Zenith El Primero

About this reference

The Zenith El Primero A386 was produced between 1969 and approximately 1971, with an estimated total production of 2,500 units. Collectors prioritize this reference as the original housing for the Calibre 3019 PHC, one of the first integrated automatic chronograph movements operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour. The 38mm stainless steel case features a tri-color dial with overlapping sub-dials in silver, anthracite, and blue, a design distinct to this initial release. On the secondary market, prices typically range from $15,000 to over $25,000 depending on the presence of the original "ladder" bracelet manufactured by Gay Frères and the condition of the tritium lume. A notable production detail is the "Mk 1" dial variant, which lacks the "36000 VpH" text found on later iterations. In 2019, a unique platinum version created for Phillips auction house sold for 250,000 CHF, though steel examples remain the standard for vintage collectors.