My Grail Zenith A384 Primero + Why it's a Forgotten Legend? (Review)

[@ID-Guy]

Link to the Watchonista Article - Secrets of the El Primero: www.watchonista.com/articles/depth/depth-secrets-legendary-zenith-el-primero

[@ajgross67]

You are the one KZbinr that every time you post a video about a watch you bought it just really makes me want to own that watch. I can just hear your enthusiasm coming through about how special each purchase is to you. I’m still saving for an FXD, a watch that your video is a big part of what brought it to my eye and has stayed at the forefront of my consciousness for the last 2 years

[@PeterKotsa]

Sounds like your heart was telling you something and you had the good sense to listen. Thats not only stunning on so many levels, but also a great deal.. Also very impressive match up with that Omega Nato...I didn't expect anything less from you Well done brother and thanks for sharing 🥃

[@ID-Guy]

Ah Pete, you gent. Thank you. We have similar bizarre obsessions. Every video I grab of yours I think "yeah, he gets it" 😉Have a super end to your weekend! 🥃

[@notgoodyear7072]

I was so obsessed with the design of this model so I bought 3. the a384 50th anniv, the cover girl and the liberty. people should pay attention to zenith, in the last 4, 5 years they have changed completely the image and made great watches with great design. i absolutely love my a384.

[@ID-Guy]

Absoutely brilliant! Genuinely wish I could add a few more after this amazing experience (never thought I'd daily wear an El Primero) 😉

[@craigbagels]

Almost 2 years ago I was searching for a watch with a red white and blue color scheme. I stumbled upon the A384 Liberty Edition and I was smitten immediately. Google search after google search and I kept coming up empty. Only 150 were made. I sent emails all over the place and a few months later I received an email from a salesperson in NYC. He happened to have one NOS. I didn’t care that it was retail because I loved it. He was actually able to give me a nice discount so I also ordered the ladder bracelet. I too have struggled to find the perfect strap but I just love the watch. So glad you did this video. I so enjoy all of your videos. Keep up the amazing work. As a side note my German Shepherd also loved the watch because he ate the original strap. I was able to get a new one from Zenith. 😂

[@juice7546]

Hey buddy, I’m the owner of 145/150. It’s a great watch.

[@fredo1070]

I've always loved that watch, its case shape, its case size. It is the embodiment of what a 1960s chronograph should be.

[@ID-Guy]

Strange how at first it looks quite typical (as a panda dial goes) but then somehow gets more interesting - the A3*** cases are so killer... boxy, tonneau shaped. To think how designs are leaning more towards 70's elements nowadays, it's a fascinating "case" study 😉 Thanks for this Fredo! 🥃

[@mgb1971]

I love the watch but not a fan of the Nato strap. To me, the Nato looks bulky and takes away from the design angles of the case. A tapered strap, in my opinion, is the way to go.

[@BenMwatches]

Love the 384 it’s gorgeous, I own a 386 and couldn’t be happier. Zenith is just amazing

[@mystgicus]

Here’s my first reply from a long term follower. Really enjoyed this video and all your previous ones mate. I feel your frustration on finding the one perfect strap too. I have the A3818 revival and have been struggling to find the right strap and finally settled on a teal crocodile strap, which is quirky and matches the azure dial in a strange way. I really enjoy your watch content from a designer’s perspective, do keep these videos coming!

[@AbdulRWatches]

The nato makes it even so much better, I think they are so underrated. Great video brother 🙏🏽

[@Ryan-pu9yw]

No youtuber has more appreciation for watch history than ID Guy. Killer video!

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you Ryan 😉 I do love their backgrounds... how that design, time period and history intersect. AH! I'll never get enough of it! Appreciate the love brother, thank you again 🥃

[@egutzait]

I love that specific El Primero but on the ladder bracelet, it's on my wish list. Just and absolutely handsome timepiece. Wear in good health and enjoy!

[@ID-Guy]

Keep your eyes peeled for them! The bracelets seem rare as hens teeth to find second hand SO try and grab one on bracelet and thank you brother! It's been with me for about 7 months and the honeymoon is still far from over 😉

[@anamisidro8453]

My next watch for sure. After getting the explorer 36mm this is the only luxury watch I still want. Thanks for the video

[@edipisreks5535]

It has never even occurred to me to put a deployant on a NATO. It’s a good idea!

