The house of Zenith has just introduced its legendary El Primero chronograph in two striking black and white variations. The dynamic pair, named the El Primero 36’000 VPH Perfect Duality is distinguished by its intense black ceramicized cases, chiaroscure three-counter dial, and its sporty black perforated rubber straps. The new couple with black on white, or white on black watch faces, stays true to El Primero's recognizable design. Its three counters symbolize the functionality of a sophisticated mechanism.
Black toned dial with silver counters
reference: 24.2041.400/21.R576
This time, the El Primero is offered in a particularly sophisticated duo, with two chiaroscuro interpretations. Its counters - originally in anthracite, blue and light grey – now provide the unique „visual opposites“effect against a sunray-patterned ebony black or silver-toned backdrop. The dial is accentuated by the black luminescent faceted hour-markers and hands with vibrant red highlights.
Their bold black cases, measuring 42 mm in diameter, are made from ceramicized aluminum fitted with transparent sapphire crystals with anti-reflective treatment on both sides. Each of the cases accommodates El Primero 400 B automatic certified chronometer movement, which oscillates at an ultra-high frequency of 36,600 vibrations per hour.
Silver toned dial with black counters
reference: 24.2041.400/01.R576
Beating at 5Hz and powering a tenth-of-second display, the El Primero 400B calibre drives central hours and minutes functions, small seconds, chronograph and date, while ensuring a more than 50-hour power reserve. The movement, and especially its oscillating weight adorned with Zenith's star insignia, may be admired through the sapphire crystal back of the 100m water-resistant case.
In both of its iterations, the El Primero 36’000 VPH arrives with a sporty black rubber strap, and it retails at $8600 USD.
Photos and press materials courtesy of Zenith Watches.
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