Zenith - A renewed heritage
Named "the first" as a symbol of its precedence, its primacy and its universality, the original El Primero chronograph movement is an innovative masterpiece that has since become a benchmark in its field. Having subtly evolved over the years while retaining its signature characteristics, it now appears as an El Primero 469 calibre that is showcased to striking effect in the Collection New Vintage 69, reflecting a vintage model now endowed with a decidedly contemporary touch.
Its balance oscillating at the extraordinary speed of 36,000 vibrations per hour enables this unique movement to ensure 1/10th of a second accuracy. The fully integrated movement design takes up a minimum of space while guaranteeing reliable and precise measurement of short times. The entire 'orchestra' of 278 strategically positioned and finely tuned components is governed by a prestigious 'conductor' in the shape of a column wheel coordinating orders transmitted via the push-buttons. The oscillating weight adorned with Côtes de Geneve can be viewed through the transparent sapphire crystal fitted in the case-back of the New Vintage 69 model.
The distinctive lines of the original case have been redesigned to create an even more powerful, clean-cut effect. The double glareproofed sapphire crystal ensures an optimal view of the shiny plain black dial graced with applied hand-fitted hour-markers coated with Superluminova, as well as the black beadblasted hands with white Superluminova. The use of this luminescent substance, along with a clever play on contrasting colours, serves to ensure excellent legibility in all circumstances.
The central hour and minute hands are complemented by small seconds on a subdial at 9 o'clock and a date window at 4.30, while the chronograph functions comprise a central seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour counters at 3 and 6 o'clock respectively, as well as a tachometric scale around the dial rim serving to measure the speed of travel. This sophisticated timekeeping instrument is teamed with an elegant strap in black alligator leather complete with stainless steel pin buckle.
Embodying the finest horological accomplishments expressed through invigorated styling, the New Vintage 69 Collection is indeed an eloquent symbol of enduring excellence.