ZENITH | EL PRIMERO, REF G583YELLOW GOLD CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH DATE CIRCA 1971

Dial: silveredCalibre: cal. 3019 PHC automatic, 31 jewelsCase: 18k yellow gold, snap-on backCase number: 0'09E'047Dimensions: 38 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: none

MVT: is running at the time of cataloguing, the date advancing and the chronograph functioning. CASE: in great condition with very sharp lugs, crisp numbers and hallmarks, as well as with what appears to be the original factory sticker on the back. There is fine oxidation throughout, a sign that the watch was likely stored away in a safe for most of its life. There is only very minimal surface wear discernible. DIAL: in great condition with minimal surface blemishes visible when very closely examining the dial. The lume plots have all aged nicely and uniformly, reacting evenly under UV light and fading right after exposure. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Zenith began the development of its automatic chronograph in 1962 and planned to launch it for the 1965 centennial. However, the project was suspended and it was not until December 1968 that Zenith had its first prototypes. Announced in January 1969, Zenith housed the first incorporated automatic chronograph movement named El Primero. The present lot is one of three very early (1969-71) El Primero references produced in gold. According to our research, around 1200 pieces were produced in gold, perhaps the G583 is the simplest and most elegant of them all.

Offered in a remarkable condition with 'zapon' on the back case and tarnishing on the gold, this timepiece comes in an almost mint condition.