Zenith El Primero "Surf" Automatic 1970's
Insured international delivery
Serviced by our watchmaker
12-Month Mechanical
Warranty
Returns accepted
within 14 days
This Zenith El Primero “Surf” dates back to the 1970s and was produced in limited quantities. Its gold-plated cushion-shaped steel case houses a tone-on-tone gold dial, featuring three sub-dials (small seconds, minutes, and hours) and a date window at the 4 o'clock position.
It is powered by the caliber 3019 PHC, an automatic column-wheel movement that beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour and allows for time measurement to the tenth of a second. The date can be quick-set via the crown.
Watch condition
The watch is entirely original. The dial is in excellent condition and has never been touched. The mineral crystal shows some light scratches visible from certain angles. The crown is signed. The case shows some signs of wear consistent with its age, but remains in good overall condition.
Photo / video taken on a 17 cm wrist
Did Zenith invent the first automatic chronograph?
Zenith unveiled the El Primero to the press on January 10, 1969. It was the first high-frequency automatic chronograph, with a chronograph integrated into the movement and controlled by a column wheel. However, 1969 saw the birth of several automatic chronographs, including the Caliber 11 from Heuer, Breitling, Büren, and Dubois-Depraz, as well as the 6139 from Seiko. The title of "first" therefore depends on the criteria used.
How did the El Primero survive the quartz crisis?
When Zenith management ordered the disposal of everything related to mechanical watchmaking, watchmaker Charles Vermot disobeyed. He hid the plans, parts, and tools for the 3019 caliber, and returned them to Zenith in 1984. This act allowed for the relaunch of El Primero production.
The 3019 PHC caliber in brief
This is the automatic chronograph version of the El Primero with a date. It has 31 jewels and beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour.
The 3019 PHF adds a complete calendar and moon phases.
- Reference
- Serviced in
- Calibre
- Movement
- Case
- Diameter
- Lug width
What comes with your watch
Our signature case to protect and store your piece.
A brand-new leather strap, ready to wear.
A 12-month warranty certificate, which also attests to its authenticity.
Customs / Taxes
- For orders within the European Union, our prices include all taxes. No additional fees will be added upon delivery.
- For orders outside the European Union, customs duties or import taxes specific to your country of residence may be required upon receipt. Please check official websites for more information.
Delivery
We ship our watches worldwide via UPS, FedEx or DHL.
Standard delivery
- France: 2-3 business days
- Europe, UK, Switzerland: 2-5 business days
- North America: 4-10 business days
- Rest of the world: 4-10 business days
Express delivery
- France: 1-2 business days
- Europe, UK, Switzerland: 1-3 business days
- North America: 2-6 business days
- Rest of the world: 2-6 business days
The delivery times shown are estimates and may vary depending on your location, the shipping method chosen, carrier availability and customs clearance.
Waterproofing
Our vintage watches are not water-resistant.
Avoid contact with water, as well as exposure to dust, sand, or excessive moisture, to ensure the mechanism continues to function properly.
Any water or dust that gets inside the watch may damage it and is not covered by the warranty.
Returns
You have 14 days from the receipt of your order to make a return. To learn more, please consult our return policy.
Any other questions?
Check out our FAQ page
