ZENITH – Pioneering Swiss Watchmaking Since 1865

Zenith, founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot, is one of the first true watch manufactures, bringing all watchmaking disciplines under one roof in Le Locle, Switzerland. Known for its precision and innovation, Zenith set a new standard with its in-house movements and remains respected today for its historic contributions to Swiss horology and high-quality mechanical craftsmanship.

Favre-Jacot's commitment to excellence led to the development of the "Zenith" caliber, which earned the Grand Prix at the 1900 Paris Universal Exhibition. The name "Zenith," referring to the highest point in the sky, symbolizes the brand's pursuit of perfection.

Today, Zenith continues its legacy of innovation, crafting exceptional timepieces that combine traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technology. With over 150 years of horological heritage, Zenith stands as a pillar of Swiss luxury watchmaking.

ZENITH

El Primero Chronograph Watch

Limited Edition of 50 Pieces

Introduced in 1969, the Zenith El Primero was the world’s first fully integrated automatic chronograph with a high-beat movement running at 36,000 vph, allowing precise timing to 1/10th of a second—a breakthrough in watchmaking.

Unlike modular chronographs of its time, El Primero combined all functions into a single, compact movement. During the quartz crisis, production stopped, but watchmaker Charles Vermot secretly saved the plans and tools, making its revival possible in the 1980s.

El Primero later earned even more respect when Rolex used it in the Daytona. Today, it remains a symbol of Zenith’s technical mastery, precision, and heritage.

We are proud to offer this authentic Zenith El Primero chronograph wristwatch, a finely crafted self-winding timepiece that blends timeless style with reliable engineering. This incredibly rare piece is a true limited edition of just 50 pieces; it is powered by an automatic movement and is made in Switzerland. Perfect for collectors or enthusiasts who appreciate quality and history.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Brand: Zenith

Type: Wristwatch

Model / Reference: 18.2045.400/57.C494

Year / Era: -

Gender: Men’s

Country of Manufacture: Switzerland

Dial: Sunburst blue dial with baton markers, luminous hands and dots, small seconds at 9 o’clock, 30-minute counter at 3, 12-hour counter and date window at 6, with a tachymeter scale on the border.

Movement Type: Automatic

Caliber: El Primero Cal. 400

Jewels: 31

Movement Features: Chronograph, sub-second hand, date indicator with quick-set, a 50-hour power reserve and a frequency of 36,000 vph.

CASE/BAND

Material: 18K Rose gold

Case Size: 42mm

Case Shape: Round

Bezel: Fixed smooth

Back: Exhibition

Crown: Push/Pull

Crystal: Sapphire

Water Resistance: 10 ATM / 100 M / 333 feet

Band: Brown leather two-piece strap

ADDITIONAL INFO

Box & Papers: Yes

Other Accessories: Full kit

Extra information: All original double box and papers

Movement:

Case Back Markings:

Measurements (mm):

Zenith

El Primero

Thirty-One Jewels

Cal. 400

Manufacture Le Locle

Swiss Made

El Primero

Limited Edition

100M

18.2045.400

Au 750

Case Diameter 42

Case Diameter w/Crown 46

Case Lug to Lug 49.5

Case Thickness 13

Lug Width 21

Band Width 21

We appreciate you checking out our listing! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, offers, or just to talk watches — we love what we do and enjoy connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience. We also warmly invite you to visit our physical shop and explore the collection in person.

Thank you for your business—we truly appreciate your support and look forward to serving you again in the future!

WA-5483

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