The Le Locle based Maison has always been a leader in the field of chronographs and this Zenith finds one of the 1960s greatest expressions. In 1969 a big step ahead has been made with the launch of the automatic El Primero movement and until then, Zenith housed manually-wound chronograph calibers, in partnership with Martel. Martel Watch Company was specialized in the production of chronograph calibers and had key role in the success of Zenith A27X references, supplying high-quality movements.
Simplicity at its best, this bi-compax chronograph maintains perfect symmetry being sporty and dressy at the same time. The dark grey dial is preserved in excellent condition, showing the original soleil finishing and makes nice contrast with the ‘silk’ silver-white registers. The ‘Reverse Panda’ dial features applied tri-faceted indexes with tritium dots and a beautifully preserved 'Base 1000' tachymeter scale.
Designed to be classic and timeless, the stainless case is round with straight double-faceted lugs. Big pump pushers add a sporty touch while the reduced thickness – only 11,9mm including the domed plexiglass – allows the watch to fit any wrist. This Ref. A271 houses the 146-DP Martel based column-wheel caliber, featuring 14” and two registers. While the ‘D’ stays for two registers, the ‘P’ indicates the chronograph meets chronometer standards – as seen in the Zenith Cairelli, instead featuring a 30 minutes register.
This vintage Zenith offers tremendous value for connoisseurs of steel chronograph wristwatches, not to mention the appealing 'Reverse Panda' dial.
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Condition
This Zenith Ref. A271 Chronograph is offered in very good overall condition. The case is well-preserved with scratches, polished. Case No. is visible on the caseback and the Zenith Star on it is crisp and defined. Caseback shows scratches. The stainless steel crown is signed Zenith and matches the period. The dial remains in excellent condition with minor spots on subregisters and minor fading around applied indexes. The tritium on hands and indexes has aged a brown color. Tritium on chronograph second hand has warn-out. The plexiglass shows scratches. Chronograph function starts, stops and resets correctly.
Manifacturer - Zenith
Year - 1960s
Movement - Zenith 146-DP, Manual winding
Model Name - Zenith Bi-Compax Chronograph
Reference - A271
Material - Stainless steel case
Bracelet/Strap - Generic leather strap
Clasp/Buckle - Generic metal buckle
Dimensions - 37,3mm x 43,8mm
Signed - Dial, Movement, Crown and Caseback
