When discussing the first generation of Zenith's legendary El Primero automatic chronograph series from the late 60s to early 70s, most models fall into one of two camps. Many of these early El Primero iterations either have a compact, angular "tonneau" case, like the A384 and A385 models, or a more traditional round case with instantly recognizable three-color chronograph subdials, as seen in the A386 series.
Only one model from this period, the El Primero A3817, ever featured both a "tonneau" case and a three-color dial, and these watches were produced in a limited run of just 1,000 pieces during a brief period in 1971. Needless to say, these rare examples are highly coveted among Zenith enthusiasts, and for its latest release, the brand has created a stunningly accurate revival of this elusive vintage model. The new exclusive Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 is a resurrection of one of the most intriguing transitional models in the El Primero line, as well as a collection of greatest hits from classic El Primero designs.
Like the current A385 models, the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 uses the exact case dimensions of the original 1969 El Primero series. Far from the large modern reinterpretations typical of most models, this stainless steel case is very compact at 37mm. Despite its small size, this case should sit confidently on the wrist thanks to its bold planar shape, piston pushers, and a mix of brushed and polished surfaces.
As in the original 1971 A3817 model, it features a domed crystal, but Zenith uses modern-quality sapphire crystal. Similarly, at the back, the El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 includes a sapphire display added to the vintage case design. However, one element of the case that steadfastly remains in the 70s style is the water resistance. Zenith rates the El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 at a modest 50 meters.
The dial of the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 is undoubtedly the design's centerpiece, combining many of Zenith's most collector-beloved visual cues. The lacquered white surface of the main dial is encircled and visually compacted by a black outer scale featuring both a traditional tachymeter and a pulsometer scale, which is a relative rarity in the El Primero line.
The El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 also revives the "shark tooth" seconds scale used in the El Primero A3818 "Cover Girl" model, with a triangular pattern for 1/10 second markings, which aids in legibility while adding a distinctive flair to the outer dial. Of course, the overlapping white, neutral gray, and deep blue chronograph subdials are the stars of the show, adding nuances of color and texture to the design through azurage finishing. The use of khaki-colored lume for the striped hands and beveled applied indices adds a warm contrast to the cooler tones of the subdials, while the soft color palette is invigorated by the red chronograph seconds hand.
Other classic El Primero touches are also present here, including a cutout on the seconds scale to accommodate the date window at 4:30. Overall, the collection of rare and coveted El Primero elements on the dial of the El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 avoids feeling cluttered or overloaded, instead appearing detailed and pleasingly dynamic in early images.
Zenith equips the El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 with the in-house El Primero 400 automatic chronograph movement. The El Primero 400 is a modern descendant of the original movement used in the 1971 A3817 model, and boasts a respectable 50-hour power reserve at El Primero's signature 36,000 beats per hour frequency, as well as a column wheel actuation system. To complete the El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 package, the brand offers a choice of two bracelet options.
The stainless steel ladder bracelet is likely the more striking of the two options, conveying the distinctive Gay Frères design used in early El Primero models, with modern build quality. The honey brown calf leather strap is a subtler option, maintaining the overall look's simplicity and adding another element of visual warmth to the images.
Reviving one of the rarest and most sought-after vintage models, combining many of the most attractive visual elements for collectors, the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 offers a stunning glimpse into the early El Primero line that is sure to deeply excite Zenith fans.
Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival A3817 is available now exclusively in Zenith boutiques and on the brand's e-commerce site for 8,400 USD for the bracelet model. More information can be found on the brand's website.