Thanks so much for your concern and appreciation! We are not sure what happened at RUclips, but we are extremely grateful that they were able to quickly resolve it! --Team WatchBox
Thanks so much for this kind note, Andres! Honestly, it was a crushing feeling and a total mystery. The miracle was that somebody at Google/RUclips clearly took a personal interest in fixing this immediately. Typically, these things take weeks or months to resolve. Best, Tim
1. I like a date 2. I like to see a nice movement 3. I don’t like waiting. 4. I don’t like to be mugged off with over inflated prices just so I can have my inferiority complex treated by strangers compliments 5. Money talks, wealth whispers.
Yesterday I bought El Primero. I am not going to be put on a waiting list for the privilege of forking over 13K nor will I pay 3 times or more over retail for pre-owned! As you pointed out at one time Zenith made the Daytona movement, no small deal when you are looking at heritage and D.N.A. For me it's El Primero all the way.
@@robertsullivan4773 The Daytona is hardly 'king'. Regardless, i love it. Not for the $30k its trading at or even the MSRP of $12k to be honest though. It may have cache but its not really 'King' of anything... its not the most accurate, its not the most expensive, its movement tech isnt even that updated... you are paying for the look.
LOVE the Zenith. great watch all around, inside out. i tried to like the Daytona for many years. couldn't love it enough to buy it. THANK YOU. Great review,,,,
I'd get the Zenith. I have a personal history with the brand, and I nowadays I feel like a lot of people buy Rolexes for the resale value. While not unreasonable, there's just some manner of stigma in my head of that emphasis on resale value being tied to necessity. I think watches should be very personal, and luxury watches should kinda burn money, to some extent.
2 years late with this comment, but just wanted to say I feel the same way. I respect the Daytona for sure, but the El Primero looks way more unique, has a much more interesting movement, see through caseback is gorgeous, and the tri-color dial pops.
On the matter of bracelet tolerances, while I can agree that the clasp on the Rolex is a lot better, tight tolerances are desirable in engineering terms, a bracelet has to be able to move in more than one dimension. It's a case of it moves or it breaks.
I just never got the Daytona thing. I'm a big Rollie fan and it's a nice enough watch but as far a chronos go...eh. The Zenith is superior in every way outside of the thickness and the clasp in my opinion. There is no Daytona without the El Primero. Screw down pushers and no view of the movement means the Daytona won't be nearly as fun to play with while your supposed to be working....ha ha....
I completely agree, I have NEVER understood the Daytona craze, and I would never, I mean never, pay $13,000 for it. Sorry, you'd have to be nuts to spend that kind of money for what you get.
I managed to get this Zenith in May. It’s a fantastic watch in every way. I love when people ask me if it’s a Rolex and I start talking about it. It’s not quite a Daytona, and I know that, but it’s great in its own right. Good review, Tim.
I have one also and initially struggled but then was told to release by pressing sides of clasp and pull not finger tip under the end which is a struggle.
I have the 116500LN and am planning on getting the Zenith next. Both are beautiful watches that deserve their spot in every serious collection. Great video comparing the two!
Zenith, at it's core, is a far superior watch! Rolex has nothing close to the El Primero movement! For a few millimeters more of thickness you get a far superior movement. All the other stuff is styling and Zenith is easily almost equivalent in that department...better for remaining true to being the more precise chronograph! I guess these watch dealers like the extra $10K they get over list price for the Daytona, but that just makes me a hell of a lot happier to own a Zenith!
It seems like the reviewer put a premium on the robustness of the Rolex in terms gauging which movement is superior. Did you also come away with that impression?
Whilst Rolex did put in a ton of work n changes n marketing magic... Of which we do have to give Rolex credit... But Ask any watchmaker n they'll tell you One thing... The dial is determined by the movement. What goes where is already pre-determined once the movement is decided. One could argue that the Rolex is the better watch, but even with extensive 'improvements' instilled n patents n all... Whether Daytona owners are really gonna appreciate all that 'tech' is still subjective. Not everyone who buys a Daytona will even actually bother about that. I'll put it this way... For the marketing n the bracelet, I'll give one to Rolex. But since it's false marketing n they always take credit even when it's not theirs.... Nor treat their customers or fans right, I simply cannot concur. Hence, my next 3 points goes to Zenith, for the movement n for keeping up the great work n still keeping their Watches Available, No Artifical Shortages to push prices up n Hence keeping Prices Right! So yes, the Zenith is my choice, Not the Rolex, Nor any other Rolexes for the matter. I just don't believe in 'factory-made-luxury' nonsense.
Getting rid of the tachometer made the dial less busy. Adding the date window is counter to the concept of simplicity but it’s still the more minimalist presentation.
thats why it is 30% cheaper even comparing the retail price, not to mention we cant get the daytona at retail price. but it is already good enough for me
@@SillytanN I have vintage watches with bracelets over 50 years old with simple cheap pressed clasps - and they still do their job and work perfectly. This clasp stuff is overrated.
