1969 was a year of milestones, not only was it the year that America won the space race with Russia, and the first step on the moon by mankind, it was also the celebration of a breakthrough in watchmaking. El Primero by Zenith, taking translation “the first” in Spanish, is the premier of the world’s first serially-made self-winding chronograph movement. Truly revolutionary and operated at a high frequency of 36,000 VPH, the El Primero launched in 1969 changed the phase of chronographs of the mid-20th century with its announcement on January 10th of the very year. Fitted into Zenith stainless steel references A384, A385 and A386 during that time, the A384 with an angular tonneau cased in 37mm was the very model to be presented on the advertisements of the new movement. Famed for its dramatic turn during the 1970’s with the arrival of the quartz crisis, the equipment and tools of the El Primero stored in the warehouse in LeLocle, Switzerland were set to be destroyed. With a heroic act of a passionate watchmaker, Charles Vermot in disagreement to the decision by the company managed to hid all 150 presses along with blueprints and tools in the attic during the midst of the night. When Zenith won the contract to produce the ébauche for the upcoming automatic Rolex Daytona based on the existence of leftover assembled movements, Vermot was instrumental in the re-uncovering of the methods to produce the El Primero.

An inspirational story of passion, Zenith celebrated the 50th anniversary of the El Primero in 2019. Paying homage to the brand’s greatest movement, Zenith released revival editions of two of their most beloved models, the A386 and A384. Part of the revival editions, the present Chronomaster Revival Liberty was introduced exclusively to the North American market as a limited edition of 150 pieces only. Taking cues from the patriotic flag of the country with red and white stripes, the Liberty is finished with an attractive vignette blue dial that stands out from the collection. An exceptionally faithful recreation, the Liberty and the original A384 from 1969 has the case design that is identical to its blueprints. Furthermore, the appreciation of the attention of details can be seen on the 4:30 aperture of the date wheel, as well as the period correct typograph such as the flat A and 4 on the dial.

With enhancement of modernity, an upgrade of the sapphire crystal as oppose to the acrylic, as well as the display caseback showcasing the new El Primero cal. 400 movement. Beating at 5Hz frequency boasting a power reserve of 50 hours with improved precision and water resistance. Offered by the original owner and kept in mint condition, the present revival Liberty of the brand’s favourite vintage model is certainly a blend of the best of both worlds.