Good day All
i am a newcomer in the forum so please allow me to raise a question for feedback as I feel that this is the most appropriate area to ask for advice from the experts.

My father handed to me an El primero A386 MK3 watch that he had bought new from a store more than 45 years ago..Attaching a few photos for your reference.

My questions are :

1. Is this indeed a MK3( based on the case serial numbering)
2. the fact that there is a note SP 1205 what does this mean?
3. Any rough ideas of its value?
4. Is it correct that same was made in 1969-1971?

Many thanks in advance for your advice

Christos

 

1) mk 3
2) not sure what you mean, but if it is a writing in the case back probably means it was serviced in Dec 2005 or something along that line.
3) Google can help
4) mk3 is later so 1971

 

Hello and welcome to the forum.

Yes correct, your serial number and caseback design fall into the MK3 range.

Spillman made the case. SP1205 inside the caseback denotes the case reference from the manufacturer.

The price range on these is large. Anywhere from $5-$35k. All depends on condition, correct parts, bracelet etc

The estimated production on these is 4500 units for all MKs between 1969-1971. Yours being a MK3 would fall into the end of 1970 or 1971.

 

Learn something every day, thanks for the SP1205 enlightenment

 

Very nice gift your father passed you. Hope it's a keeper - if not, feel free to contact me

 

Enjoy it! Amazing watch!

 

Your father has an excellent taste, huge congrats and wear in good health
it seems to be an original Mk3 except the crown and subdial hand in the 30 min counter. And it looks like the tip of the second sub hand is broken what you tried to cover in your pics
condition is hard to judge from your pics, i would say quite good.

 

Hi there! thanks for the tip although it was not in my intention to hide anything.. Any idea about its market value given that it deems service?

thanks

 

Thanks for your nice words.. Indeed my father has a good sense of quality and taste. I am interested in selling it so any offers are welcome
Pls note that the watch requires service, has no signs of damage , normal wear and tear

 

Thank you for your valuable feedback and advice. Good to have info confirmed by the experts!

 

thank

thank you!

 

thank you!

 

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