Why This Watch Matters

The Zenith reference A278 was launched just before the automatic El Primero, and came with a great manual-wound caliber and a nice reverse panda dial.

The Full Story

Zenith might be primarily remembered for its groundbreaking El Primero, but it made very nice chronographs even before, as evidenced by the reference A278 here. This two-register chrono relies on the 146-DP caliber, which was based on the same Martel ebauche used by Universal Genève. Its 37mm case was fairly big for the time, and it was offered with a Gay Freres bracelet, which was later found on some El Primero chronographs as well. The reverse panda dial is just the cherry on the cake.

The Fine Print

Maker: Zenith
Model: Chronograph
Reference: A278
Year: Late 1960s
Case No: 8858259
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 37mm diameter; 12mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Manual-wound chronograph caliber 146-DP
Bracelet/Strap: Original Gay Frères bracelet with hollow links and extension diver in the clasp, ZB endlinks
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

The 37mm case is in great condition, despite some scuffs on the case bands. It still shows sharp engravings on the caseback, including the serial number. The reverse panda dial has aged well, and only presents minor aging marks in the minute counter. The Gay Frères bracelet is original to the watch, with its characteristic hollow links and the signed clasp, which hides a diver extension (although the watch was only rated waterproof to 50 meters). Note that the crown was replaced at some point with an unsigned part. This is a great vintage Zenith that looks even better on the wrist.