The interest in this vintage Zenith El Primero reference A384 has skyrocketed since the El Primero’s 50th Anniversary was released in 2019.

In partnership with Movado, Zenith designed the El Primero movement for 7 years and 1969 was the year of introduction of the first El Primero automatic chronograph caliber.

Unlike the Zenith Ref. A386, the two references A384 and A385 were offered – literally - with a cutting-edge design. The multi-faceted stainless steel case represents a glimpse of evolution in the 1970s in terms of geometrical case shapes, a net detachment from the more traditional past. Adding another element of interest, the present watch is offered with the rare Gay Frerés stainless steel ladder bracelet; something that unless you try it you just don’t understand how much sits comfortable on the wrist.

Furthermore, this vintage Zenith Chronograph comes with the unmistakeable white Panda dial configuration with three black subregisters. The dial has aged a cream color that matches perfectly the tritium on the indexes, nicely aged as well.

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Condition
The watch is offered in great overall condition. The stainless steel case is well-preserved with scratches, as well as the 4 69 Gay Frerés ladder bracelet. The bracelet comes with ZK and ZKM endlinks, equal in shape. The inverted star crown is signed Zenith. The dial has developed a creamy patina and the subregister at 9 o’clock shows circulare scratches. Original tritium has aged on indexes and main hands, while red chronograph hand may have been relumed. Plexi shows scratches.

Manifacturer - Zenith
Year - 1960s

Movement - Zenith El Primero, Automatic winding
Model Name - El Primero Chronograph
Reference - A384
Material - Stainless Steel case
Bracelet/Strap - Gay Frerés 4 69 stainless steel ladder bracelet
Clasp/Buckle - Gay Frerés 4 69 stainless steel deployant clasp
Dimensions - 37mm x 41,8mm
Signed - Dial, Movement, Caseback, Crown and Bracelet