Zenith

In the canon of watchmaking, there are a handful of movements that are truly iconic – the Valjoux 72, Calibre 321, and of course, the Zenith El Primero. As its very name would imply, the El Primero was ‘the first’. In its case, it was the first automatic chronograph movement.

Highly advanced upon its introduction in January of 1969, the El Primero was a high-beat column wheel chronograph with quick-set date. The introductory reference was none other than the A386 – which is the example we have on offer.

With less than 2,500 A386 models estimated to have been produced between 1969 and 1972, these models are as rare as they are beautiful. Our example here is made incredibly special by its near flawless state of preservation. The watch appears in seemingly in new old stock condition with its box, and also its original strap and buckle in unworn condition. There are barely even signs of handling wear as the dial’s signature three colors appear as vibrant today as they did in 1971 when this example was produced. A true collector's dream, and a piece of watchmaking history as the first automatic chronograph.