![]() And the balance had a higher frequency than was usual in this era. The power reserve exceeded 48 hours, which was somewhat longer than other contemporary movements. This contributed to the caliber’s highly precise rate. A dry lubricant based on molybdenum sulfate was used for the first time. It measured 13.5 lignes in diameter and was a mere 6.5 mm tall. This movement’s technological victory march was almost impossible to stop. 10, 1969, calling its new watch the “El Primero” (meaning “the first”). But Zenith and its partner Movado had managed to publicly announce the development of an automatic chronograph movement and show a working prototype at a press conference in Geneva on Jan. In Japan, Seiko was working on its own automatic chronograph movement, Caliber 6139, which was introduced to the Japanese market in May 1969. A leading role was played by Breitling, which collaborated with Heuer-Leonidas, Hamilton/Büren and Dubois Dépraz to develop a micro-rotor caliber that was unveiled simultaneously in Geneva, New York, Hong Kong, and Beirut in March 1969. In Switzerland, toward the end of the 1960s, two coalitions of watch manufacturers were hard at work developing the world’s first automatic chronograph movement. But it’s much less common for a watch movement to gain fame and, after more than 50 years, achieve legendary status. It’s not uncommon for a watch to become a classic. In this historical feature from the WatchTime archives, contributor Thomas Gronenthal takes a look at its development. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address.Zenith’s El Primero automatic chronograph caliber - unveiled to the world just over 50 years ago, in 1969 - is regarded as one of the world’s best and most accurate movements. Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. The watch is from 2003.Īvailable for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia The movement is running strong with the chronograph resetting to zero. The bracelet shows some wear from normal use, but is in overall excellent condition, around 8/10. The case is in fantastic condition, showing barely any wear, around 9/10. This watch was purchased from Harrod's and comes with a box and papers including an outer box, an inner box, and a warranty card. I love the opening in the dial and find myself staring at it and not caring what time it is! The bracelet on this watch is really comfortable and reminds me of the 90's style Omega Speedmaster bracelets, though the contrasting matte/brushed finishing on this one stands out more. On the wrist, I would say this watch wears true to its 40mm sizing. The movement features a 50-hour power reserve and an intricate column-wheel mechanism, exemplifying Zenith's horological prowess. With 39 jewels, it beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), enabling 1/10th of a second precision. The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 03.0240.4021 is powered by the legendary El Primero 4021 caliber, a high-frequency automatic chronograph movement. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch features a transparent case back, providing another view of the movement. The watch includes a chronograph function with a central seconds hand, a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, and a power reserve indicator between 5 and 7 o'clock. The 40mm stainless steel case houses the El Primero Caliber 4021, a self-winding movement with a 50-hour power reserve. The Open Heart design in reference 03.0240.4021 features a cut-out on the dial, revealing the inner workings of the movement and allowing the wearer to admire the intricate mechanics. The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 03.0240.4021, produced from the late 1990s to early 2000s, embodies the El Primero legacy of automatic chronograph excellence. The Chronomaster line showcases El Primero's horological legacy, featuring refined designs and innovative updates while preserving its heritage. Boasting high-frequency precision and a column-wheel mechanism, it has become iconic. The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero traces its roots to 1969 when Zenith introduced the El Primero, the world's first integrated automatic chronograph movement. ![]() SOLD OUT: Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 03.0240.4021 40MM Open Chronograph White Steel Box and Papers 2003 WHY THIS WATCH
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