Today's offering showcases this exceedingly rare original Zenith El Primero watch specially made for the Italian market. It is one of only three examples known to exist of this model, and the only one with this dial design. 

While the El Primero likely needs no introduction, it is one of the finest automatic chronograph wristwatches ever produced.

Its movement in many ways set the standard against which high-end, professional chronographs were judged for decades. Filled with revolutionary new technology, it left a legacy that is still influencing the modern idea of the luxury chronograph today.

It is one of the so-called "Bolognese" watches with a case me by Andreoli Guglielmo, the Italian goldsmith in Bologna, Italy. Only two other examples are currently known to exist - one with black dial and another with white enamel dial. It was believed that those were the only dials the watch was made with. The discovery of this watch, with its never before seen silvered dial with champagne subdials, adds to the knowledge of these special pieces.

The "Bolognese" El Primero's were introduced around 1985 and are composed of a number of different models. None of the models were made in a large quantity.

Made exclusively for the Italian market - since the Italians often led the world in watch fashion - its 18K gold case is pleasingly heavy and distinctive in design with a smooth unnumbered bezel whose form is only adorned by ridges notating the primary hours.

We were fortunate to acquire this special true connoisseur's El Primero in all-original condition. Other than carefully inspecting and testing it, we have left it just as we acquired it.

Its unpolished case back still retains all of its original factory applied satin finish - the entire case is in excellent condition showing only very light wear. Its untouched original dial is perfect mint.

All of the functions are working perfectly - the chronograph resets strongly and the sweep hand resets to an exact zero. It is running true. We have also timed it on a machine that simulates it being worn on the wrist. It is keeping very accurate time. Photos of the inside available upon request.

Included with the purchase is a full-page custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity. If you would like us to service the watch in the future please inquire.

You'll be the only person you know not only who has one, but likely who has ever even seen a picture of one of these special watches.

For further reading, an excellent, informative post on them can be found here.

El Primero Features:

If you're not especially familiar with El-Primeros, here is a little more information about these watches:

* After almost forty years, the El Primero remains unbeaten in its ability to measure short time intervals to one-tenth of a second
* High frequency 36,000 beats per hour balance system, twice the speed of many traditional chronographs and faster than any other chronograph in existence, insures exceptional accuracy
* Full 50 hour power reserve
* 31 jewel version
* Very efficient automatic movement with 360 degree, ball-bearing supported rotor to keep the watch wound on the wrist
* Quick-set date mechanism for more convenient date setting

Manufacturer: Zenith
Country of origin: Switzerland and Italy, made exclusively for the Italian market
Year built: c. late 1980's
Model: Ref. 06.0062.400 "Bolognese" El Primero,
Functions: Chronograph (12-hour timing), Automatic, Quick-Set Date, Subsidiary Seconds
Designed for: Men
Case material: 18K gold
Case markings (inside): CTRF BY ZENITH, .750, BO 50 (Andreoli Guglielmo's case makers number and BO signifying Bologna)
Case condition: Excellent condition showing only very light wear
Dial: Signed Zenith El Primero Chronograph Automatic, silvered with applied 18K gold baton indexes, champagne subsidiary dials for the 12-hour, 30-minute register and constant seconds, 1/5th second increments, date aperture at 4, original, mint condition
Dimensions: 39mm wide (excluding crown), 42mm long lug tip-to-tip
Hands: Original, 18K gold "batons"
Movement type: Cal. 400 El Primero, rhodium-plated, 31 jewels, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic balance, shock absorber, self-compensating fl at balance spring, micrometer regulator
Movement markings: Movado Factories, 31 Jewels, Swiss Made, 400
Jewels: 31 rubies
Band: Leather, fully stitched, padded with unsigned buckle. We also stock lizard and a variety of other straps in various prints, skins, and colors. Please ask us if you're interested.
Crystal type: Sapphire, original, excellent condition
Timing: All of the functions are working perfectly - the chronograph resets strongly and the sweep hand resets to an exact zero. It is running true. We have also timed it on a machine that simulates it being worn on the wrist. It is keeping very accurate time. If you would like us to service the watch in the future please inquire.
Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity
Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all of our watches. If you are in any way unsatisfied with the watch we will fully refund the purchase price anytime within 7 days after the watch has been received. Our goal is to exceed our client's expectations throughout the buying experience.

All watches are packaged carefully and mailed double boxed in specially constructed, reinforced shipping boxes designed for high value items. All watches are sent fully insured with signature required. Most of our domestic shipping is done through FedEx. At times we will also use USPS Express Mail, and we can accommodate most requests for your preferred carrier. International shipments are sent USPS International Express Mail or FedEx.

The purchase price will be the declared value of the merchandise on any required customs forms. The payment of all customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

Also note that water resistance of vintage watches can no longer be guaranteed and is not covered under the watch's warranty. We do not recommend getting a vintage watch wet, even one that was originally designed to be waterproof.

To get an idea of how this watch will look on the wrist, please use the Watch Sizing Guide

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