I'm interested in the vintage version of this... This watch has such great proportions and unlike some of the Zeniths the case will not be so overwhelming on my wrist. (I commented on a fellow forum member who posted showing one, now can't find the thread) What model is this...and I know nothing about Zeniths, am I swimming out into the deep end too soon? From what I have read the El Primiro Movement is a reliable and robust movement. Any insight into this incredible watch would be greatly appreciated!
You're talking about an A 386, probably the most coveted vintage Zenith reference. Just search "A 386" on this forum and you'll be inundated with info. Here's mine:
Thank you and of course I would be interested in the most coveted Zenith reference. And by "most coveted" I'm sure this is the case as well
Probably somewhere between $5k and $7k for a decent example... unless you're as gutsy as Gavin or as quick, astute and lucky as Veritas99. The problem is finding a decent example before the next guy does.
You guys are killing me. Thanks for the wrist shot Gavin, it gives me some perspective on size. Lou yours is in incredible shape
Beautiful pics! Lou's picture of that 'White On Fume' dial from earlier this year got me thinking about getting one, and like Hijak, now I suddenly want one too...
There's something about the aesthetics of the A386 that gets me, that dial is beutiful, and of course that movement We do have similar taste in watches, don't we...
I'm really liking that dark brown alligator on LouS's what a great look for this watch! EDIT: I've already stolen a copy of his picture, hope he doesn't mind...
That looks like a nice specimen Citizenrich. Have you sent the case number and bracelet details to LouS for his database?
it is virtually impossible to put a strap on this watch that doesn't work well. Enjoy it! Happy Ebay story on that one. It was a late night find on a quick Ebay check between getting in from a boozy dinner and hitting the sack. A Miami dealer in designer handbags posted it just minutes before as Buy-It-Now for a pittance - $1400. Sobered up very fast checking the pics before hitting "Buy." The guy contacted me a week later offering me a Bvlgari. I never did have the heart to tell him what he'd sold me.
Nice score! That hurts a little after my research over the last two days...knowing this will cost me 6k+ if I'm lucky. Really I'd be happy to pay for an example as good as yours.
It was really a perfect storm of vigilance + luck + a little booze which enabled me to take the chance - the pics were really poor. And if it makes you feel any better, the list of purchases I missed because I hesitated is much, much longer. Universal Geneve 'Big Eye,' Eberhardt Contodat, Universal Geneve Film-Compax (now owned by Woodwrkr I believe) just to name a few. Anyway, maybe your ignoramus handbag seller is just around the corner....
A386s are more common in the market than some of the other steel references so I guess it will just be a matter of time. Good luck!
I'm looking at this and somewhat confused as it is labeled...ZENITH El Primero Vintage 1969 Mens Watch 03.1969.469/01.C490 ... But looks to be relatively new watch based on the display back... It is labeled Vintage 1969 and the dial looks almost identical to the A386 dial, can someone please explain. EDIT: This must be some type of special edition commemorative watch, but labeled very ambiguously.
