1970 Zenith El Primero ref. A3818 “Cover Girl” Unpolished, Vibrant Patina

Up for grab is a vintage Zenith El Primero in steel

Reference A3818 with a unique case shape, about 38mm in width.

This particular dial ref. A3818 is referred to as the “Cover Girl” simply because it was featured as the cover image of Manfred Rössler’s book, Zenith: Swiss Watch Manufacture Since 1865.

The case is in superb vintage condition with clearly unpolished sides and very sharp edges. Most of these were polished to badly, you can’t even tell those sharp edges and corners used to be there. Original signed crown.

The dial is spectacular without any scratches. All lume is fully intact and shows a vibrant yellow patina.

The caseback is original, serial number is legible.

The watch was found on this Gay Frères “ladder” bracelet with MC end-links and ’70 date. The outer clasp, as you can see, is signed Movado. During this time Zenith and Movado were essentially the same company and Zenith eventually bought Movado. So, it is very well possible that the retailer sold both brand in the same store, the customer wanted the bracelet version of the El Primero while shopping and they put on this bracelet from a Sub Sea Chrono (for example). Of course it could just be added later, but almost wouldn’t make much sense, especially since i believe the end-links would not fit from a Sub Sea Movado. Either way, the watch has this bracelet, it looks great, it has similar wear to the watch itself, so I will keep it on. If you really don’t want the bracelet, we can discuss adjusting the price and putting it on a leather strap for you.

No box or papers.