If you want a modern Zenith El Primero watch that combines the heritage of the famed “hi beat” mechanical chronograph and modern materials in a classic looking package then this El Primero watches will be right up your alley. Black and white “panda dial” watches are enduringly beloved by us watch nerds, especially when brands don’t ruin them with too much extra color.

At 42mm wide the cases of the El Primero 36,000 VPH watches pictured here are ideally-sized, in my opinion. The cases are remarkably light being aluminum, but are coated in ceramic. Zenith calls them “ceramicised aluminum,” which is important because aluminum scratches easily and ceramic coatings do not. Don’t worry, you aren’t the first one to read that term and at a glance think we are talking about circumcised metal cases.

The matte black color is sporty and the 42mm case is just 12.75mm thick with 100 meters of water resistance in traditional El Primero style. Note the “box style” sapphire crystal which gives the watch a vintage look.

The standard El Primero dial style is marked by a mostly monochromatic color tone with the lightest hint of red in two of the chronograph hands. The timeless, classic look of black & white “panda dials,” make sporty chronograph watches like the El Primero 36,000 look their best. It also has the versatility to be suitable with a lot of attire options. That’s really the beauty of black and white… that it goes with pretty much everything. More so, rather than three distinct high-contrast subdials, you have three overlapping subdials which makes it look like you have an uplifting homage to Mickey Mouse on your wrist at all times. Zenith, the most El Primero place on earth!

Inside the Zenith El Primero 36,000 VPH is the in-house made Zenith caliber 400B automatic column-wheel movement. You can see the movement through the rear of the case’s sapphire crystal exhibition window. The movement operates at 5Hz (36,000 bph), which Zenith prefers to say is 36,000 vibrations per hour (“vph”). The date window is located 6 o’clock – and is among the more attractive date window on dial integrations on a sport watch you’ll find out there.

Watch condition (refer to photos)

All images are from the actual watch for sale (WE NEVER USE INTERNET BASED PICTURES). To avoid any misunderstanding regarding scratches etc., please view carefully all images of the watch you’re interested in. The condition can be seen and judged in the pictures.

Case: excellent condition

Clock face: excellent condition

Glass: excellent condition

Back face: excellent condition

Bracelet: excellent condition

Movement: fully operational / checked for performance, authenticity and functionality.

Evaluation

The recent comparable model Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Ref.: 24.2041.400/21.R576 has a retail price of 8,950. – EURO.

Please consider the unique design of this model combining modern elements of the horologers with the spirit and appearance of the original model launched by Zenith mid-century.

Payment
We accept payments by wire transfer to our company’s bank account, by PayPal or by credit card (VISA, MASTERCARD, etc.). Please note that goods will only be sent after agreed payment is visible into our account.

Shipping
We are shipping our watches also internationally using insured shipping and only the most reliable shipping service by DHL. The shipping cost is supported by the customer and will be added on the invoice.

Sales processing

Immediate after your purchase, you will receive all payment information by e-mail. Your order will be dispatched with DHL within the next working day or within 36 hours after your payment has been received respectively. Incoming payments are checked several times daily via online banking and are forwarded to be shipped immediately.

Item and accessories will be delivered as pictured. Manuals, papers, certificate cards, booklets and boxes are only included in the delivery if mentioned in the description and/or shown in the pictures. The pictures show the actual watch you are buying. All pictures were taken by MD Watches.