In Basel in 2009, Zenith presented the 69 New Vintage as a tribute to the 40 years of the automatic chronometer, the El Primero. One year later, it is a whole range, both classical and modern that has been presented, such as this EP 36000 VPH.

 

A watch that reveals the new collection

This watch reveals the new collection, more tightened and focused on classics models and leaning on values that turn this brand into a success.

The shape of the steel case or moreover the disposition of the intertwined sub-dials are inspired by the A386, released 40 years ago.
But this watch shows a real personality, both elegant and subtle thanks to some silver finishing, brushed, bright, or some grey-blue strokes nicely spread.

 

A both elegant and subtle watch

The silver is reserved to the satiny dial, giving changing impressions according on the lightning. The brushed aspect is used to circle the periphery of the dial and the sub-dials, emphasizing the scales and the tachometer.
Concerning the looks of the dial, it is enhanced with some painted elements, such as the blue second hand or the sectors of the sub dials.

The hands and the markers are designed on the same principles, alternating the bright rhodium plated parts, the luminova zones and the black painted areas.

Finally, the writings, the Zenith logo and the date make their way on the dial while strengthening its balance. And the whole is protected by a developed sapphire, rounded, beveled angled and anti-reflect treated on both faces.

The combination of all these elements allows an excellent readability thanks to the big opening of the dial and a very good contrast. Furthermore, its looks and proportions make this watch a very multitask watch.

 

The movement

On the other side of the watch, a sapphire bottom allows to glimpse on the caliber, the El Primero 400B.

If it has undergone only few changes since 40 years, it still keeps very interesting characteristics : 36000 vibrations per hours, making the trotteuse of the chronograph very fluid ; a power reserve of more than 50 hours ; a quick date leap as well as an oscillating weight, engraved and framed with the star of the brand.

The architecture of the movement enables to see, through the sapphire bottom, the interesting elements of this beautiful mechanism.
Such as the column wheel, the lateral gear, the balance or the nicely executed finishing.

 

Finally, let's underline that the movement is certified chronometer by the COSC.

 

Conclusion

Among other novelties such as the Striking Tenth or the Retrotimer, this 36000 VPH plays the role of wisdom and classism, avoiding dullness and déjà-vu.
It is a great success, both in its conception and its manufacture.

This model is also available on a rubber strap (retail price France = 5600 €) or on a steel strap (retail price France = 6400 €).

 

The + :

• the El Primero movement
• the very meticulous manufacture
• the readability

 

The – :

• some slight flaws of the El Primero, such as the little leap at the starting up, the steep assemble and the absence of stop seconds.
• the smallest wrist wished it had been 40mm instead of 42,5mm

 

Further information :

• tester's wrist size = 17,5 cm