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This year Baselworld could be summed up with one word – “Vintage”. Every brand had its own classic model and tried to play on our feelings. Nevertheless, I like Zenith approach where they mixed modern and classic in order to get nice watch. Here is another one – Zenith El Primero A384 Revival. Swiss watchmaker decided to celebrate 50th anniversary of the famous calibre and I can guess that we will see more during 2019. Now let’s talk about the new edition which was presented on the last week of June.
By the way, here you can read about another interesting Zenith watch.
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True First
A384 was the first model to house the famous swiss calibre. In January Zenith presented A386, and now we have a chance to get even older type. By the way, winter release was sold out fast and now watch fans try to find at least one box for their own collection. Well, new edition has all the chances to beat “younger” watch. Swiss brand digitized all original parts in order to get as precise copy as it is possible at the moment.
Of course, classic case shape gets revived as well. In my opinion it is one of the main advantages of Zenith A384. Instead of modern large watches, newcomer measures only 37 mm. Another notable feature – absence of polished surfaces on the top panel. Instead we get brushed finish with massive lugs. I am surprised that all this stuff still looks good today and should be suitable in everyday use too.
Dial
Next eye-pleasing feature is contrast dial made with classic black and white combination. Lacquered white middle area comes with black tachymeter and looks just right on this watch. Hands and dial will be covered with Super-Luminova – small touch of modern tech in classic design. Dial is closed with sapphire glass, and it is good to see this deviation from original. Yes, first release had mineral glass, but I would rather have more durable material. It is also safe to say that there will be some complaints from those who love that “warm” effect from mineral glass. Well, it is matter of your personal taste. I think it is better to have watch without scratches with help of such slight change. Another change comes on the opposite side – full metal back cover replaced with transparent part. Here Swiss watchmaker could have offered a choice or even included both versions in the box.
New Engine
Of course, inside you will get new version of the famous calibre. Zenith El Primero A384 Revival comes with El Primero 400 chronograph movement. Clear rear cover will help you appreciate beauty of this mechanism.
On the photos you see A384 with leather alligator strap. Yes, they look nice together, but I would recommend to order something different. Press release states that there will be an option of integrated metal bracelet, just like on the original release. This option should be a must-have in my opinion. As for leather – better get some custom option tailored to your taste. For example, masters from TlustyCo can help you with this so that you would have truly unique strap.
Zenith El Primero A384 Revival – Limited?
That’s not all though. A386 came out as Limited Edition, but A384 won’t be limited in any sense. Zenith decided to make it available just like any other watch from its line. In other words new model will be exclusive but relatively accessible one. I like design, but not sure about such approach to “revival” models… Maybe it would be better to limit amount of this one as well? 🙂
Technical Specs
EL PRIMERO A384 REVIVAL SPECIAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Reference: 03.A384.400/21.C815
MOVEMENT
Movement: El Primero 400 Automatic
Calibre: 13¼“` (Diameter: 30 mm)
Movement thickness: 6.6 mm
Components: 278
Jewels: 31
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power-reserve.: min. 50 hours
Finishes: Oscillating weight with “Côtes de Genève” motif
FUNCTIONS
Hours and minutes in the centre
Small seconds at 9 o'clock
Chronograph:
– Central chronograph hand
– 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock
– 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock
Tachymetric scale
Date indication at 4:30
CASE, DIAL & HANDS
Diameter: 37 mm
Diameter opening: 32.3 mm
Thickness: 12.60 mm
Crystal: Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides
Case-back: Transparent sapphire crystal
Material: Stainless steel
Water-resistance: 10 ATM
Dial: White-lacquered dial with black-coloured counters
Hour-markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Super-LumiNova®SLN C3
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Super-LumiNova®SLN C3
STRAPS & BUCKLES
Strap: Comes in a black alligator strap or ladder bracelet
Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
