Zenith El Primero A3817 Gay-Frères Bracelet

This 1970s Zenith El Primero A3817 automatic chronograph with the beautiful tri-color dial in the cushion-shaped case comes with its original Gay-Frères bracelet.

This wristwatch is powered by the legendary El Primero caliber, which was developed by Zenith in 1969. The El Primero was characterized by its high-frequency movement operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour (VPH) and thus offers a higher rate accuracy compared to the movements of the same era. In addition, the El Primero movement even has a quick-set date function, which is a rare feature for wristwatches from the 1970s.

The reference A3817 has a striking three-color dial (tri-color) that is similar to, but different from, the legendary Zenith reference A386. The sub-dial for the running seconds at 9 o'clock on the Ref. A3817 has a blue hand and blue markers, while all the sub-dials of the Ref. A386 have white indices and white hands. Classic elements of the El Primero family are the red chronograph seconds hand with the paddle tip and the date window between 4 and 5 o'clock. The gray ring, which houses both a tachymeter scale and a pulsation scale, provides a nice contrast.

Another specialty of the ref. A3817 is its cushion-shaped case design, which was very popular in the 1970s. The case has a diameter of around 38mm and is relatively flat, which makes for a classic and refined look on the wrist.

This watch is accompanied by the original and very rare Gay-Frères ladder bracelet from 1971. These lightweight bracelets sit very comfortably on the wrist and have a great look.

Only around 1000 examples of the reference A3817 were produced. Compared to the approximately 2500 examples of the reference A386, the reference A3817 is even rarer than its famous sister.

Condition report
Dial: excellent condition - light, natural patina - original tritium luminous material in hands and markers - matching patina in markers and hands - applied Zenith logo (star) - dial signed "Zenith Chronograph Automatic El Primero" and "swiss made T".

Case: greatly preserved - slightly refurbished - very slight signs of wear - intact finish - intact engraving of the serial number on the back - correct crown with the NATO logo - correct engravings inside the back: "SP 1301" (Spillman case).

Movement: automatic Zenith El Primero caliber 3019PHC - values on the timegrapher: rate deviation -10s/day, beat error: 0.0 ms, amplitude: 215 degrees - chronograph starts, stops and resets perfectly.

Bracelet: original Gay-Frères stainless steel bracelet (ladder bracelet) - natural stretch - slight signs of wear - Zenith folding clasp - date stamp: 4/71 (fourth quarter 1971).

Summing-Up
Overall, this Zenith El Primero A3817 is a classic timepiece that exemplifies the craftsmanship and innovation that Zenith is known for. The combination of rarity, unique design, powerful movement and condition makes it a valuable addition to any watch collection.

Serial number: 904Dxxx

Int.Exe.: 45252