Thoughts on this Vintage A386

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Hi

Curious the forums thoughts on the attached vintage 386? Comes with box/blank papers. Went through an online 386 guide and looks to be a lovely example.

Thanks as alway!

 
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It looks like a very nice example from the photos, Eric does typically get good examples.
 
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It looks like a very nice example from the photos, Eric does typically get good examples.
Agreed, but $$$, and although it is a full set, if you are patient / perhaps a little lucky, you can do much better on price...

 
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I think it’s different, caseback serials are different.
Not the same, but looks to be similar condition, which is hard to find...
 
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The box and blank papers are fun to have, but don't add a ton of value, IMO. If you were to buy them separately, they would maybe bring a few hundred USD.
 
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Is $22k too much to pay? I’ve seen examples in the $15k range but not nearly in a nice condition.
 
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You will always pay a huge premium to buy from a prestige dealer. You need to decide for yourself if you're satisfied with the price. Just realize that you will take a big loss if you choose to pass it on at some point.
 
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You will always pay a huge premium to buy from a prestige dealer. You need to decide for yourself if you're satisfied with the price. Just realize that you will take a big loss if you choose to pass it on at some point.
Makes sense and appreciate the input
 
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IMO the A386s are the most Frankenstein-ed (?) of the vintage El Primeros so the prices also have the most range. Eric Wind is as meticulous and precise as they get so you know you are getting a very clean example from him and for that you will pay a premium but his prices are generally reasonable vs. auction and higher end dealers.
I agree with Dan S that the box and tag do not ad much value but they are cool. The Gay Frere’s bracelet will also cost several thousand with correct end links and clasp if you want to add that to the watch. I love those watches on the ladder bracelet and have owned several (A3818, A384, A385…etc.).
 
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IMO the A386s are the most Frankenstein-ed (?) of the vintage El Primeros so the prices also have the most range. Eric Wind is as meticulous and precise as they get so you know you are getting a very clean example from him and for that you will pay a premium but his prices are generally reasonable vs. auction and higher end dealers.
I have no idea what the situation is with this particular watch, but TBH, it's a fantasy to think that buying a watch from any prestige dealer means that you are magically buying something special and original. IMO, the top dealers frequently restore and put together good-looking examples for resale. They have the resources and contacts to do it, and they can use their famous name to get away with it. Occasionally, they get too greedy and they get caught (often with a false story), there's a brief scandal, and then people go back to thinking that they are trustworthy again. It's a sad pattern we've seen over and over again.
 
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I have no idea what the situation is with this particular watch, but TBH, it's a fantasy to think that buying a watch from any prestige dealer means that you are magically buying something special and original. IMO, the top dealers frequently restore and put together good-looking examples for resale. They have the resources and contacts to do it, and they can use their famous name to get away with it. Occasionally, they get too greedy and they get caught (often with a false story), there's a brief scandal, and then people go back to thinking that they are trustworthy again. It's a sad pattern we've seen over and over again.
 
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Agree with Dan S, a dealer does not guarantee condition and they are in the sales business. That said, this particular dealer, Wind Vintage, has a stellar reputation, many pod casts, historical articles written by Charlie Dunne and Eric. If you have a particular question about a piece they will answer honestly and will stand by their assessments.
These Zeniths have a history of the hands with the red outline and the lume especially on the paddle second hands to be unstable, crack and fall out. Often they are retouched and/or stabilized…I like to find ones that speak to me. Some focus on the case, others the dial, and others like fully restored…its all a personal choice!
 
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My poor opinion: small hands and crown not original... service both.... nice condition with great dial !
If price is in your range, BUY IT FASTTTTTTTT 😉

Best
GIGI