Zenith El Primero Calibre 410 Re-Edition
Review

Zenith El Primero Calibre 410 Re-Edition

By nilomis · Jan 6, 2014 · 14 replies
nilomis
WPS member · Zenith forum
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Nilomis celebrates the Zenith El Primero Calibre 410, praising it as a proper re-edition that successfully modernizes the classic design without resorting to 'faux' vintage styling. The author highlights the new 42mm case size and improved legibility as significant enhancements over the older version, which he found too small and difficult to read.

Team,

Zenith just announced the "El Primero 410" (click here to see the announcement) and this watch makes me very happy for one great reason.




It's not a plain re edition and Zenith didn't made any attempt to create a "faux" vintage styled one.

What Zenith did was to bring to modern times the case (42mm, thank you) and the El Primero movement.

The end result is a very desirable chronograph with full calendar with Moon phase that surpasses the old version on many areas, including the legibility.

Just as a reference, let's see the old version that I had but I let it go for two reasons: It was small (for today's standards) and the legibility was terrible.

The picture do not show how hard it was to check time. The hour/minute hands mixed with all other and to my old eyes it was hard to read the time.




Another point, please notice that my wrist is not that big, was that the old version lacked "presence" on my wrist.

Kudos to Zenith for the new 410 and let's wait an see what more beauties Zenith has for 2014.

Cheers,

Nilo


About the Zenith El Primero Ref. Zenith410

The Zenith El Primero 410 is a distinguished chronograph model that integrates a complete calendar and moon phase complication into the renowned El Primero movement. This reference showcases Zenith's capability in combining complex functions with a high-frequency caliber. It is positioned as a sophisticated offering within the El Primero collection, appealing to collectors seeking both technical prowess and classical aesthetics.

This timepiece is typically housed in a stainless steel or precious metal case, often measuring around 42mm in diameter. It features the automatic El Primero Caliber 410, which beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz) and provides a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. The dial layout is intricate yet balanced, displaying chronograph counters, day, date, month, and moon phase indicators. The movement is visible through a sapphire case back.

The El Primero 410 is highly regarded by collectors for its comprehensive suite of complications and the robust, high-performance El Primero base movement. Its blend of chronograph functionality with a full calendar and moon phase makes it a versatile and mechanically interesting piece. The model's design often draws from vintage Zenith aesthetics, contributing to its enduring appeal.

Specifications

Caliber
El Primero Caliber 410
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
42mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
GE
gensiulia
Jan 6, 2014

...to my eyes it seems to have the 3 registers too much close the center of the dial. thanks very much for this post, but i have to say i don't like it so much. best regards, chris

MA
massi.
Jan 6, 2014

This type of watch has fascinated me for many years, since I began to love the watches... so this model breaks through an open door! I agree with Chris about the subdial... Maybe one day Zenith (and many other brands!) will manage also the movement diameter and not only the case! Said that, I hope to see it in metal as soon as possible: I wonder if there will be other dial colors... Thank you for the picture, Nilo

NI
nilomis
Jan 6, 2014

After all it's only an increase of 3mm on the diameter. Cheers, Nilo

NI
nilomis
Jan 6, 2014

I agree that Zenith should come with an El Primero Version 2.0 but I'm very fine with this 410. Cheers, Nilo

MA
Marcus Hanke
Jan 6, 2014

I, too, loved the "original" Chronomaster version shown in the picture, but always wondered why Zenith decided not to offer a 410 with a "Class 4" design and luminous hands that could be really seen all the time, instead of the practically useless faceted Chronomaster hands. So many people bought the Chronomaster because of its movement and beauty, only to sell it after a while because it was impossible to read the time. The problem persisted on the silver faced versions, too, but was worse with

NI
nilomis
Jan 6, 2014

I agree, in part with the case design but after I saw my watchmaker removing the movement of my late Chronomaster, I believe that he will approve this new design. I don't agree with the Omega comparison. If it was an Omega design it should have those twisted lugs that are nice but got boring after being used and abused on almost all models of the entire line. Cheers, Nilo

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