Collection: Vintage Zenith: El Primero, Pilot & High-Beat Precision

Reach for the star. Zenith is not just a watchmaker; it is a manufacture of records. With over 2,333 chronometry prizes, Zenith represents the pinnacle of Swiss precision. From the legendary El Primero to rugged Pilot instruments, our vintage collection offers masterpieces that were decades ahead of their time.

The Master of Chronographs: El Primero & Beyond

In 1969, Zenith changed the world with the El Primero, the first integrated automatic chronograph beating at a high frequency of 36,000 vph. This movement was so superior that even Rolex used it to power their Daytona for over a decade. At e-v-w.com, we source these icons of speed alongside the elegant Captain and Respirator lines.

📂 Explore our Zenith inventory:

  • 🚀 El Primero Chronographs: The holy grail of vintage collecting. Look for the "Big Blue" or classic A386 styles. These are high-beat legends that define the genre.
  • ✈️ Pilot & Military: Zenith was one of the few brands allowed to print "PILOT" on the dial. These models feature oversized numerals, robust cases, and incredible legibility.
  • 👔 Dress Watches (Cal. 135 / 2542): Underrated gems. Often featuring bumper automatics or manual-wind chronometer-grade movements, offering Patek-level precision at an accessible price.

Investment Insight: Vintage Zenith is often called "the sleeping giant." While prices for the El Primero have risen, the dress and pilot models still offer incredible value compared to brands like Omega or IWC.