Presented at Baselworld 2016 which comes to an end today, the legendary Zenith manufacture added a new El Primero 36,000 vph to their collection. The new Zenith El Primero 36,000 vph Classic Cars, joins the ranks of one of the most legendary chronographs in the world. A model conceived to be the institutional reference for all their partnerships involving vintage racing and classic cars moving forward, the new Zenith El Primero 36,000 vph Classic Cars ref. 03.2046.4002/25.C771 is a regular production watch with no limitation.
Its anthracite dial featuring an engine-type finish —similar to recessed Côtes de Genève— and punctuated by three counters in the original anthracite, blue and light grey colors, is further enhanced by a tachymeter scale on its outer perimeter and all perfectly accentuated by red chronograph hands and also a red central sweep-seconds hand. The dial features faceted applied markers with luminova, a 12-hour chrono register at 6, a 30-minute chrono register at 3, a running seconds register at 9 and a framed date aperture at 6 o'clock.
Fitted with a 42 mm case in stainless steel with alternating highly polished and satin brushed areas, the new El Primero 36,000 vph Classic Cars features the traditional pump pushers with color accents in red and black. Fitted with a fluted screw-down crown, the finish of the case is remarkably exceptional.
Turning the watch around, reveals the beating heart of the new Zenith El Primero 36,000 vph Classic Cars. A powerful and accurate El Primero 400B automatic chronograph movement. Beating at a high frequency of 36,000 vph, the chronograph allows for measurements down to a tenth of a second. Along with its integrated column wheel construction, this movement composed of 326 parts and 31 jewels is wound by an oscillating weight adorned with a Côtes de Genève motif, while delivering a power reserve of more than 50 hours.
The new Zenith El Primero 36,000 vph Classic Cars is water resistant to 100 meters and is fitted with a perforated chestnut brown calfskin strap that is rubber-lined. The strap is fitted with the traditional stainless steel triple folding clasp found on other El Primero modern timepieces. The strap is very nicely done with a faux patina on it, in order to create the right vintage look and feel on the timepiece.
On the wrist, the watch wears slightly bigger than its actual size and more like a 44 mm watch. One thing we love about this watch, is that depending on lighting conditions and the angle at which you look at the dial, you'll get interesting color variations ranging from a pencil graphite grey all the way to a very light grey.
For the money, you get a lot of watch and one of the best chronographs ever created. If you love vintage cars and classic vintage racing as much as we do, this watch better be on your wrist next time you attend the Vintage Racing Championship.
Sticker Price $6,700 USD. For more info on Zenith click here.