The Zenith's dial looks so much nicer to me. The sub dials look amazing, the indexes look better and more uniform. The white is more subtle and nicer shade than that stark copy paper white. The Rolex is better overall and will appreciate but, you have to decide is it "that much" better? You could get the Zenith and a stack of other really nice watches for the price difference.
Is this look not just the el primero that has been made since 1969 with a bezel (used to count 1/10) so how can anyone say it is a homage to the daytona?
I am fortunate to have come into possession of my grandpa’s Zenith El Primero A386. He flew planes and raced cars recreationally. He used his watch to time his flights and he used the tachymeter scale on the race track as well. I like the look of the Chronomaster sport, but its inability to time things beyond an hour would have made it useless for him and the tachymeter would have been missed. Maybe I don’t need those things now, but if I’m paying this kind of money, I’d like it to at least be hypothetically useful. If they created a version did away with the tenth of a second scale, and went back to the tachymeter scale (keeping it on a ceramic bezel) and 12 hour subdial, and included hacking seconds, which the old models lack, I’d certainly buy it to compliment the vintage model.
Loved the video! A friend said get the Zenith, but the width is a show stopper for me. I will probably buy a Speedmaster and wait for a Rolex from an AD.
Im here to get info on the Zenith. I refuse to be a Rolex slave. If I want to buy a watch, I want to be tje customer. Not the other way around like Rolex thinks about the buyer's
The Daytona might hold its value better but the Zenith is better in like 9/10 ways to me. If they suddenly switched the badge, or people could get over their Rolex obsession, people would be picking that Zenith look and movement over the Rolex the vast majority of the time. The Daytona might win in resale value and “hype”, but I’d take the Zenith over it any day of the week
great video. Lucky to own chronomaster sport white dial and am curious to know which of the bezel is wider. To anyone who owns both please let me know. I am on the fence that Daytona’s bezel is wider.
I’ve seen the Zenith referred to as a “Daytona homage”, an “Impersonator” and a “nearly identical watch”. Yet, to my eyes, it differs noticeably from the Rolex in almost every detail. The three subdials look completely different in design and layout as does the dial text. The markers are also quite different and the Zenith also has a date. The pushers are totally different as is the crown and the absence of crown guards. Even the case is distinct from the Rolex. Yes, it’s a white dial/black bezel chronograph on a steel bracelet but I for one could easily distinguish one from the other at a distance. So, whilst I don’t doubt for a second that Zenith have made a watch (possibly intentionally) that’s going to appeal to anyone who likes the Daytona aesthetic, to describe it as nearly identical is overstating the case just a bit.
I agree to this as well.. Plus there are many more watches in the same style that could be said the same thing about, its looking like a daytona! For me i´d take the Zenith any way of the week.
The Daytona probably wouldn't exist without Zenith. It was El Primero powered for 20 years (albeit with about half the parts replaced and the bet rate reduced).
The text on the Daytona has always bothered me. Or, on a lot of Rolex's actually... never not been clear you only buy a Rolex to brag. The Zenith wins, no contest. Date, usable chrono, history, WR w/o use of annoying screw-down pushers, exhibition caseback. Overall better engineering/more watch for your money.
I’m going for the new Tudor BB Chrono. Well...I’m waiting. My AD is getting a couple, soon he thinks, but they’re both spoken for. So hopefully I’m somewhere in line. I’ll probably get the SD 43 first, knowing my luck!
I don't think 1.5mm is going to make a lot of difference. I have worn some thicker watches (I have a Breitling Crosswind which is thicker than the Zenith) and it makes little to no difference.
I am getting a TH carrera vibe from the Zenith, maybe because of the pushers? The Daytona, however, always felt a little too small diameter-wise on my wrist.
$13,000, pass. I have never understood the aesthetics of the Daytona. For that money it wouldn't make my top 20 list. There are so many watches that are much nicer you could buy for that cash. I guess if your main concern is resale value, the Rolex wins, but other than that, you can keep it. That particular Zenith doesn't do it for me, I'd take the hand-wound version so you can see the movement in all its beauty. I can't help but sort of laugh at the prospect of going on a "waiting list" for any watch, or being asked about my income. The day someone at a watch dealer asks me about my income is they day I laugh in their face and walk out.
Why do the cased up movement and the uncased movement specs re: COSC/Superlative COSC certification change? As is in, can anyone explain why those two numbers would be different?
@@kolbymartineau3706 Yes it would. These things are extremely sensitive, and casing involves clamping the base plate, adding hands, and running the watch at length. Also, the COSC yes includes identical daily winding, and it's unlikely that an automatic watch will receive *exactly* the same amount of winding each day on the wrist. That has a major impact on how a cased watch keeps time. Best, Tim
@@the1916companywatchreviews Thank you! Thats exactly what I didnt understand... even just adding hands would change things... I didnt realize they could even test a movement without them lol
Love the dial on Zenith, but the clasp and the thickness self-explains the finesse of Rolex. But truly do not like the attention that it may draw by wearing a daytona.
