Zenith El Primero G381 Tropical Dial

There are vintage watches that bring together several exceptional qualities: historical significance, great rarity, fascinating design, and a state of preservation that seems almost unbelievable after more than half a century. This Zenith El Primero G381 from around 1970 is one such example. Produced in an extremely limited series of an estimated 700 pieces, it combines one of the most important chronograph movements in watchmaking history with a solid 18-karat yellow gold case and an exceptionally beautiful tropical dial. Particularly impressive, however, is its near-mint condition. A watch that has apparently been worn only very rarely over the course of more than five decades.

The absolute highlight of this Zenith is undoubtedly its extraordinary dial. Originally featuring a silver-white surface with black subdials and a black outer minute track, the dark areas have gradually transformed into a beautiful, warm chocolate-brown tone over the decades. Particularly fascinating is the remarkably even color change, affecting all three subdials as well as the surrounding outer ring. Combined with the silver-white dial, gold-colored hour markers, and red chronograph hand, this creates an exceptionally harmonious color combination that gives this rare Zenith its unmistakable character.

Equally remarkable is the condition of the solid 18-karat yellow gold case. The lugs retain sharp edges and beautifully preserved facets, while the original brushed finishes have also survived in outstanding condition. The deep, sharply defined gold hallmarks on the underside of the lugs further highlight the exceptional state of preservation. In fact, the watch is preserved in near-NOS condition, something rarely encountered in a gold chronograph more than 50 years old. Only the caseback shows a few marks caused by opening the case. Otherwise, the watch gives the impression of a timepiece that has survived the past decades almost untouched.

Inside beats the legendary Zenith El Primero caliber 3019 PHC, an automatic column-wheel chronograph movement with date display and a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour. This technical masterpiece established the exceptional reputation of the El Primero and remains one of the most important developments in the history of mechanical chronographs.

What truly makes this Zenith exceptional, however, is the combination of all its remarkable qualities: one of the rarest early El Primero references, a solid 18-karat yellow gold case preserved in near-mint condition, and a stunning tropical dial that has developed its beautiful natural patina over decades.

This exceptional collector’s piece is complemented by an original Zenith presentation box from the 1970s.

Condition Report
Dial: Original dial in excellent condition – the originally black subdials and outer minute track have developed a beautiful chocolate-brown tropical patina over the decades – original tritium luminous material on the hour markers and hands – signed "Zenith Chronograph Automatic El Primero Swiss Made".

Case: Solid 18-karat yellow gold case in exceptional condition – unpolished, with sharp edges, beautifully preserved facets, and original brushed finishes – deep, sharply defined gold hallmarks on the underside of the lugs – only a few scratches on the caseback caused by opening the case – original Zenith-signed crown - width between the lugs: 18 mm.

Movement: Original Zenith El Primero caliber 3019 PHC automatic movement – timegrapher readings: rate −12 seconds/day, amplitude 231°, beat error 0.2 ms.

Serial number: 644Dxxx

Int.Exe.: 251295