Zenith has now completed its Chronomaster Revival series with the launch of the A3818 ‘Cover Girl Carbon’. This model follows earlier re-editions that revived the original blue-dial A3818 – a model that appeared on the cover of Manfred Rössler’s 2009 book on Zenith. In 2020, a steel version was introduced, followed by a titanium model two years later. The latest release uses forged carbon, offering an alternative approach to the well-known Cover Girl name.

The original A3818 earned its nickname due to the blue dial that caught the attention of many enthusiasts. Despite the departure from that colour in this new edition, the design retains key elements from the original A384. Zenith and Revolution have worked together over several years to reissue the Cover Girl, with each model reflecting changes in material and weight reduction.

The Chronomaster Revival A3818 ‘Cover Girl Carbon’ is built with high-modulus forged carbon fibre. The case measures 37 mm in diameter, 12.5 mm in thickness, and spans 47 mm from lug to lug. The crown, pushers, and dial are also made in carbon, contributing to a cohesive design language. A PVD-treated Grade 5 titanium case back – fitted with a sapphire window – helps maintain water resistance of up to 50 metres. This combination of materials has allowed Zenith to reduce the weight significantly compared to earlier models.

The dial is crafted from matte black forged carbon and features a ‘shark tooth’ chronograph scale. Integrated around the dial are pulsometer and tachymeter markings. Each index, as well as the sub-dial rings, is filled with Super-LumiNova to aid readability in low-light conditions. While the original blue dial is absent, the overall layout continues to reflect the design heritage of the A384 model.

At the heart of the watch lies Zenith’s in-house El Primero 400 calibre. This automatic chronograph movement operates at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz) and provides a power reserve of 50 hours. The movement utilises a column-wheel mechanism and is partially visible through the sapphire case back, which also offers a view of the skeletonised rotor marked with the Zenith star.

Collectors have two choices regarding how to wear the ‘Cover Girl Carbon’. The first option is a ladder-style carbon fibre bracelet inspired by Gay Frères designs. This version, available in a very limited run of 10 pieces, brings the total weight of the watch to approximately 59 grams. The second option is a carbon fibre Velcro strap, which further reduces the weight to 55 grams and is offered in a limited edition of 150 pieces. Additionally, a variant has been produced exclusively for the Middle Eastern market; this version features modified dial markings, including Hindu-Arabic numerals at 12 o’clock, as well as revised sub-dial details.

Comparing the materials used in previous editions highlights the development effort behind the new model. The initial steel version weighed around 110.6 grams, while the titanium model brought this down to 78.2 grams. The introduction of forged carbon has reduced the weight even further, underscoring Zenith’s focus on material efficiency without altering the core design elements.

The ‘Cover Girl Carbon’ is offered in two configurations. The version with the carbon fibre bracelet is priced at €28,400, whereas the model with the Velcro strap is available for €12,870. Limited production runs ensure that only a select number of each version is made: 10 pieces for the bracelet option, 150 pieces for the Velcro strap, with an additional 50 pieces reserved for the Middle Eastern market.

The Zenith Chronomaster Revival A3818 ‘Cover Girl Carbon’ concludes the Cover Girl series by introducing forged carbon as its primary material. While departing from the original blue dial, the watch retains the design characteristics that made the original A384 model recognisable. By focussing on weight reduction and utilising innovative materials, Zenith and Revolution have presented a model that meets the needs of collectors who value both technical refinement and design consistency.

This release serves as the final chapter in a series that has explored different approaches to reinterpreting a classic model.

We offer a comprehensive overview of Zenith’s range, highlighting both its storied past and its ongoing innovations. One piece examines the refined approach of the Chronomaster Blue, while another discusses how the Chronomaster series continues to update traditional design principles. The Defy range is explored from multiple angles, with articles detailing its historical roots, the introduction of a new carbon-fibre model, and the latest Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton 2025. Additional coverage of the Zenith Cairelli CP-2 and the popular Zenith El Primero further illustrates the brand’s commitment to technical advancement and design evolution, while the Chronomaster Sport adds a fresh perspective with its colourful precision. Together, these articles provide clear insight into Zenith’s balanced approach to heritage and modernity in watchmaking.