[@ID-Guy]

I've had too many concussions in my life, clearly 😉

[@Up-Armored-G-Shock]

I’d love to know the manufacturer of the clasp you prefer for NATOs. Cheers!

[@marthaholland3251]

I love this look so much! What is your preferred clasp for NATO straps?

[@Up-Armored-G-Shock]

That deployant clasp is Zenith, too. There’s nothing else like it out there right now.

[@williamm7851]

Just received mine today. Bought it without trying it before so was a bit worried in case the magic didn't happen... But obviously it did! It's just perfect! I owned a long time ago an El Primero chronograph but this one just has a unique character. This one will not leave my collection that's for sure. Now on a quest for the perfect rally strap to go with it!

[@lrbrown]

What a watch! Congratulations on the acquisition!

[@VictorAdameArt]

I had this watch and recently sold it, I fell in love with the movement and history but can't say the same for the looks and versatility.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Buy new glasses. It looks fabulous and it's chronograph. It doesn't get better than that.

[@ipolendo]

Not all decisions are made logically or within reason. Sometimes "when you know, you know". That has to be the one. Congrats on finding your chosen one. Beautiful watch.

[@Valera_Scotland]

Just watched the vid. Congratulations my man! It is a stunner. I love the tachymeter being under the crystal, the stunning brushed case, the original design. Its all there. Just an absolutely stunning watch....i like that you go with your own desires, and don't jump on the hype train. I'm so glad that this watch does not have the Daytona hype around it. Just like my Mark 16, we have both benefited from the Rolex hype, by having access to watches that to me are much more interesting than yet another golden crown

[@LaFritePerreGoat]

We waited so long for this video. Enjoy my friend. 🎉

[@ID-Guy]

I hope it was fairly decent, brother. One thing about me... really don't enjoy talking about myself - especially around watch contexts (so it always feels a bit awkward doing it 🥃)

[@nickolasmazzara127]

Zenith is one of my favorite manufacturers! The A384 is a watch I have my eyes on. I'm a fan of the iconic tricolor sub-dials, but the case and dial of the A384 appeal to me in a certain type of way. I'm a big fan of their more "quirky" models too, and I would love to get a hold of an Espada or a Rainbow Flyback with the "mango" dial.

[@amickinflorida9008]

I have been sprooking the El Primero for years. I bought my first in an unwanted solid 18k gold Ebel 1911 for a song. Now the prices are up and the watch is hard to find. You example is stunning. And I highly recommend the movement.

[@joker14n]

Zenith is such an interesting brand. They’re quirky and wonderful in their commitment to the designs of the past. Im curious if you’re at all interested in the bracelet for yours? It’s always fun to watch someone getting so much enjoyment out of finding something special. Great video 👍

[@ID-Guy]

I was contemplating the bracelet for a while but honestly, the last few years have seen me migrate away from bracelets and stick more to straps (also not much of a fan of stamped clasps) BUT that said... Rolex... Modern Rolex... that will never leave its bracelet 😉Zenith continues to fascinate me... this lil A384 has been the catalyst to dig and man... there are still bargains to be found everywhere! Thanks for this Joker 🥃

[@waterfordrs22]

@@ID-GuyI’ve never been one for bracelets. I bought a preowned a385 for the same deal. Best deal I’ve ever made. It arrived with the ladder bracelet. I thought it would quickly be changed over to an alligator strap. Six months later, it’s still on the bracelet. It was a big surprise, completely cool, completely vintage. It’s simply period correct and that includes the stamped clasp. There’s the mantra that its best to buy a watch with the bracelet if for no other reason it’s easier should you go to get rid of it…. I don’t generally worry about that, but man these tonneau cased watches simply look great in them. These are perfectly proportioned, jewel like chronographs, nothing better, at best equaled. Enjoy. Very special watch, must be seen to be believed.

[@lv293]

You have some if not the best content on KZbin! I would love to see an ownership review on the BB54 and pros/cons and what you would change if any. Keep up the great work and can’t wait to see another great video!

