Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. Zenith x Bamford x MR PORTER El Primero Revival A384 “Edge of Space”
An exclusive limited edition with a look that looks like nothing else before...
As you have probably seen (if you’re into watches, you must have seen it), this year was the 50th anniversary of one of the most legendary movements ever, the El Primero – one of the first automatic chronographs launched. This has meant multiple re-editions and limited editions based on this movement, from faithful revival watches to more “special” takes on this watch. Having already collaborated last year on the cult chronograph, Zenith, Bamford and MR PORTER are doing it again this year with a surprising (or any word you want) take on the vintage A384 watch. Meet the El Primero Revival A384 “Edge of Space”.
While the first collaborative watch launched by Zenith x Bamford for MR PORTER was already quite unique in terms of design, with its gradient blue dial punctuated by white marking radiating at its periphery (something that is Bamford’s signature touch), this new take goes several steps further in terms of customisation. It’s not just a dial, but the entire habillage of the watch that has been treated the Bamford way. And this means a love-or-hate kind of watch.
The “Edge of Space” limited edition is based on the Zenith El Primero Revival A384 launched earlier this year, as a faithful re-edition of one of the earliest watches to be equipped with the hi-frequency automatic chronograph El Primero. The A384 reintroduced the exact same case, dial and bracelet as the original watch and, on the contrary to the A386 re-edition, isn’t a limited edition. The main specificity of this model is its cushion-shaped case, measuring a reasonable 37mm and featuring integrated lugs.
Now… for the Bamford touch that makes it very, very different. The case of the El Primero Revival A384 “Edge of Space” is crafted in titanium and then receives a micro-blasted finishing and dark grey treatment. Entirely matte – crown, pushers and case back included – it drastically changes the look of this watch and makes it outstanding and modern.
The dial of this Zenith x Bamford x MR PORTER limited edition is also unique to this A384 “Edge of Space” watch. Presented in blue with black sub-counters, it is framed by a tachymeter scale and is punctuated by small luminous dots. Overall, a minimalistic take on the El Primero watch. A date complication is positioned at 4h30. The watch is worn on a dark blue “Cordura effect” strap and white stitching.
Inside the case is the calibre El Primero 400, a slightly modernised take on the original 1969 movement. This integrated, automatic chronograph with column wheel and horizontal clutch is well-known for its high frequency of 5Hz. It is visible through a sapphire case back and shows classic decoration.
Price and availability
The Zenith x Bamford x MR PORTER El Primero Revival A384 “Edge of Space” is a limited edition of 50 pieces, available only through MR PORTER, as of 18 November 2019. It will be priced at EUR 8,900 – USD 8,600 – GPB 7,200. More details at www.zenith-watches.com.
