Zenith A384 Revival El Primero: A Collector's Evolving Appreciation

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin) · 2020-10-26T04:57:40Z

Explore jrwong23's journey to acquiring the Zenith A384 Revival El Primero. Discover how numerous reissues shaped his appreciation for this iconic chronograph.

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

WPS member · Zenith forum

26 replies4228 views5 photos

Robin (jrwong23) shares his journey to acquiring the Zenith A384 Revival El Primero, a watch he initially hesitated on due to its case shape and the proliferation of special editions. His post delves into how Zenith's consistent reissues ultimately helped him appreciate the iconic design, leading to his decision to add the original Revival to his collection. This piece offers valuable insight into a collector's evolving perspective on modern reissues and their impact on appreciating historical references.

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Seeing so many nice El Primeros on this forum made me think about this legendary calibre over the years.

I have always wanted to get a Zenith El Primero watch over the years but somehow never managed to add one to my collection. Wasn’t sure I would like the Chronomaster with the Tri color dials (considered the 38mm version before).

Then the A384 revival last year got to me. For some reason I didn’t bite last year - I wasn’t sure I would like the case shape. And over the past 12 months I saw more and more new editions of the A384 from the Bamford to Covergirl to Lupin (and now Lupin 2nd edition), Shadow, North America edition etc. I like them but I initially felt Zenith was milking this reference a tad too much.

Interestingly , though I still feel this way on the milking part, the editions after editions of the A384 actually helped me get used to the case shape and grew to like it. When the Shadow was released , I thought that was the one ! But when I saw this Revival A384 (remake of the original A384) again, I thought this one is even more special despite it being the first version. The initial love I had for it is reignited

So here I am with this new watch. Just got it today from my AD. Some pics to share. Changed to a brown strap. Considering the vintage inspired “ladder” bracelet but not sure I will like the large gaps so using straps for now

Cheers

Robin

About the Zenith El Primero Ref. A384

The Zenith El Primero reference A384 is notable for being among the earliest models to house the brand's high-frequency automatic chronograph movement. Introduced in 1969, it presented a distinctive aesthetic that set it apart from many of its contemporaries, characterized by its tonneau-shaped case and a dial layout that became a signature for the El Primero line. This reference is recognized for its historical significance in the development of automatic chronographs.

The A384 features a stainless steel case, measuring 37mm in diameter. It is powered by the Zenith El Primero caliber 3019 PHC, an integrated automatic column-wheel chronograph movement operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, providing a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. The watch typically utilized an acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage appeal and period-correct specifications.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in the foundational pieces of the El Primero series and early automatic chronographs. Its design, while unique, is a clear precursor to later El Primero models, making it a key piece for understanding the evolution of the line. The A384 is valued for its originality and its place in watchmaking history.

Specifications

Caliber: El Primero 3019 PHC

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 37mm

Dial: White with black subdials

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The continuous stream of A384 reissues, while initially perceived as excessive, can actually help collectors grow accustomed to and appreciate the unique case shape over time.
Despite the numerous reissues, the A384 models generally maintain good value and are produced in relatively low numbers, making them appealing to collectors.
Zenith's strategy of releasing many editions of a popular reference is seen by some as a deliberate plan, similar to tactics used by other brands, and is not necessarily a negative for collectors.
While newer variations like the A384 Shadow are tempting, the traditional interpretation of the A384 Revival is often considered a more enduring and classic choice for long-term ownership.
The El Primero caliber, visible through a sapphire case back, represents the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking and is a significant draw for collectors of the A384.

The Discussion

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Oct 26, 2020

congrats, love the combo with the brown strap [nt]

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

Oct 26, 2020

Thank you ! I prefer brown straps too :) [nt]

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Oct 26, 2020

Especially with your shirt! 👏 [nt]

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

Oct 26, 2020

Haha thank you :)

I often choose shirts for the watches :p

kev09

Oct 26, 2020

Congratulations. It looks great on your wrist. Regards Kev. [nt]

MichaelC

Oct 26, 2020

Congrats Robin, looks great on you!

Zenith is executing these nicely. I'm not worried about the many editions. Zenith has the JCB playbook fro Hublot and Tag, this is part of the plan. I am in the minority in that I am not offended by the many versions. Pick the one that calls to you and enjoy