Hi all,

I am looking at a Zenith El Primero Chronograph from the noughties. This watch sings out to me and I am keen to purchase, it is a private sale but the buyer can provide a statement of authenticity. However before I go ahead is there any advice on this particular watch that you can pass on, how can I tell a fake, what to look out for etc? I do know a little about Zenith from exhaustive research on the web, but I can only find little about this watch. It's not as much of a classic that you see on this forum but I love its classic looks and think it has the potential to be one in the future.
Thanks

 

Hello,

This el primero loks good to me. it is a late 90s - early 2000s reference. Have you got more photos (caseback for example) ? i own a ref 03.0510.400 that is similar to yours

 

Looks fine to me. I had a similar black-dial version for a while but I never really came to love it. I think it has a display back, in which case you should be able to get a nice view of the movement to give you more confidence.

 

Make sure it is in good mechanical shape (and ideally serviced by somebody who knows these things). Service on these can be... not cheap.

 

Hey guys, thanks for your prompt replies, couple of more pics below. It is reported as serviced in July and comes with a warranty until next July but not from Zenith, but that's not bad for a private sale.

 

it is all good, go ahead and enjoy wearing a watch with a legendary movement

 

Looks good to me, a beauty.

 

Well that one fell through, looking at this now, patience required.......

 

I like this one better! Just my opinion, doesn't mean anything really.

 

+1

 

My personal preference is black...more versatile with the silver slightly dressier...not that I follow the rules!

 

The black dial one is quite a handsome piece, I too prefer it over the other.

 

Thanks all, trying to put a deal together on the black one, wish me luck

 

Well it arrived today, very happy. All my boxes ticked, in house movement, Chrono, leather strap, display case etc

 

Congratulations on a very nice watch! That’s a keeper, wear it often and if you get tired of it let me know.

 

These 90's Primeros are really underestimated! Lovely watches

 

Very classic design and size.

 

Thanks guys, really enjoying this watch, a couple of better pics, apologize for going on a bit

 

Great watch, congratulations

 

A little research and patience pays some serious dividends!