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  1. sdd7820 Nov 13, 2021

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  2. amcclell Nov 13, 2021

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    If originality is important, I would pass as the case looks like it has been polished and rebrushed. The bracelet is nice but the photos are poor quality so it is difficult to assess the dial, hands and movement. As El Primeros go, this is a reference that is generally lower priced and if you are ok with a refinished case, the price is reasonable for a classic chronograph. You should allot a substantial sum for a service that is almost certainly needed. These blue dials are lovely.
     
  3. Medinatalzahra Nov 14, 2021

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    Scott-

    I would pass on this A788, but for different reasons. First, the case is fine. Original finish (which runs vertically on these models) on both case and caseback. The main issues are that: (1) the hour/minute hands are neither original nor correct, and (2) the crown is not original. Further, the bracelet is not original to this model or time period. The NOS versions of the A788 that I have seen for sale came on a smooth black Zenith leather strap. This is also consistent with the image in Rossler’s bible (pg 250, 2008 edition). I have attached a few snaps of mine. I love this watch BTW. It wears very well and is super cool, even if it is a less favored early EP model. Only 1400 made. I would wait and find a better example. You should expect to pay between appprox. $4500 and $7000, depending on condition. Hope that helps. M
     
    A6C5921D-4354-4FFB-A64B-361AB1A5CDD6.jpeg 031550D7-4529-4BB9-A856-DF8F8D7DC28F.jpeg
  4. sdd7820 Nov 14, 2021

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    Thank you very much for this info. I'm also considering the below EP with several examples available:

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/zenith-el-primero-010210415-1970s--id18292127.htm

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/zenith-el-primero--id20019924.htm

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/zenith-el-primero--id15599865.htm?checkoutId=4247386

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/zen...hronograph--id20614625.htm?checkoutId=4247338


    Do you see one that stands out, and what do you think of this model?
     
  5. Medinatalzahra Nov 15, 2021

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    Scott-

    So, first of all, good for you for focusing on buying an early Zenith EP !! They are awesome watches, and the EP is a fantastic movement..

    Regarding the 01.0210.415, on the pro side: (1) It is still one of the early pre-1974 Zenith EPs. Made in 1973. 4,000 pieces produced; and (2) it is very affordable, particularly for a watch containing the EP movement. On the con side, obviously, It a less desirable model and case shape.
    If you were to buy one of these, I would buy one with the original bracelet and end links. It is a bit different than the Zenith Gay Freres ladder bracelet on other early models. The first example in your list for C24 has the correct bracelet. In addition, there is a mesh bracelet with curved built-in end links that also goes with this watch, which is very cool. I have seen versions manufactured by both Gay Freres and Zenith.

    If you are looking for a more reasonably priced early EP, I would recommend you consider looking at the A781 (Red dial), A782 (Turquoise Dial) or A783 (Sliver Dial with Blue Subdials) with their original lobster bracelet. They are very 70's and not everyone's cup of tea. But, I absolutely love these models and, while heavy, they wear very well with the bracelet. I think they are a much cooler option, and are more likely to appreciate in value over time (if you care about such things). They have lower production numbers (1000 to 1500, depending on the model). and have been appreciating recently, but good examples can still be purchased for ~$4k to $6k. Best of luck on your hunt!
     
  6. sdd7820 Nov 15, 2021

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    Can't say thank you enough for this info Med! Do you know of any of these examples you recommend in the market now?
     
  7. sdd7820 Nov 15, 2021

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    I see these currently in market:

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/el-primero-defy-chronograph--id14649162.htm

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/zenith-el-primero-defy-ref-a782--id10598986.htm

    https://www.chrono24.com/zenith/defy-el-primero-a-783--id21114622.htm

    https://www.ebay.com/itm/1442803812...HJM2hq5zDzA%3D|clp:2334524|tkp:Bk9SR5Kn6tSkXwPurchases made through these links may earn this site a commission from the eBay Partner Network

    https://www.ebay.com/itm/3341794481...XX6d6HURux0%3D|clp:2334524|tkp:Bk9SR5Kn6tSkXwPurchases made through these links may earn this site a commission from the eBay Partner Network
     
  8. Charger_Vital Nov 17, 2021

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    I think it looks cool and at a great price. The service crown should not bother you.
     
    bassem abadan likes this.