Thinking about a Zenith El Primero [38mm]

[t60]

This thing is a beauty. Someone talk me out of it!
https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/th...onomaster-38mm

Amazing history behind this piece. The things that are killing me are:
* Unless I get a discount, for the MSRP it's an amazing watch, but Zenith depreciates heavily (so I'd likely buy used).
* Only 2 year warranty (I'm so spoiled with my Rolexes..)
* I'd probably have to find a local watchmaker as the US service center does all LVMH watches and people don't seem too happy..
* It's not a Rolex

It seems like I can pick one up for 4-5k, and if I wait around enough sub-4k. I haven't tried it on yet, but will probably head in tomorrow! I only heard about this watch two days ago and it's been on my mind since..

[denmanproject]

No help here, its a beauty!

[ap1]

Approved

[GoingPlaces]

Nothing but respect for the ElPrimero. It’s a legend and has secured a place in watchmaking history.


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[Jmbarrack]

Anyone have insight into the reliability of their movements and service intervals? I am also interested in an EP.

[MichaelFlash]

Originally Posted by Jmbarrack

Anyone have insight into the reliability of their movements and service intervals? I am also interested in an EP.

Had Zenith Chronomaster in rose gold years ago. Kept it for at least 6-7 years. Never had any issues with the El Primero movement, didn't even service the watch. I still miss it. Beautiful dial. Used it as part of a trade for AP Diver that I got rid of a few months later...oh well...

[Jmbarrack]

Originally Posted by MichaelFlash

Had Zenith Chronomaster in rose gold years ago. Kept it for at least 6-7 years. Never had any issues with the El Primero movement, didn't even service the watch. I still miss it. Beautiful dial. Used it as part of a trade for AP Diver that I got rid of a few months later...oh well...

Thanks for the info.

That's what I have coming. But the steal version 401z movement from 2000 silver dial. Fell in love as soon as I saw it.

It was just serviced in April and is still under warranty until April 2020. Ideally, it should be good for another 5+ years I'm hoping.

[stockae92]

They are awesome. I would get one over a Speedy Pro :)

[Fabrice M]

O especially like this one, sorry no help from me.

[GoingPlaces]

Originally Posted by stockae92

They are awesome. I would get one over a Speedy Pro :)

100% in a minute.

[JR16]

Originally Posted by stockae92

They are awesome. I would get one over a Speedy Pro :)

I’ve owned both (though slightly diff dial than OP’s pic, but 38mm).... kept the speedy and traded the zenith . Case proportions (a little tall relative to diameter , pronounced bc of the lugs) and dial legibility just kept me from bonding with it . Speedy Pro, for me, was just more exciting and cooler, and I love changing up the look by changing straps. With that said, it’s obviously a great watch with a classic movement and I at one time liked it enough to buy new .... so if it feels right to OP, go for it !


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[Cabaiguan]

Not a big fan of the 4:30 date window but other than that a very nice piece.


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[Commonproject]

I honestly like the design better than the Daytona, but think the watch is very thick (13.9mm or something?)

[Alex_TA]

I love my Zenith but the reliability is pretty low. It has a bit habit to visit Switzerland without me (did it twice in 3 years).

Looks good though.

[htc8p]

i have a zenith le striking 10th never needed servicing and keeping perfect time.

the hi beat movement makes it super accurate not to mention it looks awesome

[Brovsko]

I love the El Primero and the fact that these can be had for close to 50% off of retail is crazy. They are serially underappreciated watches. I had my eye on the 38mm 1969 model as well but ultimately decided that the dial was too busy with the Daytona hands, applied indices, date window, and the star on the chronograph seconds hands. The original A386 dial was more balanced in my opinion. Ultimately, I ended up picking up a Heritage 146 model, which looks better to me.

[t60]

Went to go try on the watch today, and it fits wonderfully. They didn't have the grey/blue dial to compare to, but I'm torn. It's a beautiful watch, but I could not unsee the date:


The "13" is pretty off-center. They had another one I looked at that was set to "31" which was perfect, but this one was definitely off..

Sigh, still thinking about it assuming I can get one with a perfect datewheel.