[@ID-Guy]

Will absolutely cover the BB54 in a month or two (after nearly a year of ownership) - excellent idea! There's definitely one or two very, very minor things I'd want to see changed. Thank you for the compliment brother! 🥃

[@Supercruze]

Beautiful watch and strap pairing. Hope to add a Zenith to my collection one day. You are correct that these timepieces are under the radar for now.

[@RJCichocki]

I appreciate a hands on essay and original photography over using other's photos or recycling manufacture promotional material. You sound like a proud owner and looks sharp.

[@dingodave3966]

Dear Mr ID Guy, thread by thread by thread you seem to dissect the history and the watch. Beautiful piece there mate. Hats off to you. Congrats.

[@James_K_L]

You are making very difficult NOT to get one of these! I always greatly respect your insights on these little machines we love so much.

[@marcorenato1814]

Really enjoyed your story telling here, a great tribute to a watch with an amazing history. It's quirky design really allows for experimentation with different colored straps, a true 'strapmonster' in every sense of the word.

[@michaelfierman3256]

At last we get introduced! and well worth the wait. Congrats on the fantastic price first of all and I love that you concocted what looks to be a strap that brought it to life. That leather was a sad affair, and I love leather!. Continue wearing in great health my friend! 🥃

[@ID-Guy]

The price is what pushed me over the edge... it was one of those "no-brainers" - either an A384 or a Speedmaster FOIS (at 4k each)... I mean...hard choice 😉 Thank you so much Michael. It's one of those pieces where the story, price, design, history... makes it a keeper! And well said about the leather haha! It never gelled with me from day one... sadly 🥃

[@Thomas_Burnett]

Ahhh, the A384. We both have a love affair with this Watch. As you know, like you I found a perfect example on the secondary market for the same price as you. These really are overlooked Watches. I too have paired mine with a white strap. A white Python skin quick release strap. I have bought a few straps for mine. Leather quick release racing straps and classic plain leather straps with red stitching to match the second hand. I love this range of Watches. Like you say, the A385, the Shadow, the Chronomaster Original. All retro styled and doing what Zenith do best movement wise. Congratulations again on your awesome pickup boet. Great video as always ✊

[@Pentonavalsolutions]

El primero del primero!!!....My friend, I must say: it is a really serious collection you are building up. Congrats!

[@ID-Guy]

Really appreciate it brother, thank you! It's just tonnes and tonnes of luck 😉 But consolidating has been an amazing lesson. Freeing up a few slots and putting that effort into one piece, man, it makes a difference! 🥃

[@N_g_y]

Own a tropical a384 - Absolutely love it. Nothing to envy to watches 10x the price

[@joerauch7021]

Love love love my Liberty edition. Such a profoundly under-rated watch.

[@ID-Guy]

LOVE the Liberty... that chrono hand is just killer! Keep enjoying it Joe, you've got a gem on your hands 😉

[@KeepingWatchUK]

Congrats my friend. Always great to hear when a fellow watch enthusiast obtains his or her grail. Enjoy it 🍻

[@ID-Guy]

Really appreciate it brother and thank you! Truth be told the watch has been with me for what must 7ish months already AND it's still feeling just as fresh 😉 Like that lil Explorer39 action in your thumbnail 🥃

[@thedapperwrist5704]

Switching up straps and bracelets when possible is another hidden joy in watch collecting. Love your content!!

[@ID-Guy]

100% brother, I'm getting such a kick having less watches and a few more quality straps. Feels like 2x the amount of pieces 😉 Thank you for the comment 🥃

[@wescobts]

As always, another great video. I admire you for walking the path that "you" choose to walk. I have always appreciated the Zenith line of watches, and small amount of history that I know of. That is a smart looking watch and i have no doubt that it will serve you well to the end.

[@ID-Guy]

Really appreciate reading this and thank you! My choice in pieces (and combos) can be a bit all over the place, but maybe thats the "tweaker" in me... I'm always fiddling with something, trying to make it more bespoke / interesting. The Design world... it's just constant refining (not always for the better) 😉🥃

[@lamontjaxon1471]

@@ID-Guy YALL ON PLASTATION OR XBOX?

