Zenith El Primero Automatic Chronograph 18K YG (Ref. G383) 'Poker Chip', 1970s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

When Zenith introduced the 3019PHC El Primero on January 10th, 1969, they beat out heavyweights like Seiko, Breitling, Heuer, Hamilton and others in the race to build the first automatic chronograph. The El Primero movement would go on to not only be Zenith's, well, zenith, but also the beating heart behind another legendary watch – the first self-winding Rolex Daytona (otherwise known as the "Zenith Daytona"). Rolex used a modified version of El Primero until the brand released its own in-house automatic chronograph movement in the year 2000. These Zenith ref. G383 were so remarkable, that they've even been reintroduced for the modern era – though, as lovely as the new ones are, they're no substitute for the original, which features the iconic cal. 3019PHC El Primero movement. Legacy aside, this model from the '70s is just about as eye-catching as you can get. Featuring an 18k gold stepped case with incredibly unique lugs, plus an amazing 3-tone "poker chip" dial that feels like it's racing even when it's standing still, there's nothing "sleeper" about this watch. SPECS Stock # ZEPG383PC Brand Zenith Style El Primero Automatic Chronograph Model G383 Serial 92XXXXX Size Men's Material 18K Yellow Gold Dial White / Black / Gold 'Poker Chip' Millimeters 39.5 Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap CASE & BRACELET The incredible 18k yellow gold case is believed to remain in unpolished condition with the original angles and case chamfers fully present, showing only gentle signs of previous use. The case retains its original signed crown and pump pushers. The case back is clean and features minor signs of wear. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The "poker chip" dial has a charming '70s aesthetic and is in remarkable condition, showing virtually no signs of age or wear. The dial is split into four gold "quadrants", three of which feature the sub-dials, with the fourth showcasing the Zenith brand and model lockup – all of which are fully legible with zero signs of age. The tritium in the hour markers has aged to a dark cream patina and show no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hour and minute hands feature a slightly lighter patina but still complement the dial well, under UV light inspection the chronograph hand features a pin-dot of missing lume and is stable. The date wheel at 4:30 is also in perfect condition with legible, dark numerals throughout. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.