My only issue with the Zenith is the date at the 4:30 mark. However, it is a beautiful watch - especially with that sapphire case back display. I do prefer the slimmer profile on the Rolex, but I do not like how they omit sapphire case back displays. I feel It is also a cleaner look without the date. Ignoring resale value, in my opinion, the Zenith is by far a better buy.
Very similar, yeah it has a white face and black bezel. It has far more differences than similarities. Zenith is just a much more interesting and better looking watch for me. Funny how no one has said the black faced one is a copy.
I know I’m 3 years later. But the rose gold zenith really speaks to me lately. The Daytonas are going down in price but the way the grey dealers are starting to act as if they’re ADs. Is just getting laughable 😅. Rolex has put me off so badly, I wanted a Wimbledon, a Daytona or an Explorer II, now I don’t want to be near that kind, also there’s been shitloads of scams with Rolex in EU, and people are daily getting robbed. So far I’ve only had one look at the watches I wear and it was a new Tudor bb41 burgundy by potential thief’s. I’m going for the zenith or JLC next, I’m just done playing games, I’m not even getting an OP by Rolex 😂😂😂 they put me on a list but said it would take years
Zenith for me please. Daytona doesn't have a date, and a chronometer that's practically useless in today's standards. At least the Zenith's actually works up to the 0.1 second.
don't like the date on Zenith..... also don't be mad if someone asks "is that a Rolex?" or "is that a Daytona?" 😂😂... overall a freakin good watch by Zenith!
Only thing that can be called "Rolex inspired" is the ceramic bezel and clasp. Zenith had similar bracelets in the past, the sub-dials are heritage, as it the case design. Also, Rolex did not pioneer the ceramic bezel on a watch. Lots of other watches have the same look, Rolex fan-boys pick on the Zenith given the intertwined history of the brands. No mention of the crown jewel here even when talking about smoothness, technical prowess or power reserve, the El Primero beats over almost 9,000 times per hour.
Save yourself about 5k and get the Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 38mm Mens Watch 03.2150.400/53.c700. Looks NOTHING like the Daytona, and is definitively an El Primero.
Where is the video on the Daytona being a nice Speedmaster’s homage? As for the Zenith, they messed up with the bracelet, poorly copying the design. The rest of the watch is outstanding with a better dial design, and more advanced movement. The only real advantage of the Rolex is the resell value, assuming prices continue to go up. From this perspective it is the king. For the rest it’s not a better watch (and not better than the speedmaster it copies for that matter).
I don't really like the Daytona but I like the Chronomaster. If Rolex can't meet the demand for a reasonable price then screw them - Zenith can come in and take some sales. People accuse Zenith of copying Rolex and I guess they have, but I don't see how it's much different than a 90s Rolex Daytona having a Zenith movement in it.
Rolex using Zenith movements was a commercial agreement between the two companies. This is blatant copying of design elements without consultation. It's completely different.
@@stewester There's no obligation to consult with another company when you take design elements from them. That is unless they have taken out design patents, which Rolex haven't for the Daytona. But that comes back to the question - what is a 1990's Daytona? It's half Zenith. But Rolex bought the movement? Still doesn't make the most critical part of the watch any more Rolex. That's Zenith's achievement.
@@earthenjadis8199 I'm not saying it's illegal for Zenith to copy the design, just shameful and very different to an agreement to supply movements. The fact that Rolex chose the El Primero for the first automatic Daytona shows just what an incredible movement it is, but it doesn't give Zenith free rein to start copying Rolex aesthetic design in the present day.
@@stewester the most popular watch is the superlative daytona, not to el primero daytona. El primero was the great movement but now the 4130 beats it not only by an inch. Zenith fans should just move on instead of trying to take too much credit. Show some appreciation to the great improvement that rolex achieved over the past 2 decades
@@SillytanN no doubt the 4130 is the better movement from a pure technical perspective but it lacks the history and intriguing quirkiness of the 4030 in my opinion. I also prefer the Zenith watches as a whole with their tritium dials, brushed lug tops and subdials which are level with the centre of the dial. I find the 116520 somewhat soulless in comparison. Each to their own though.
Hey Tim, I was wondering if the straps that are made for the Daytona would fit on the el primero? I’m talking the likes of the Everest bands curved lugs straps as I’m a big fan of these!
Thanks for an awesome video. Gets one really thinking! Id like to ask a very subjective question tho. Seeing how you seem to like the Breguet Type XXII 3880 reference - which watch would you pick as a offtime watch? The Zenith we see here or the TypeXXII? I have a 20ishcm wrist size, so the 44mm of the Breguet dont bother me; rather unsure about the 17.2-17.4mm thickness however..
