Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969
SKU: 43763957782

Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969

Sale price$4927.50 Regular price$5475.00
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Description

Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 The Legendary MK1 from 1969 A seminal reference in the history of the automatic chronograph, this rare first series Zenith El Primero A386 MK1 from 1969 represents one of the most significant milestones in 20th century watchmaking. Technically groundbreaking and aesthetically timeless, this example is a superb blend of innovation and vintage charman absolute must have for any serious collector. A Dial with Soul

Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969

A seminal reference in the history of the automatic chronograph, this rare first-series Zenith El Primero A386 MK1 from 1969 represents one of the most significant milestones in 20th-century watchmaking. Technically groundbreaking and aesthetically timeless, this example is a superb blend of innovation and vintage charm—an absolute must-have for any serious collector.

A Dial with Soul – Original and Lightly Patinated

This example features the iconic original tri-color dial—a hallmark of the A386 series—with overlapping light grey, blue, and anthracite sub-dials that create instant recognition among connoisseurs. The dial has gracefully aged with a soft, even patina, adding depth and character without compromising legibility or brilliance.

Slim baton hour markers and a red chronograph hand deliver contrast and clarity, while the applied Zenith star and original handset complete the composition with enduring elegance. This is a dial that doesn’t just tell time—it tells a story.

Vintage Steel Case – Lightly Polished, Still Sharp

Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case, the watch retains the elegant, rounded profile that helped define the golden era of chronograph design. The case has been polished in the past, softening some factory edges, yet it remains well-proportioned and handsome on the wrist. The signed Zenith crown is present and correct, further confirming its originality.

The domed acrylic crystal provides a warm, vintage glow to the dial, while the caseback shows expected signs of gentle wear—consistent with the age, but nothing that detracts from its charm or collectability.

Inside Innovation – Calibre 3019PHC

Powering this horological legend is the revolutionary Zenith Calibre 3019PHC, the world’s first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement. Beating at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour, it enables superior precision and a silky-smooth chronograph sweep.

This very calibre would later be chosen by Rolex to power early automatic Daytonas—an endorsement of its engineering brilliance. Mechanically sound and still a joy to operate, this movement marks a turning point in watchmaking history.

Refined Details & Handmade Craft

Completing the package is a hand-stitched leather strap, crafted in Belgium with care and intention. It adds an earthy, artisanal feel that pairs beautifully with the watch’s vintage heritage, and ensures comfortable, elegant wearability.

Key Details:

  • Reference: A386 MK1 (1969)

  • Movement: Zenith Cal. 3019PHC, Automatic, 36,000vph

  • Case Size: 38mm

  • Case Material: Stainless Steel, Polished

  • Dial: Original Tri-Color with Light Patina

  • Crown: Signed Zenith

  • Crystal: Domed Acrylic

  • Strap: Handmade Leather, Belgium

  • Condition: Excellent vintage condition; original dial with patina, polished case, authentic crown

Why This Watch?

The Zenith El Primero A386 MK1 is a cornerstone of the chronograph world—a pioneering automatic movement housed in a design that has stood the test of time. With its lightly patinated original dial, high-frequency calibre, and roots that connect directly to Rolex’s Daytona lineage, this watch offers unmatched heritage and technical prestige.

A true collector's chronograph, it embodies the spirit of 1960s innovation and style. Reach out for more details or to schedule a viewing—this is a rare and meaningful opportunity.

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SKU: 43763957782

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TheGreatWifeShark
Waukegan, US
★★★★★ 5
Finally, a non-toxic chapstick!
So I typically make my own products at home using beef tallow. But I was in dire need of chapstick, and just didn't have any time or energy to do it, so I came across this brand on Amazon and had to try. I love it! Not only is it HUGE, but it is unscented, it's glides on perfectly and my lips feel super moisturized for hours. As with all tallow products, you have to be super careful about letting this stuff sit in the heat. So if you were planning on keeping it in your purse or car, it'll definitely turn into a ooey gooey mess. I keep mine in my nightstand in an air-conditioned room, and even then it gets a bit too warm on our hot 103F Summer days. Nevertheless, I recommend to those who are looking for a non-toxic chapstick that super moisturizing.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 1, 2024
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J. Taylor
Louisville, US
★★★★★ 5
Tried the wife’s stuff, and it’s a better tool for the job.
Husband review: The wife ordered this stuff for herself, skeptical about what’s in a lot of cosmetics. I always went straight for good ol’ Carmex; but I tried it once because I was too lazy to dig around for mine. This stuff is sometimes a better tool for the job. I service swimming pools and work outside in the sun, so I sometimes struggle with dehydration & get cracked lips occasionally. I put this on before bed, and it lasts all night so I wake up better off. It’s not medicated (what she wanted), but it’s hydrating. So while I still occasionally use Carmex at work, reapplying a few times to get damaged cracks together, I use this to maintain & finish the job overnight where the other stuff would have just evaporated within an hour. Another thing: it’s soft, where chap stick would pull on a sore/crack, this stuff goes on an into damaged places like a lubricant.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 7, 2024
M
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MKAT
Birmingham, US
★★★★★ 3
Very moisturizing but no honey flavor and can get greasy
The product is very moisturizing, that's for sure. Tube is large which makes for a messy application on a warm day. Was fine when temp dropped to 77 as shown in picture. Better to dab on with your finger regardless imo. No honey scent or flavor whatsoever which is greatly disappointing. I checked multiple times that I didn't accidently order a plain one. Had a faint meaty scent which is barely noticeable (I'm okay with that knowing it's all natural versus something with chemicals) but then it shouldn't be called "honey glazed". Would have been 5 stars if i wasnt misled and it was advertised as plain (or indicated that you don't taste the honey but it's there to neutralize the tallow flavor), also it could use some (more) beeswax to make it more stable. Suggest re-marketing it in a round tin as an all around balm and making a smaller tube with more beeswax for a lip balm. Versus a traditional lip balm, would recommend this product if you are okay with the nuances noted above.
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Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2024
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User 1
Fort Morgan, US
★★★★★ 4
What changed in the formula?? Now a chemical smell. 😕
What changed?? I got one in the fall and LOVED it more than any lip balm ever! But I just got two more (one for my car and one for my bag) and it has a strong chemical smell. I’ve used it for a week, hoping the smell would fade somehow, but it hasn’t. I would love an answer from the company about what changed. And please change back to the original formula! It was lovely, smooth with a slight sweet taste from the honey. The first one was 5 stars, and now I would say 2 at most, so I tried to average it at 4 stars (with hope for a change).
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Reviewed in the United States on February 22, 2025
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Heather M
Carnegie, US
★★★★★ 1
Warning!!! Contaminated!!!!
This is the second time I've ordered this lip balm. The first time, the lip balm was great, unscented and worked well, so well that i ordered another to keep in the car. I ordered the same one, just 3 ingredients - tallow, beeswax, and honey. Except this one is contaminated with some kind of chemicals! It leaves an awful taste that permeates my whole mouth. It's like chemicals or strong perfume and kind of stings! Not only am i disappointed but I'm furious because my child used it first! We still have the awful taste in our mouths and I'm concerned what kind of chemicals we might have just been exposed to.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2024

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