Introduction
Arguably one of the most famous chronograph makers in all of horology, Zenith is best-known for their El Primero automatic chronograph movement. From its status as one of the first automatic chronograph movements ever made (depending on who you ask) and the base movement to feature within the second-generation Rolex Daytona, the El Primero is certainly a modern-day icon. Launched in 1969, its incredible hi-beat rate, amazing accuracy and technical prowess ensured that any watch it was inside was one of the best chronographs money could buy. One of those watches was Zenith's own A3817, the watch that we have here. Debuting in 1971 and with only 1000 pieces produced, the A3817 crossed the lines between two of Zenith’s other iconic El Primero powered models, the sportier A384 and the classier A386, with it donning one of the model’s cases and the other’s dial. Featuring the A384’s sportier stainless-steel tonneau-shaped case with sharp polished bevels, a thin faceted bezel and pump-style pushers, the A3817 was immediately distinctive from other watchmaker’s timepieces during that period, while still fitting in with the aesthetics of the time. Featuring the A386’s classier dial, the A3817 sports a beautiful silver dial with three overlapping multi-colored subdials; navy, black and light grey. With its intriguing blend of colors making its way onto the A3817’s hands, inscriptions and applied indices, the A3817 is immediately distinctive on the outside, just like it is on the inside – a fitting tribute to its status as an exceedingly rare timepiece that collectors cherish.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Zenith
Dimensions
37mm
Model
El Primero
Movement
Zenith El Primero
Reference
A3817
Bracelet
Suede strap
Year
1971
Condition
Excellent/ Near Mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Probably one of the most distinctive uses of color in watchmaking, the A3817 features the A386's silver dial with its multi-colored overlapping subdials - an immediately recognizable visual trait that reveals exactly what iconic timepiece this is. Furthermore, this example's aged creamy yellow luminescent makes its dial all the more visually appealing as its blend of yellows, reds, blues, grays and blacks all occupy the dial at once.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring the A384's tonneau-shaped stainless steel 37mm case, the A3817 displays a thick bevel across its lug hoods and bezel, which is where its display and sapphire crystal sit on top of.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent to near-mint condition. Case exhibits sharp edges and retains its original satin polished surfaces. There is superficial wear on the case, and light crazing along some of the edges of the crystal. The dial is in excellent condition and is eye clean.
Our Perspective
With only 1000 pieces produced and featuring three of Zenith's most iconic elements, the A384's case, the A386's dial, and their El Primero movement, it is no wonder why so many collectors cherish the A3817 as much as they do.
Sam Hines
Managing Director
