Zenith El Primero Chronomaster

Few chronographs have a history as significant as the Zenith El Primero. Introduced in 1969, it competed against the Heuer, Breitling, Hamilton-Büren and Dubois-Depraz to become one of the first automatic chronograph movements. More than five decades later, the El Primero remains one of Zenith’s defining movements and an iconic chronograph design.

This example is the Chronomaster reference 03.2040.400, with its silver dial featuring the instantly recognisable tri-colour sub-dials, as seen on the original 1969 watch. A Tachymeter on the outer edge of the dial gives a nod to the technical capabilities of the watch, while a discreet date window at 6 o’clock keeps the dial balanced.

The 42mm steel case had a presence on the wrist, yet feels comfortable to wear, and a combination of brushed and polished surfaces give a sporty yet refined aesthetic. A slim bezel allows the wearer to fully appreciate the dial, and is also a reminder of those earlier vintage pieces.

Through an exhibition case back you can view Zenith’s El Primero 400B automatic chronograph movement. Operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, the high-beat calibre provides a 50-hour power reserve and features a column-wheel chronograph. The movement is a modern development of the original El Primero calibre and remains one of the most recognisable automatic chronograph movements in watchmaking.

Fitted to the watch is an attractive dark brown Zenith alligator strap and steel folding buckle, and also supplied is a generic grey leather strap for a more relaxed look.

We are pleased to present this 2020 watch in excellent condition, showing very little signs of wear. It comes as a full set, supplied with its original presentation box featuring a travel case, and accompanying paperwork.

A modern classic with a genuinely important movement at its heart, the El Primero Chronomaster combines Zenith’s distinctive 1969 design with the practicality of a contemporary automatic chronograph.

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