1: among the two Ofc go for Rolex because it prints “Rolex” 2: neither of watches is good buy for personal uses at current price point. Rolex is the way to go but there are better looking models at better price points
In my opninion. If you can buy just one of them, almost no one would go for the Zenith (supposing both are avaiable at retail price and not to resell ovb)
To me the video is ever so slightly slanted towards Rolex but honesty the Zenith is a much nicer looking watch. There’s no doubt that Zenith has struct a nerve here and is seriously threatening Rolex on multiple fronts which is why these videos are popping up all over the place. The most serious blow is coming from “movement aficionados” who find the Zenith’s movement superior to the Rolex. Just curious, can you use the Zenith’s second hand to move at a normal rate (60 seconds) instead of 10 seconds.
Unfortunately, the few people who actually notice you are wearing a watch, will think the Rolex is a fake. Until you walk into a watch store, most people could care less whether you are wearing a watch or not. With that in mind, wear the watch that pleases YOU ( and does not cause your wife to seek a divorce attorney )!
The Zenith appeals more to me and not only because of the price difference.
I'm so glad the channel is back up. I'll never again take it for granted!!!
Thanks so much for your concern and appreciation! We are not sure what happened at RUclips, but we are extremely grateful that they were able to quickly resolve it!
--Team WatchBox
Thanks so much for this kind note, Andres! Honestly, it was a crushing feeling and a total mystery. The miracle was that somebody at Google/RUclips clearly took a personal interest in fixing this immediately. Typically, these things take weeks or months to resolve.
Best,
Tim
1. I like a date
2. I like to see a nice movement
3. I don’t like waiting.
4. I don’t like to be mugged off with over inflated prices just so I can have my inferiority complex treated by strangers compliments
5. Money talks, wealth whispers.
Probably the most objective and balanced comparison of these two fantastic watches that I've come across.
Please tell me that’s sarcasm
Yesterday I bought El Primero. I am not going to be put on a waiting list for the privilege of forking over 13K nor will I pay 3 times or more over retail for pre-owned! As you pointed out at one time Zenith made the Daytona movement, no small deal when you are looking at heritage and D.N.A. For me it's El Primero all the way.
Congrats! Make sure to enjoy every second 😊
Already own the Daytona, but just bought the Zenith too! What the hey!
Same
Same. jk I can't afford either...yet, haha. Nice watches, enjoy.
Nice dice. When provided with two options I just buy both.
would love to see the new Tudor Chrono Panda vs the Rolex Daytona
The new Tudor has a Breitling B01 in it.
There is nothing to compare stop. Give the king it's due.
@@robertsullivan4773 The Daytona is hardly 'king'. Regardless, i love it. Not for the $30k its trading at or even the MSRP of $12k to be honest though. It may have cache but its not really 'King' of anything... its not the most accurate, its not the most expensive, its movement tech isnt even that updated... you are paying for the look.
@@KMartineauMuisc it's the king of this group of mid level luxury watches and miles ahead of a Tudor Panda is all I meant.
LOVE the Zenith. great watch all around, inside out.
i tried to like the Daytona for many years. couldn't love it enough to buy it. THANK YOU. Great review,,,,
That Zenith is outstanding! It looks bloody fantastic. Well done TM!
I'd get the Zenith. I have a personal history with the brand, and I nowadays I feel like a lot of people buy Rolexes for the resale value. While not unreasonable, there's just some manner of stigma in my head of that emphasis on resale value being tied to necessity.
I think watches should be very personal, and luxury watches should kinda burn money, to some extent.
The zenith looks cooler and is cheaper, and I can actually buy it. Clear win
2 years late with this comment, but just wanted to say I feel the same way. I respect the Daytona for sure, but the El Primero looks way more unique, has a much more interesting movement, see through caseback is gorgeous, and the tri-color dial pops.
Zenith El Primero 100%. The only thing the Daytona has over the El Primero is the bracelet.
And the thickness of the watch, daytona wins.
@@JDDD33 exactly and thickness is everything when it comes to everyday wear 8+ hours at the office.
@@steelsteez6118 If you're wearing business formal sure. Even then the Zenith will slide under the cuff.
On the matter of bracelet tolerances, while I can agree that the clasp on the Rolex is a lot better, tight tolerances are desirable in engineering terms, a bracelet has to be able to move in more than one dimension. It's a case of it moves or it breaks.
I just never got the Daytona thing. I'm a big Rollie fan and it's a nice enough watch but as far a chronos go...eh. The Zenith is superior in every way outside of the thickness and the clasp in my opinion. There is no Daytona without the El Primero. Screw down pushers and no view of the movement means the Daytona won't be nearly as fun to play with while your supposed to be working....ha ha....
I completely agree, I have NEVER understood the Daytona craze, and I would never, I mean never, pay $13,000 for it. Sorry, you'd have to be nuts to spend that kind of money for what you get.
