Zenith El Primero 01-0200-415 TV Screen - NOS

This Zenith El Primero “Big Blue” TV-Screen Ref. 01.0200.415 from the 1970s is one of the most distinctive and unusual chronographs of the early El Primero era. With fewer than 5,000 examples produced, the reference is already rare in its own right – but in the virtually untouched condition of the present watch, it is exceptionally difficult to find today.

The absolute highlight of this watch is its NOS condition. It appears to have never been worn, or at most only a handful of times, and remains remarkably fresh throughout. The original surfaces of the striking stainless steel case are fully preserved, with sharply defined edges and the original factory finish. Particularly impressive is the original purple protective coating, which is still partially present both on the case back and on the upper surface of the case. Finding this original factory protection still intact on a watch around 50 years old is extremely rare and provides compelling evidence of the exceptional state of preservation of this example.

The futuristic TV-Screen case is one of Zenith’s most unmistakable designs of the period. A particularly ingenious feature is found in the exceptionally large chronograph pushers. Deeply integrated into the sides of the case, they simultaneously act as crown guards – a detail that is both functional and visually distinctive and contributes significantly to the unique appearance of the “Big Blue”.

The dark original dial is likewise preserved in outstanding condition. Three bright, geometrically shaped chronograph registers create a striking contrast against the dark background, while the outer tachymeter scale and date window positioned between four and five o’clock emphasize the watch’s technical and sporty character. Combined with the substantial case, these elements create the unmistakable aesthetic that makes the “Big Blue” one of the most fascinating Zenith designs of the 1970s.

Inside beats the legendary Zenith El Primero caliber 3019 PHC, one of the most important automatic chronograph movements in watchmaking history. With its high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, automatic winding and fully integrated chronograph mechanism, the El Primero was among the most technically advanced chronograph movements of its time when introduced in 1969 and remains at the heart of this watch’s historical significance.

Completing the exceptional overall appearance is the original integrated Zenith stainless steel bracelet with signed Zenith clasp, which, like the case itself, remains in perfect condition.

An already rare Zenith El Primero “Big Blue” TV-Screen – but above all, a true time capsule from the 1970s. Its virtually unworn condition, completely preserved original surfaces and, in particular, the surviving purple factory protective coating on both the upper case and case back make this an exceptional opportunity for discerning collectors of early El Primero chronographs.

Condition Report
Dial: flawlessly preserved - original tritium luminous material in hands - signed "Zenith Automatic El Primero" and "Swiss Made".

Case: virtually unworn - unpolished - sharp edges and fully preserved original surfaces - original purple protective coating partially preserved on the upper case and case back - original winding crown with Zenith logo - like-new engravings on the case back: "01-0200-415" and "Surf Stainless Steel".

Movement: automatic Zenith El Primero caliber 3019 PHC - functioning perfectly in all respects - timegrapher readings: rate: -5 s/day, amplitude: 250°, beat error: 0.2 ms.

Bracelet: original NSA stainless steel bracelet - mint condition - Zenith logo on the clasp - maximum bracelet length approx. 20 cm / 7.9 inches.

Int.Exe.: 98363