Zenith A385

[Adri]

Yesterday on Ebay an A385 has been auctioned for $ 3'227.-

https://www.ebay.com/itm/296175034306

It has been a while since I have seen an A385 with such an attractive dial.
Case seems to be unpolished but hardly worn.
Crown and pusher missing but not so big problem to replace (radio star crown)
Movement is a 3019 PHC which needs for sure a service.
All other parts seems to be correct.

What do you think?
Did the buyer a good deal and he will be rewarded for the gamble?

 

[Geezer]

I was one of the bidders but actually was a bit surprised at the price it reached.

You’re right that the dial appears to be good and the hands have nice lume. However, it is still a gamble because of the low quality pictures and the scratched crystal. The edge of the dial is slightly darkened which is probably a shadow, but if it is dial damage it will significantly impact the value.

So the watch needs a crystal, at least 1 pusher, and a crown which is very hard to find at a reasonable price (I’m still looking for one ). Also, I’m pretty sure the movement needs at least a new rotor along with a service.

Also, no ladder bracelet which I feel is a necessity for this reference.

So once this is cleaned up I guess this is a 5-6k watch if the dial is good.

Any other views?

Edited: Jan 27, 2024

 

[Mark020]

What happened with the case?

 

[vujen]

no serial number on the caseback?

 

[jantjewgm]

The case is a little worn and a lot of work, but I absolutely love the colour of that dial and lume.

 

[Adri]

I agree with @Geezer but wouldn't hesitate a second to fit a normal radio star crown instead a nato star.
Why do you think should be something with the rotor?
For me it looks normal.

Mark020

What happened with the case?

Don't know but I think it's dirt and wrist cheese which you can be removed.

vujen

no serial number on the caseback?

Seller mentioned the serial number in the listing so I assume it's still there but pictures are shit.


The dial has really something and I would really love to see it removed from the case (I would bet all scratches are on the plexiglass).

I would be really on fire for such a project.

1.
Separate case and movement/dial
2.
Remove the scratched plexiglass
3.
Clean the case, replace the broken pusher and fit a new plexiglass.
4.
Reassemble and send to the watchmaker for a full service

This is the result I have in my mind


(Kudos to Eric Wind because I stole the picture form his webpage)

Let's hope the bidding winner is a member here and we see better pictures before and after.

 

[Geezer]

You can see the rotor has been rubbing on the mainplate and the brass base material can be seen near the crown and pusher. It’s a common issue.

Adri

Why do you think should be something with the rotor?

I hope indeed that we get to see the watch here once it has been cleaned up.

 

[Dan S]

Seems about right given the overall condition and unknowns. I have one of these and I like it, but it's the low end of the original models.

 

[Geezer]

Here's my beat up A385.

I would still love to own a piece such as in the OP with silvered subdials. As far as I know, it is still a mystery when these were introduced but I assume the matt white subdials came first.

Alas, I have several other projects ongoing now (2 of which are Zeniths).

 

[Adri]

Geezer

You can see the rotor has been rubbing on the mainplate and the brass base material can be seen near the crown and pusher. It’s a common issue.

You're right. I read about that but never came across with my 3019s.

Dan S

Seems about right given the overall condition and unknowns. I have one of these and I like it, but it's the low end of the original models.

If you look USD / EUR it seems to be a fair right price.
I rate it in CHF and so it seems to be cheap.

@Geezer Very nice A385

I own an A3818 but want to add to the collection an A384 oder A385 (silver sundials)