@@supremegalacticcommander2783 i wish i could get the daytona for 13k but sadly now the only way to get it is 36k+ on the grey market
@@Mohamed_Elshekh agreed
The poxy drug dealing junkie fools destroyed some brands Rolex and Canada goose jackets in particular 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Anyone that says 'Rollie' is suspect immediately - then following that with 'Zenith is superior in every way' confirms my suspicions.
I managed to get this Zenith in May. It’s a fantastic watch in every way. I love when people ask me if it’s a Rolex and I start talking about it. It’s not quite a Daytona, and I know that, but it’s great in its own right.
Good review, Tim.
i own the Zenith but it is so damn hard to remove the casp with short nails. I can see Tim struggling as well. But overall it is a great looking watch
David Blaine's nightmare.
I have one also and initially struggled but then was told to release by pressing sides of clasp and pull not finger tip under the end which is a struggle.
it's amazing how Rolex went from THE WORST bracelet to THE BEST.
I have the 116500LN and am planning on getting the Zenith next. Both are beautiful watches that deserve their spot in every serious collection. Great video comparing the two!
You misspoke. Advantage ZENITH (not Rolex) at @11:05
The case back is soooooo muchhhhh better, it is a beautiful movement !!!
You smashing the crystals together is breaking my heart.
Zenith, at it's core, is a far superior watch! Rolex has nothing close to the El Primero movement! For a few millimeters more of thickness you get a far superior movement. All the other stuff is styling and Zenith is easily almost equivalent in that department...better for remaining true to being the more precise chronograph! I guess these watch dealers like the extra $10K they get over list price for the Daytona, but that just makes me a hell of a lot happier to own a Zenith!
It seems like the reviewer put a premium on the robustness of the Rolex in terms gauging which movement is superior. Did you also come away with that impression?
Whilst Rolex did put in a ton of work n changes n marketing magic... Of which we do have to give Rolex credit... But Ask any watchmaker n they'll tell you One thing...
The dial is determined by the movement. What goes where is already pre-determined once the movement is decided.
One could argue that the Rolex is the better watch, but even with extensive 'improvements' instilled n patents n all...
Whether Daytona owners are really gonna appreciate all that 'tech' is still subjective. Not everyone who buys a Daytona will even actually bother about that.
I'll put it this way...
For the marketing n the bracelet, I'll give one to Rolex.
But since it's false marketing n they always take credit even when it's not theirs.... Nor treat their customers or fans right, I simply cannot concur.
Hence, my next 3 points goes to Zenith, for the movement n for keeping up the great work n still keeping their Watches Available, No Artifical Shortages to push prices up n Hence keeping Prices Right!
So yes, the Zenith is my choice, Not the Rolex, Nor any other Rolexes for the matter.
I just don't believe in 'factory-made-luxury' nonsense.
Getting rid of the tachometer made the dial less busy. Adding the date window is counter to the concept of simplicity but it’s still the more minimalist presentation.
holy angelina jolie, the Zenith clasp. Didn't expect to see that. No wonder they don't show the clasp on their website.
thats why it is 30% cheaper even comparing the retail price, not to mention we cant get the daytona at retail price. but it is already good enough for me
@@SillytanN I have vintage watches with bracelets over 50 years old with simple cheap pressed clasps - and they still do their job and work perfectly. This clasp stuff is overrated.
@@ChangedDays yea just like no one would complain a pressed clasp on a casio. they are not providing the value of the money
The Zenith's dial looks so much nicer to me. The sub dials look amazing, the indexes look better and more uniform. The white is more subtle and nicer shade than that stark copy paper white. The Rolex is better overall and will appreciate but, you have to decide is it "that much" better? You could get the Zenith and a stack of other really nice watches for the price difference.
Is this look not just the el primero that has been made since 1969 with a bezel (used to count 1/10) so how can anyone say it is a homage to the daytona?
Can’t get over the biography printed on the daytona dial
Pity you never mentioned the De Luca Zenith which this new Zenith resembles, but most know nothing about Zenith history.
I agree. Have you ever seen a review of the De Luca?
Zenith all day for me ❤️
I am fortunate to have come into possession of my grandpa’s Zenith El Primero A386. He flew planes and raced cars recreationally. He used his watch to time his flights and he used the tachymeter scale on the race track as well.
I like the look of the Chronomaster sport, but its inability to time things beyond an hour would have made it useless for him and the tachymeter would have been missed.
Maybe I don’t need those things now, but if I’m paying this kind of money, I’d like it to at least be hypothetically useful.
If they created a version did away with the tenth of a second scale, and went back to the tachymeter scale (keeping it on a ceramic bezel) and 12 hour subdial, and included hacking seconds, which the old models lack, I’d certainly buy it to compliment the vintage model.
Don't they have that on their other chronos?
I'm looking at the zenith, but my question is, does that mean the second hand always moves at 1 rotation per 10s?
