The movement inside is based on the incredible El Primero dating back to 1969 when it debuted as the first wristwatch calibre with both automatic winding and chronograph functions. For the 4021 version of it, the list of features is extended by another – really useful – addition. A power reserve indicator located on the dial at the six o’clock position. The ‘reserve de marche’ is approximately 50 hours which isn’t normally something to write home about but in this case you need to remember that as a 5hz movement, it uses a lot more power.

The movement has not been modified for the sake of this limited edition. It still consists of 248 parts including Zenith’s skeletonised rotor with the star logo in the middle, suspended on ball bearings for sufficient winding. Not that it needed any alterations, the El Primero has long been acknowledged as one of the most reliable and accurate automatic chronographs.

By now we have looked at nearly all but one vital factor, the price. Each of these pieces will be priced at £6,750 (about 10,300 USD calculated with the current exchange rate). Is that slightly (about 10%) more than the MSRP of the model it is based on? Yes, and while no major structural changes have been made, I firmly believe that the recognizable and unique blue dial and the extremely limited production run will easily make up for the difference over time, when it comes to actual resale value. Again, these ten pieces will be available only from The Watch Gallery starting from the 2nd of August and I do have a feeling that all ten will be sold out soon. zenith-watches.com thewatchgallery.co.uk

Tech Specs

10-piece limited edition
Reference: 03.2082.4021/22.C734
Case: 42.00 mm in stainless steel
Crystal: sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Case-back: sapphire crystal
Movement: El Primero 4021 automatic chronograph
Frequency: 36,000 a/h (5hz)
Power reserve: ~50 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, 30 minute chronograph, power reserve
Strap: Black alligator strap with blue stitching
Price: £6,750