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Throwback Thursday: Zenith El Primero Sets the Bar on High Frequency

Throwback Thursday: Zenith El Primero Sets the Bar on High Frequency

Carol Besler
By Carol Besler May 2, 2013
The original El Primero 1969.
The original El Primero 1969.

The El Primero is actually a movement rather than a particular model. In 1969, in the race to create the first automatic chronograph, only Zenith succeeded in designing a fully integrated movement, based around a column wheel. Noted for its high-frequency oscillations (and therefore greater accuracy), the 36,000 VPH mighty El Primero quickly became a highly sought-after industry standard. Its mettle was uniquely tested in 1970 by being strapped to the landing gear of a Boeing 707 on a flight from Paris to New York. Subjected to drastic changes in temperature, pressure and turbulence, it kept perfect time – apart from the timezone difference of course. The movement has been updated over the years – there are 22 caliber variations on the new El Primero, one of the important differences being that the column wheels are now silicium. More current models also open a window on the dial to showcase the movement. The original El Primero model also stood out for its bold, multi-hued dial, featuring three counters in different colors and a red sweep seconds chronograph hand, which by today’s standards seems almost subdued!Screen shot 2013-05-02 at 1.40.08 PM