Loved the video! A friend said get the Zenith, but the width is a show stopper for me. I will probably buy a Speedmaster and wait for a Rolex from an AD.
Im here to get info on the Zenith. I refuse to be a Rolex slave. If I want to buy a watch, I want to be tje customer. Not the other way around like Rolex thinks about the buyer's
If I had to pick one and couldn't sell it, Zenith all day. The rolex does nothing for me. I'm sure I'm going to get the Zenith at one point.
The Daytona might hold its value better but the Zenith is better in like 9/10 ways to me. If they suddenly switched the badge, or people could get over their Rolex obsession, people would be picking that Zenith look and movement over the Rolex the vast majority of the time. The Daytona might win in resale value and “hype”, but I’d take the Zenith over it any day of the week
The way you just smash those watch crystals together lol
great video. Lucky to own chronomaster sport white dial and am curious to know which of the bezel is wider. To anyone who owns both please let me know. I am on the fence that Daytona’s bezel is wider.
I’ve seen the Zenith referred to as a “Daytona homage”, an “Impersonator” and a “nearly identical watch”. Yet, to my eyes, it differs noticeably from the Rolex in almost every detail. The three subdials look completely different in design and layout as does the dial text. The markers are also quite different and the Zenith also has a date. The pushers are totally different as is the crown and the absence of crown guards. Even the case is distinct from the Rolex. Yes, it’s a white dial/black bezel chronograph on a steel bracelet but I for one could easily distinguish one from the other at a distance. So, whilst I don’t doubt for a second that Zenith have made a watch (possibly intentionally) that’s going to appeal to anyone who likes the Daytona aesthetic, to describe it as nearly identical is overstating the case just a bit.
I agree to this as well.. Plus there are many more watches in the same style that could be said the same thing about, its looking like a daytona! For me i´d take the Zenith any way of the week.
The Daytona probably wouldn't exist without Zenith. It was El Primero powered for 20 years (albeit with about half the parts replaced and the bet rate reduced).
i don't think tolerance means what you think it means. tolerance and distance are not synonymous.
The text on the Daytona has always bothered me. Or, on a lot of Rolex's actually... never not been clear you only buy a Rolex to brag. The Zenith wins, no contest. Date, usable chrono, history, WR w/o use of annoying screw-down pushers, exhibition caseback. Overall better engineering/more watch for your money.
I may have heard incorrectly, but I though he said the Zentih movement for only 2 years, but but it was the Daytona movement for 12 years
I'm for the Zenith.
Everyone knows the Daytona wouldn't exist today without Zenith anyway...
Exactly. Rollie fans may argue otherwise but any reputable watchmaker will tell you... The Dial is determined by the movement. 😁
I’m going for the new Tudor BB Chrono. Well...I’m waiting. My AD is getting a couple, soon he thinks, but they’re both spoken for. So hopefully I’m somewhere in line. I’ll probably get the SD 43 first, knowing my luck!
The Zenith does have solid end links.
Both beautiful….tough call for me….but since I couldn’t get my hands on the Rolex new from AD…advantage El Primero…
Ok ok but it’s 11k vs 40k! 100% for the zenith imo!
Both great watches, but the thickness of the Zenith is not good for well fitting business shirts/cuffs.
I don't think 1.5mm is going to make a lot of difference. I have worn some thicker watches (I have a Breitling Crosswind which is thicker than the Zenith) and it makes little to no difference.
@@thethirdman225 100% makes a difference if you wear fitted collar shirts
@@JDDD33 Believe me, I have.
Why not a Jaeger-LeCoultre Chronograph?
I am getting a TH carrera vibe from the Zenith, maybe because of the pushers? The Daytona, however, always felt a little too small diameter-wise on my wrist.
$13,000, pass. I have never understood the aesthetics of the Daytona. For that money it wouldn't make my top 20 list. There are so many watches that are much nicer you could buy for that cash. I guess if your main concern is resale value, the Rolex wins, but other than that, you can keep it. That particular Zenith doesn't do it for me, I'd take the hand-wound version so you can see the movement in all its beauty. I can't help but sort of laugh at the prospect of going on a "waiting list" for any watch, or being asked about my income. The day someone at a watch dealer asks me about my income is they day I laugh in their face and walk out.
El Primero is better but I wouldn't buy either. There are better looking watches
whats 3 watches that you think look the best then??
@@smokingbeetles5793 give 3 examples?
Why do the cased up movement and the uncased movement specs re: COSC/Superlative COSC certification change? As is in, can anyone explain why those two numbers would be different?
COSC is +6/-4 per 24 hours as a bare movement. "Superlative" allegedly is a 24-hour +2/-2 test as a cased watch.
Best,
Tim
Thanks Tim, but why would a movements accuracy change from the bare movement to the cases up version?
