Zenith El Primero De Luca Chronograph - Mint (Ref. 02.2310.400), 1990s

Dealer description — Huntington Company

History and Significance The De Luca sits in a very specific pocket of Zenith history. It is essentially the brand’s answer to the rise of steel sport chronographs in the late 80s and 90s, combining the El Primero movement with a more tool-oriented case and rotating bezel. Unlike the dressier El Primero references, the De Luca leans fully into the sport category. You get a unidirectional dive-style bezel, screw-down pushers, and a more robust case design, but it still carries the high-frequency El Primero caliber inside. That combination is what makes these interesting. It is not just a diver or just a chronograph. It is both, and it actually works as both. The white dial with black subdials is one of the stronger configurations. It keeps the layout legible while giving it that classic contrast that works well with the aged lume plots. Compared to later Zenith sports models, the De Luca still feels very much tied to traditional watchmaking, just pushed into a more casual direction. Writer’s Thoughts There’s something undeniably special about the De Luca, a chronograph that feels both familiar and distinct. The white panda dials were also produced in far fewer numbers than the all black. The proportions are ideal, the dial execution crisp, and the character unmistakably Zenith. The even patina on the hour markers and the condition are hard to find. It’s easily one of the best ways to experience a true El Primero without stepping into the five or six-figure territory of other brands. Our Promise Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity. Specifications Brand: Zenith Model: El Primero De Luca Chronograph (Ref. 02.2310.400) Year: circa 1990s Case Material: Stainless steel Case Size: Approx. 40mm Bezel: Black rotating bezel Dial: White dial with black subdials and tritium lume plots Movement: Automatic Zenith El Primero chronograph caliber Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet Buckle/Clasp: Zenith folding clasp Contents: Watch and box Condition Case: Case shows light wear consistent with use. The unpolished case retains a strong overall shape. Dial: Dial is clean, and lume plots show patina consistent with age. Hands: Hands are correct with matching lume tone. Crystal: Crystal shows no surface wear. Strap/Bracelet: Bracelet is in good condition with light wear and no stretch.