In 1969, Zenith released a movement that was not only one of the first automatic chronographs but also boasted a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations/hour for a chronometer-certified accuracy of 1/10th of a second. It was the most precise high-beat chronograph then – and continues to rank today as the most precise series-made chronograph.
The Swiss manufacture celebrates the revolutionary accomplishment’s golden anniversary with a limited edition box set that looks back on El Primero’s evolution in the last half century.
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El Primero A386 Revival
Using laser-scanning technology on a museum piece, Zenith has reproduced an exact copy of the original El Primero watch, from the 38mm steel case and the tri-colour counters to the shape of the lugs and mushroom pushers. The date aperture appears between ‘4’ and ‘5’, just like the original.
The difference is the calibre, which is the current version of the El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement. Like its predecessor, it beats at 36,000vph, delivers a 1/10th of a second precision as well as a power reserve of 50 hours. Unlike the original with its closed caseback, however, the watch comes with a transparent caseback for a view of the movement.