@@kolbymartineau3706 Yes it would. These things are extremely sensitive, and casing involves clamping the base plate, adding hands, and running the watch at length. Also, the COSC yes includes identical daily winding, and it's unlikely that an automatic watch will receive *exactly* the same amount of winding each day on the wrist. That has a major impact on how a cased watch keeps time.
Best,
Tim
@@the1916companywatchreviews Thank you! Thats exactly what I didnt understand... even just adding hands would change things... I didnt realize they could even test a movement without them lol
The Zenith every time!
Very good review. ZENITH all day long
Amazing comparison, thank you!
Zenith no question. The heritage is what speaks to me or any collector. Great marketing or horological significance ...I will take .Zenith bar none.
Love the dial on Zenith, but the clasp and the thickness self-explains the finesse of Rolex. But truly do not like the attention that it may draw by wearing a daytona.
Tim, you seriously make the best, most detailed videos about watches, it’s awesome. Thank you 🙏🏻
My only issue with the Zenith is the date at the 4:30 mark. However, it is a beautiful watch - especially with that sapphire case back display.
I do prefer the slimmer profile on the Rolex, but I do not like how they omit sapphire case back displays. I feel It is also a cleaner look without the date.
Ignoring resale value, in my opinion, the Zenith is by far a better buy.
I love the chronomaster sport B-) but the 116500LN will always be my grail Rolex!
I love Zenith but hate this Rolex-inspired piece. The old Zenith El Primero 38 mm for me any day. Especially the pink gold version. Just exquisite.
@HeC S Like how you've shsmed yourself with your unbecoming reply?
Very similar, yeah it has a white face and black bezel. It has far more differences than similarities. Zenith is just a much more interesting and better looking watch for me. Funny how no one has said the black faced one is a copy.
I know I’m 3 years later. But the rose gold zenith really speaks to me lately. The Daytonas are going down in price but the way the grey dealers are starting to act as if they’re ADs. Is just getting laughable 😅.
Rolex has put me off so badly, I wanted a Wimbledon, a Daytona or an Explorer II, now I don’t want to be near that kind, also there’s been shitloads of scams with Rolex in EU, and people are daily getting robbed.
So far I’ve only had one look at the watches I wear and it was a new Tudor bb41 burgundy by potential thief’s.
I’m going for the zenith or JLC next, I’m just done playing games, I’m not even getting an OP by Rolex 😂😂😂 they put me on a list but said it would take years
I'm new to watches, when I heard of Zenith, I thought it would be a budget brand. After looking at prices, I was wrong 😂
Think I maid a mistake with the daytona 🐼 , nah still love it 💋
Thank you for this....
I'm very glad I like the Zenith more, because if I want it, I can get it.
i feel these days, i wanna hate rolex because its torturing to love rolex. you cant have it anyway
@@kittenfan There's nothing wrong with the watch. It's the company's attitude I hate (cut production to create waiting lists and jack up the price).
for 30k in 2021 i would have preferred a JLC and Zenith and Omega chrographs and annual calendars. in 2024 the rolex is down to 15k
Hi Tim
Zenith for me please. Daytona doesn't have a date, and a chronometer that's practically useless in today's standards. At least the Zenith's actually works up to the 0.1 second.
Do you think the zenith we be found at discounted prices as the hype dies off?
No
so based on the comments, buy the Zenith & use the Daytona steel bracelet... and you have the perfect watch
Simple answer to this video: whichever you can actually buy, whichever wins.
don't like the date on Zenith..... also don't be mad if someone asks "is that a Rolex?" or "is that a Daytona?" 😂😂... overall a freakin good watch by Zenith!
Bracelet looks very cheap on the zenith . And I like the zenith .
the overall design of the daytona is unbeatable but i like the case design more on the el primero
Only thing that can be called "Rolex inspired" is the ceramic bezel and clasp. Zenith had similar bracelets in the past, the sub-dials are heritage, as it the case design. Also, Rolex did not pioneer the ceramic bezel on a watch. Lots of other watches have the same look, Rolex fan-boys pick on the Zenith given the intertwined history of the brands. No mention of the crown jewel here even when talking about smoothness, technical prowess or power reserve, the El Primero beats over almost 9,000 times per hour.
Save yourself about 5k and get the Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 38mm Mens Watch 03.2150.400/53.c700. Looks NOTHING like the Daytona, and is definitively an El Primero.
@@BobbyDazzler888 cringe
Great consideration! I knew they had a 38 but I forgot which one
Where is the video on the Daytona being a nice Speedmaster’s homage?
As for the Zenith, they messed up with the bracelet, poorly copying the design. The rest of the watch is outstanding with a better dial design, and more advanced movement.
The only real advantage of the Rolex is the resell value, assuming prices continue to go up. From this perspective it is the king. For the rest it’s not a better watch (and not better than the speedmaster it copies for that matter).
