SKU: 48426227163

Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969

Sale price$4927.50 Regular price$5475.00
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Description

Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 The Legendary MK1 from 1969 A seminal reference in the history of the automatic chronograph, this rare first series Zenith El Primero A386 MK1 from 1969 represents one of the most significant milestones in 20th century watchmaking. Technically groundbreaking and aesthetically timeless, this example is a superb blend of innovation and vintage charman absolute must have for any serious collector. A Dial with Soul

Zenith El Primero Chronograph Ref. A386 – The Legendary MK1 from 1969

A seminal reference in the history of the automatic chronograph, this rare first-series Zenith El Primero A386 MK1 from 1969 represents one of the most significant milestones in 20th-century watchmaking. Technically groundbreaking and aesthetically timeless, this example is a superb blend of innovation and vintage charm—an absolute must-have for any serious collector.

A Dial with Soul – Original and Lightly Patinated

This example features the iconic original tri-color dial—a hallmark of the A386 series—with overlapping light grey, blue, and anthracite sub-dials that create instant recognition among connoisseurs. The dial has gracefully aged with a soft, even patina, adding depth and character without compromising legibility or brilliance.

Slim baton hour markers and a red chronograph hand deliver contrast and clarity, while the applied Zenith star and original handset complete the composition with enduring elegance. This is a dial that doesn’t just tell time—it tells a story.

Vintage Steel Case – Lightly Polished, Still Sharp

Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case, the watch retains the elegant, rounded profile that helped define the golden era of chronograph design. The case has been polished in the past, softening some factory edges, yet it remains well-proportioned and handsome on the wrist. The signed Zenith crown is present and correct, further confirming its originality.

The domed acrylic crystal provides a warm, vintage glow to the dial, while the caseback shows expected signs of gentle wear—consistent with the age, but nothing that detracts from its charm or collectability.

Inside Innovation – Calibre 3019PHC

Powering this horological legend is the revolutionary Zenith Calibre 3019PHC, the world’s first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement. Beating at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour, it enables superior precision and a silky-smooth chronograph sweep.

This very calibre would later be chosen by Rolex to power early automatic Daytonas—an endorsement of its engineering brilliance. Mechanically sound and still a joy to operate, this movement marks a turning point in watchmaking history.

Refined Details & Handmade Craft

Completing the package is a hand-stitched leather strap, crafted in Belgium with care and intention. It adds an earthy, artisanal feel that pairs beautifully with the watch’s vintage heritage, and ensures comfortable, elegant wearability.

Key Details:

  • Reference: A386 MK1 (1969)

  • Movement: Zenith Cal. 3019PHC, Automatic, 36,000vph

  • Case Size: 38mm

  • Case Material: Stainless Steel, Polished

  • Dial: Original Tri-Color with Light Patina

  • Crown: Signed Zenith

  • Crystal: Domed Acrylic

  • Strap: Handmade Leather, Belgium

  • Condition: Excellent vintage condition; original dial with patina, polished case, authentic crown

Why This Watch?

The Zenith El Primero A386 MK1 is a cornerstone of the chronograph world—a pioneering automatic movement housed in a design that has stood the test of time. With its lightly patinated original dial, high-frequency calibre, and roots that connect directly to Rolex’s Daytona lineage, this watch offers unmatched heritage and technical prestige.

A true collector's chronograph, it embodies the spirit of 1960s innovation and style. Reach out for more details or to schedule a viewing—this is a rare and meaningful opportunity.

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Exchange/Return Notes
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SKU: 48426227163

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K
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kgs
Draper, US
★★★★★ 5
Best disco ball!
Had the old version of these balls that had batteries you actually replaced. This one is much better because you plug it in. My dog always loved this ball, because it's soft enough that she can take it in her mouth. And I love the color change. I got one for my daughter and her dog too, because I knew he loved them too.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 17, 2026
J
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J. Koller
Houston, US
★★★★★ 1
Issues still persist even with the new rechargable version.
Nite Ize just can't get this figured out. This ball is by far my dogs favorite ball. We play ball daily, and when we don't get in a ball session during the day, we pull one of these out after dark. The problem persists even on the new rechargeable design. They just don't last. With the old battery operated version we just knew we would spend the 25 or so dollars each month to purchase a new one as the light mechanism would fail. When they updated to the rechargeable version I was ecstatic to try it. I bought one and it lasted an entire month before we lost it over a fence. I purchased a replacement thinking that Nite Ize finally figured out the design. I was wrong, this one lasted for about 6 or 7 evenings of ball fetching and stopped working. Just a disappointment that they can't get this issue solved.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2025
C
Verified Purchase
Chris Aultman
Lake Worth, US
★★★★★ 5
Doggy and Daddy like the pretty lights
My dog loves this ball! So do his friends. He's not much of a ball guy during the day, but loses his mind with this ball. And I like it because the pretty changy colors agree with my edibles. Very durable and the charge seems to last at least five hours.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 23, 2025
J
Verified Purchase
Jiggs
Port Orchard, US
★★★★★ 5
Charging does take some time.......
Works equivalent to as they may.....
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Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2026
M
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M
Waukegan, US
★★★★★ 4
My dog loves them
Love them but wish they were a bit more durable. The bounce high, fit the thrower and they don’t weight too much. A little steep on price but the dog loves them
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Reviewed in the United States on May 24, 2026

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