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Lot #1952

Zenith El Primero Striking 10th Chronograph 03.2041.4052

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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. Offered here we have the Zenith El Primero Striking 10th from 2010 that was launched as a limited edition collection of 1969 pieces. Using the Zneith Chronomaster’s case and A386 dial design, it features a wonderful blend of old styling and modern mechanics. Offered in stainless steel, its case measures 42mm in diameter and 13mm thick and it boasts an exhibition caseback that provides a view of the automatic El Primero cal. 4052B that beats inside. As with every El Primero movement, and as its name suggests, the Striking 10th that we have here is accurate within a tenth of a second, but what makes this model special is that its dial includes a 10-second chapter ring so that when the chronograph has been stopped the exact second can be read as accurately as possible. Featuring a stainless-steel case with sharp polished bevels, a thin bezel and pump-style pushers and a silver dial with three overlapping multi-colored subdials; navy, black and light grey, the El Primero Striking 10th is a wonderful styled timepiece that stands as a wonderful addition to the El Primero collection indeed.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$4,000 – $6,000

The Details

Brand

Zenith

Dimensions

42mm

Model

El Primero Striking 10th

Movement

Automatic El Primero cal. 4052B

Reference

03.2041.4052

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

2010

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Silver

THE DIAL

Silver and boasting the El Primero's signature trio of navy, black and light grey subdials the Striking 10th's dial appears no different from a plethora of other El Primero references that we have seen before, but its 10-second chapter ring allows its chronograph hand to be read within a 10th of a second with total ease.

THE CONSTRUCTION

Known as the Chronomaster case in recent years, the Striking 10th features a boxy sapphire crystal and thick bevels that delineate between the polished and brushed finishes that can be found across its surfaces.

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 excellent overall condition. Case has some superficial scratches and wear, predominately on the polished surfaces. Dial is near-mint and shows no signs of damage.

Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.

Our Perspective

An iconic watch that every watch lover holds dear, the Striking 10th lives up to the El Primero's capable mechanics through its unique 10-second dial.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder