The history of this Zenith Grande Class El Primero
The Manufacture from Le Locle made world watchmaking history by presenting the first integrated automatic chronograph movement in 1969. This mechanical feat beat at the impressive rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour and was appropriately named El Primero. However, this brilliant invention was almost wiped out by the quartz crisis in 1975. It was only thanks to the courageous rebellion of watchmaker Charles Vermot, who hid the presses and assembly plans in the attic of the factory, that this legendary movement survived. The Zenith Grande Class El Primero reference 03.0520.400 is a noble embodiment of this formidable heritage. It combines the assertive elegance of a city watch with the radical performance of a sports timing instrument. This majestic piece is a vibrant tribute to Swiss precision and a reminder of why this mechanism has equipped the industry's greatest icons.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Grande Class El Primero
The stainless steel case has a statutory diameter of 44 mm. The horns are deeply brushed, contrasting elegantly with the smooth bezel featuring a brilliant mirror polish. Beneath the sapphire crystal is a sumptuous silver dial enhanced by a sunray finish. This clear face is structured by raised Arabic numerals and a date window positioned at 4 o'clock. The whole is enlivened by bright red accents on the tachymeter scale and the central second hand. The superb self-winding Calibre 400 Z can be admired through the sapphire crystal caseback. This legendary chronometer-certified movement has a power reserve of 50 hours and 31 jewels. To complete the aesthetic effect, the watch is fitted with a black alligator leather strap, reference 73.C643, with red stitching. The clasp is a robust steel folding clasp.
Why this Zenith watch
Acquiring such a chronograph represents a milestone for any lover of fine mechanics. This historic engine is renowned for its absolute reliability and powered the most illustrious competing watches during the 1990s. This configuration captivates with its bold balance. The silver dial offers a surgical reading while allowing itself a touch of eccentricity with its incandescent accents. This imposing format is no longer available in the catalogue, which considerably enhances its appeal to enthusiasts. It offers the rare privilege of owning a piece of history within a contemporary suit of armour.
Delivered contents and condition
This chronograph comes with its varnished wooden case and overbox. The set includes its chronometric certification document and international warranty card stamped in March 2011. The timepiece has recently been professionally repolished. It is in remarkable cosmetic and mechanical condition, ready to begin a new chapter on the wrist of its future purchaser.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the absolute authenticity of this timepiece with a 24-month guarantee. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As Switzerland's leading second-hand retailer with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Very good condition - watch already worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and bracelet in excellent condition overall.