Zenith the superior tool watch, Daytona the superior investment plus bragging rights…
Daytona is also the better watch to make you a target by thieves :-)
I don't really like the Daytona but I like the Chronomaster. If Rolex can't meet the demand for a reasonable price then screw them - Zenith can come in and take some sales. People accuse Zenith of copying Rolex and I guess they have, but I don't see how it's much different than a 90s Rolex Daytona having a Zenith movement in it.
Rolex using Zenith movements was a commercial agreement between the two companies. This is blatant copying of design elements without consultation. It's completely different.
@@stewester There's no obligation to consult with another company when you take design elements from them. That is unless they have taken out design patents, which Rolex haven't for the Daytona. But that comes back to the question - what is a 1990's Daytona? It's half Zenith. But Rolex bought the movement? Still doesn't make the most critical part of the watch any more Rolex. That's Zenith's achievement.
@@earthenjadis8199 I'm not saying it's illegal for Zenith to copy the design, just shameful and very different to an agreement to supply movements.
The fact that Rolex chose the El Primero for the first automatic Daytona shows just what an incredible movement it is, but it doesn't give Zenith free rein to start copying Rolex aesthetic design in the present day.
@@stewester the most popular watch is the superlative daytona, not to el primero daytona. El primero was the great movement but now the 4130 beats it not only by an inch. Zenith fans should just move on instead of trying to take too much credit. Show some appreciation to the great improvement that rolex achieved over the past 2 decades
@@SillytanN no doubt the 4130 is the better movement from a pure technical perspective but it lacks the history and intriguing quirkiness of the 4030 in my opinion. I also prefer the Zenith watches as a whole with their tritium dials, brushed lug tops and subdials which are level with the centre of the dial. I find the 116520 somewhat soulless in comparison. Each to their own though.
There is no comparison here. The Rolex is the original. The Rolex is vastly superior in every way. The Rolex is….a ROLEX. Enough said. Mic Drop….🎤
👍
Zenith looks better. I have both but I rather wear the zenith daily
Wow! Lucky you! I'm still trying to figure out how to buy a Zenith!
Zenith
Hey Tim, I was wondering if the straps that are made for the Daytona would fit on the el primero? I’m talking the likes of the Everest bands curved lugs straps as I’m a big fan of these!
Thanks for an awesome video. Gets one really thinking!
Id like to ask a very subjective question tho. Seeing how you seem to like the Breguet Type XXII 3880 reference - which watch would you pick as a offtime watch? The Zenith we see here or the TypeXXII?
I have a 20ishcm wrist size, so the 44mm of the Breguet dont bother me; rather unsure about the 17.2-17.4mm thickness however..
My pick: The Daytona. Thanks for the comprehensive review.
Tighter tolerance of Rolex bracelet links will pull hair.
1: among the two Ofc go for Rolex because it prints “Rolex”
2: neither of watches is good buy for personal uses at current price point. Rolex is the way to go but there are better looking models at better price points
The Bracelets , both are made by ETA Swiss Made
That Zenith looks pretty good, until you put it next to the Rolex. No contest.
Daytona for me. Also, the 10 seconds per 60 is pretty ridiculous.
I wish I had one
In my opninion. If you can buy just one of them, almost no one would go for the Zenith (supposing both are avaiable at retail price and not to resell ovb)
But you can't, so the discussion becomes interesting
@@asura2545 i wish I had both :D
@@adrianoquesadallinares4358 true. However, it is tempting to sell the Daytona and buy an Overseas (etc.) To create a collection
Nope I'd have the zenith as the daytona too small for me tbh. Plus given the price of daytona I'd go blancpain Air Command lol
How can you say in my opinion and then say no one would. That is a contradictio in terminis.
To me the video is ever so slightly slanted towards Rolex but honesty the Zenith is a much nicer looking watch. There’s no doubt that Zenith has struct a nerve here and is seriously threatening Rolex on multiple fronts which is why these videos are popping up all over the place. The most serious blow is coming from “movement aficionados” who find the Zenith’s movement superior to the Rolex. Just curious, can you use the Zenith’s second hand to move at a normal rate (60 seconds) instead of 10 seconds.
That Daytona really is perfection. I'll never be happy with anything else
Looks like you'll never be happy then.
8:35 THANK GOD you finally wipe that dust off Jesus was that bugging the hell out of me....
How can we say Rolex came first when Zenith helped Rolex?
Excellent question!
Zenith. No contest.
Zenith gets the vote from me. But only the models with 30-minute sub-dials. I'm not even 50 yet and I can't read 60-minute sub-dials! :sad-laugh:
Without any hesitation Zenith.
Unfortunately, the few people who actually notice you are wearing a watch, will think the Rolex is a fake. Until you walk into a watch store, most people could care less whether you are wearing a watch or not. With that in mind, wear the watch that pleases YOU ( and does not cause your wife to seek a divorce attorney )!
@HeC S Give me a dumb Zenith watch any day!