El Primero Espada

The Story

Introduced as a more refined, everyday expression of Zenith’s legendary high-frequency technology, the El Primero Espada distils the brand’s technical prowess into a clean, time-only format. While the El Primero name is most famously associated with chronographs, the Espada demonstrates the movement’s versatility, pairing 36,000 vph performance with elegant simplicity.

Characterised by its crisp dial layout, faceted applied indices, and slim stainless-steel case, the Espada was designed for precision and wearability rather than spectacle. The absence of complications allows the high-beat movement to take centre stage, delivering exceptional accuracy and a smooth, continuous seconds sweep rarely seen outside of elite horology.

Produced in relatively limited numbers and often overlooked in favour of chronograph references, the El Primero Espada has become increasingly appreciated by collectors who value understated design backed by serious mechanical pedigree.

✓ Independently authenticated prior to resale
✓ Inspected before dispatch

Specifications

Brand: Zenith
Model: El Primero Espada
Year: Late 1990s – early 2000s
Movement: Automatic (El Primero, high-frequency 36,000 vph)
Case: Stainless steel
Case size: Approximately 40 mm
Bracelet: Stainless steel
Water resistance: 100 m
Dial: Silver with applied baton indices
Condition: Pre-owned, very good

Collector’s Note

The El Primero Espada is a connoisseur’s choice within the Zenith catalogue. By stripping the El Primero platform back to its essentials, this reference highlights the movement’s inherent accuracy, reliability, and technical sophistication without distraction.

Its balanced proportions and clean aesthetic make it exceptionally versatile, equally suited to daily wear or a more considered collection focused on movement significance rather than complication count. The smooth sweep of the seconds hand, driven by the 36,000 vph calibre, remains a subtle but constant reminder of what sets this watch apart.

As collectors increasingly gravitate toward historically important movements in understated configurations, well-preserved Espada references are becoming harder to find, particularly those retaining original dials, sharp case lines, and factory bracelet configurations.

Authenticity & Condition

All watches are independently authenticated prior to resale and inspected to confirm originality of the case, dial, movement, and reference details.

Condition is described as accurately as possible, with any notable signs of wear clearly disclosed. Authentication documentation is included where applicable.

Shipping & Returns

Secure, insured, and fully tracked shipping.
Carefully packaged and dispatched promptly.

Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery in accordance with UK consumer law. Items must be returned in the same condition as supplied, with any authentication tags or documentation intact. Returns may be refused if authentication tags have been removed, altered, or damaged.