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Considering buying my first Zenith watch

  1. Strangedream Nov 6, 2019

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    Hi everyone!
    I have my heart and eyes set on this gorgeous 2002 Class El Primer 01.0501.400. I absolutely love the design of this watch, the dial looks retro in the best way possible with its bold lumen numerals and yet the case gives a hint of modernity. This model definitely has a sporty vibe to it but I can still see myself wearing it at the office with a business casual, semi-formal outfit. Anyways, seller quoted me $2,050 and I was wondering if that was fair for what I'm getting:
    - watch (obviously), few micro-scuffs on the case, tiny flaw on the 12 o'clock lumen, otherwise A+
    - box in 6/10 condition
    - aftermarket deployment leather band
    - a lighter bank account
    What I don't get:
    - watch was last serviced more than three years ago
    - No papers, but extract from registers from Zenith
    - original band
    I attached some pictures, what do you guys think? Should I take it or leave it?
    Any other tips are also welcome. Thanks!
     
    zenith_class_el_primero_010501400_watch_on_leather_strap_1569920082_006eb495.jpg zenith_class_el_primero_010501400_watch_on_leather_strap_1569920083_660cb3e9.jpg zenith_class_el_primero_010501400_watch_on_leather_strap_1569920083_a33d9af5.jpg zenith_class_el_primero_010501400_watch_on_leather_strap_1569920083_b1a7a317.jpg zenith_class_el_primero_010501400_watch_on_leather_strap_1569920083_b18d044d.jpg
    fskywalker and CaptainWinsor like this.
  2. DHKNOLA Nov 6, 2019

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    I would counter lower...band is nothing special, not a hot seller at all. I would counter at $1500 and either get it cheap enough to build in a later service or let it go elsewhere.
     
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  3. amcclell Nov 6, 2019

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    It depends on how badly you want this watch. This is a nice understated design and the asking price is probably fair. You can budget $600-750 for a service. If it was a full set with Zenith deployment strap, warranty card, and booklet, the price would likely be $600-$800 higher.
     
    Strangedream likes this.
  4. Strangedream Nov 6, 2019

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    Without a proven servicing history I don't feel comfortable shelling out two grands. But I feel really attracted by this watch and would love having it on my wrist ...
     
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  5. michael22 Nov 6, 2019

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    You should offer what it is worth to you. Work out your max, & offer 200 less.
     
  6. preacher Nov 7, 2019

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    Watch looks very nice, try to get a discount because of the cost of a service probably needed.
    Don’t be hurry, figth for a good price.
    I don’t know if the box is correct
     
  7. shaun hk Fairy nuffer Nov 7, 2019

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    I own one of these, and pick it up fairly regularly. Positives are quick set date, a decent size, it's accurate and quietly understated.
    Negatives are non hacking (I'd rather quick set date anyway) and no anti reflexive glazing on the outside of the crystal. Reflections when telling the time I don't mind too much, but it's a bitch to get a good photo!
     
  8. BAJJ Nov 7, 2019

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    I got one of these about six months ago, paid 2600 for it, full set, box, papers etc, in NOS condition, original strap etc. It was sold originally in 2012 and virtually unworn since then. I think I got a bargain. I absolutely love it and wear it often, this is a really nice watch and if you can haggle down a bit, it is good value. ep.jpg
     
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  9. Dan S Nov 7, 2019

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    I auctioned off one of these on eBay last year with the original deployant clasp AND bracelet. It had been factory serviced in 2017 (with papers), had original box and warranty papers, and was in perfect shape. The winning bid was below $2k USD. These are just not very popular.
     
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  10. Strangedream Nov 7, 2019

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    Damn, I wish I had seen your listing before. The fact that this watch is niche somehow attracts me a lot. I would buy a Speedmaster because it's a classic design, but I would buy this EP because it ignites something inside me.
     
  11. 03Hemi Nov 7, 2019

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    Just buy it then. It's only money and you can't take it with you, you can always make more.
     
  12. fskywalker Nov 19, 2019

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    Looks really good, make a counter offer to see what happens!
     
    Strangedream likes this.