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Lot #2711

Zenith El Primero A386 Phillips Limited Edition

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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 A386, which inspired the watch that we have here. Featuring a stainless-steel case with sharp polished bevels, a thin bezel and pump-style pushers, the A386 fit right in with the aesthetics of its time, while its mechanics were at the very forefront of horology and mechanics. Indeed, to let others know of its incredible movement, the A386 features a tell-tale hint at just what watch it is, its dial. Featuring a silver dial with three overlapping subdials, the A386 is immediately distinctive on the outside, just like it is on the inside – a fitting tribute to its status as a trailblazing timepiece indeed. Offered here, we have a Phillips limited edition variant of the A386 that features a 38mm case, with the same three overlapping subdials, but instead of the original’s navy, grey and black, it features three different shades of brown. Limited to just 49 examples, this is a modern take on Zenith’s most iconic timepiece that will certainly make a wonderful addition to any collection.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Box and Papers

Est. value range

$7,000 – $10,000

The Details

Brand

Zenith

Dimensions

38mm x 12.6mm

Model

A386 Phillips Limited Edition

Movement

Automatic cal. El Primero 400

Reference

03.P386.400/07.C840

Bracelet

Stainless steel ladder bracelet

Year

2020

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch, box, papers, hang tags and accessories

Dial Color

Silver

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Inspired by the original A386's tri-color subdials, this Phillips-designed modern timepiece features three shades of brown across its trifecta of chronograph subdials atop its silver dial.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Retaining a close link to the original, this modern A386 features the El Primero's iconic ladder bracelet whereby its center links don't spane the distance from one link to the next, giving it a completely unique look and feel.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
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 near-mint overall condition. Some signs of wear, including a small mark on the inner edge of the top left lug, likely caused by strap/bracelet changing. Case surface has other fine marks commensurate with careful wear. Minor marks on bracelet as well, visible on links and clasp. Bracelet is sized for the previous owner, but the removed links are included.

Our Perspective

Designed not as a modern interpretation of the A386, but as what a designer might have created back in 1969 when the model was launched, this Phillips Edition of the A386 features a unique vintage look and feel that so many modern timepieces fail to attain.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder