Zenith El Primero A3818 Cover Girl - like NOS

This Zenith El Primero A3818 "Cover Girl" from 1969 is not only one of the true icons of the vintage Zenith universe, but also presents itself in "like NOS" condition, making it a remarkable rarity and an almost irreplaceable collector’s piece.

The reference A3818 earned its nickname "Cover Girl" thanks to its prominent appearance on the cover of Manfred Rössler’s renowned book "Zenith: Swiss Watch Manufacture Since 1865" - a testament to its historical importance (see images).

Inside ticks the legendary Zenith Caliber 3019 PHC, one of the world's first high-frequency automatic chronograph movements. A notable feature: even back in the 1960s, the El Primero already offered a quick-set date - a rare function for its time.

The tonneau-shaped stainless steel case is preserved in a stunning, virtually unworn condition - with razor-sharp edges, original sunburst finish, full case profile and deeply engraved serial number on the caseback. All of these features speak to the untouched nature of this 60-year-old timepiece.

The vertically brushed blue dial is in excellent condition. The characteristic fading at the edges of the sub-dials and date window emphasizes the authenticity and strong vintage character of this extremely rare watch.

Particularly striking is the thoughtfully designed, minimalist yet complex dial layout: a finely graduated minute track with varying hash lengths, the iconic red "paddle" chronograph hand, long vanilla-toned tritium hour markers and a recessed tachymeter scale around the periphery - each detail a mark of refined design.

A timepiece of exceptional recognition value, historical importance, rare preservation, and uncompromising originality - truly a masterpiece for the discerning collector.

Condition report
Dial: excellently preserved - typical fading on the edges of the sub-dials - original tritium luminous material in markers and hands - signed with: "Zenith Chronograph Automatic El Primero - T Swiss Made T".

Case: Stainless steel case in an almost unworn condition - crisp edges, full profile - original sunburst finish - deep serial number on the back - NATO star on the back - original winding crown with NATO star.

Movement: automatic caliber Zenith 3019 PHC - values on the timegrapher: rate: +9s/day, beat error: 0.1 ms, amplitude: 260 degrees.

Serial number: 233Exxx

Int.Exe.: 1953084