Zenith El Primero A386

Ref. A386A very fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with date, tachymeter scale, Gay Frères bracelet, guarantee, presentation box, and hang tag.

Manufacturer: Zenith Year: 1969 Reference No: A386 Case No: 923D151 Model Name: El Primero Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 3019PHC, 31 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Zenith Gay Frères stainless steel ladder bracelet, end links stamped ZJ, max. length 210mm Clasp/Buckle: Zenith stainless steel deployant buckle, stamped 4.71 Dimensions: 37.5mm diameter Accessories: Accompanied by original Zenith presentation boxes, guarantee and hang tag.Zenith’s El Primero (the first) was one of the first wristwatches to feature an automatic chronograph movement. The manufacturer not only wanted to create a high frequency precision wristwatch, but also sought to advance the state-of-the-art of horology with a fully integrated, selfwinding chronograph caliber. Renowned for its quality, the Zenith caliber 3019PHC is a watchmaking icon, and was the basis for Rolex’s first selfwinding chronograph, the Daytona reference 16520 introduced in 1988. With the El Primero, Zenith created a new aesthetic with a dial that featured a combination of colors with subsidiary dials in blue, light grey and anthracite. The hour and minute hands were in white enamel with black tips, while the chronograph hand was in red enamel. This created a modern and colorful new look for sports watches, and a move away from the more subdued aesthetics of the 1940s and 50s. The present classic El Primero A386 is exceptional for its remarkable condition and completeness. Well preserved and hardly worn, it is totally original and fitted with its uniquely styled Gay Frères ladder bracelet. Complete with its original box, papers, and hang tag, the case remains unpolished as is evident from the factory finish on the lugs and the crispness of the bevels, edges, and caseback engravings. The movement is signed “Zenith 3019PHC”, and “Swiss Made B”, found on early examples of the reference. A rare opportunity for the collector, it is a ‘time capsule’ watch that is sure to impress.