The Zenith El Primero movement, specifically the Calibre 3019PHC, was unlike any other chronograph movement when it was released. On January 10th, 1969, Zenith introduced the world's first automatic chronograph caliber the 3019PHC El Primero beating out the Seiko 6139 movement and the Chronomatic group consisting of Breitling, Heuer, Hamilton, and Büren in the competition to build the first automatic chronograph.

The elusive Zenith El Primero Sub Sea Pilot ref. 01-0190-415 is one of the rarest creations from the Zenith brand. Released in a few variations: the “diver bezel” which counts for elapse minutes, with about 1000 pieces made, and the “pilot bezel” used for tracking a second timezone, with about 800 pieces made. These large multifunctional chronographs also close out the cal. 3019PHC era and feature a large 44mm case and robust “lobster tail” bracelets.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The large case is believed to remain unpolished, displaying strong factory sunburst finishing and angles with light signs of use. The original bakelite bezel is exceptionally well preserved with no cracks or major signs of use. The case retains its original Zenith signed screw-down crown and pump pushers. The watch comes supplied on its original Zenith 1174 "lobster tail" flip-lock bracelet with ZR end pieces.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial is in excellent vintage condition, showing appropriate signs of age and no major blemishes. The markers of the dial have been cleaned of their tritium material and remain bright white. The tritium lumed hands have aged to a dark coloration, under U.V. light inspection the hour and minute hands retain original tritium, the blue chronograph hand has been professionally restored with tritium lume. The 3 o'clock and 6 o'clock sub-dial hands have been repainted in the watches past, the 9 o'clock hand retains its original paint.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly previous service history is unknown.