat manufacture movement. Finishing off the aesthetics of the Triple Calendar are a brown alligator leather strap with contrast stitching and a signed deployant clasp. In summation, the aesthetics of the piece are supremely impressive, a terrific execution combining vintage and modern elements.

As with any great timepiece, in my opinion, the El Primero 410 is much more than the sum of its parts and aesthetics. It pulls together its physical elements effectively, sure, but it also inspires an emotional response with a certain amount of indefinable je ne sais quos. For me personally, the elements of style –particularly the classic calendar layout and sharp case combine perfectly with the way the light catches the silver sunburst dial and blue elements that just makes it shine in the most delightful way. It is thoughtfully sized for the modern man, and is also intelligently priced. Knowing the pedigree of the exceptional (and historically noteworthy) in-house movement ticking underneath just wraps it all up with a bow.

Essentially, it had me at “hello”.

The Zenith El Primero 410 Triple Calendar is set to be produced in a limited edition run of 500 pieces, and will be priced around $11,000 USD. If you’re in the market for a steel calendar chronograph with terrific vintage-inspired looks and an in-house movement, you’d do well to consider this one. zenithwatches.com