Zenith El Primero Prototype

About this reference

The Zenith El Primero 3019 PHC prototype in stainless steel was produced between 1968 and 1969 as a pre-series development piece for the world’s first integrated automatic high-beat chronograph. Collectors value this reference for its historical role as a functional testbed for the 36,000 vph caliber 3019 movement. These prototypes typically feature 38mm cases with distinct dial variations, including "ghost" or "panda" configurations that lack the final production branding or tachymeter scales found on the subsequent A384 or A386 models. Due to their extreme rarity and status as pre-production artifacts, these watches rarely appear on the open market. When they do, secondary market prices typically occupy the high-five-figure to low-six-figure range. A notable 2020 Phillips auction saw a steel prototype with a unique grey dial sell for approximately 250,000 CHF, highlighting the premium placed on documented development pieces.