[@robertp5123]

You are absolutely correct….. Zenith is not an appreciated brand. I really do not understand why. The story and heritage is what makes me love this brand. I plan to acquire an El Primero soon. It will be my first. I look at the dial whether it’s a black or white one and I think it’s a stunning timepiece.

[@ID-Guy]

I'd put the Zenith right up there (beyond) my first watch - that Omega Seamaster 300 in the video. Build and quality beats Omega imo. You really can't go wrong AND there are plenty of bargains to be found! Good luck Robert and enjoy the hunt! 🥃

[@robcameron9351]

Beautiful. Great purchase! Zenith is way underrated on all fronts.

[@mochi95121]

it has been on my list for abt 2 yrs and as I clicked on this video i know its time to pull the trigger nice video hope you keep up the good work

[@Amplitudeproblem]

Congrats! I can relate to the agony of finding just the right strap for a watch. I have a compulsive need to make each watch my own, which doesn't seem to end at the point of purchase. I've sold a couple watches in the past because I just couldn't find the right pairing. Again, congratulations on such a fine watch!

[@ID-Guy]

Thank goodness I'm not the only one... the Zenith strap has been gnawing at me for months but man, what a feeling when it finally feels right! I've learnt a bit of trail and error AND going a bit mad makes all the difference 😉 Really appreciate this brother, thank you!

[@khronokraze]

Another brilliant review. Man, this is a grail of mine, too. Actively working to make it happen. It may take a bit longer to save up. But, it will happen. Congrats on a super fine pickup. This video will help maintain my focus to achieve a similar goal.

[@ID-Guy]

These A3*** models are around and keep your eyes peeled! It was a no-brainer situation... where it fell in my lap and it was either an A384 or a Speedie FOIS (both at the same price) was a very easy decision... Now that I think about it, these Primero's are right up your alley. Riding that fine line of balanced with some quirkiness 😉 Really appreciate it brother and thank you!

[@zumalot]

Beautiful Zenith. Every time I see an El Primero, I think back to easier times, but turned sicker times. I had to sell my blue Stratos flyback at a loss because cash flow was needed to pay medical bills. Amazing how hard it can be to obtain these timepieces, yet how easy things can change and you see those timepieces fly out the window to sharks. Oh well. Times are strange, but I'm still in the El Primero game cased in a gold toned Movado. She keeps excellent time with the only minus being the chrono seconds hand resting on the Movado's date at the top. That is one awesome Zenith you have there my friend.

[@alvinmick218]

I’ve never been into chronographs but after seeing and hearing about this Zenith, I can sense that changing!😂 That is one stunning piece and the fact that it seemingly goes unnoticed makes it all the more charming. Well done 🥃

[@jgo8305]

Wearing my 54 while watching this. The 54 is my only watch and my second is going to be a hesalite speedy but my god this video and you comparing the two made me doubt myself. Thing is absolutely incredible

[@danielharyanto6713]

Ive been wearing mine with red nubuck strap along with its original buckle. It suits very perfect

[@almeladze]

Amazing pairing with the strap! I looked at this version and at shadow. Also at brown fumee and though that if I were going to have it, the brown would be the one. But they felt very small... Congrats on the deal! For 50 off I'd probably get it regardless of what I said above. I own 3 Zeniths and hustling for the 4th one as we speak. Enjoy this amazing watch.

[@WMDZone]

Agree 100% The black strap doesn't work great but love you're nato strap! 🔥

[@ID-Guy]

Who wakes up one day and says "yes, white with a red stripe" 😆 Thank you brother! 🥃

[@y3n0]

You've already influenced me into getting the Longines Avigation Big Eye, and now this! This watch (the tri-color version) is definitely on my list! I currently have the Sugess homage version and it makes me desire the original a lot more!

[@ID-Guy]

If you can find an A3817... lucky! They're the most sought after I believe. BUT finding any Zenith under the A386 line is also stellar! Keep enjoying the hunt and enjoy your BigEye😉 I had to reluctantly let mine go to make space for the Zenith... and one other piece that I haven't shared yet...

[@y3n0]

@@ID-Guy ooh! any spoilers? is it another chronograph?

[@marcgirard7551]

Wonderful critique! Congratulations on this amazing watch and wear it in good health! I am a closet Zenith fan as well… dreaming of the day I can pick up a Chronomaster Original and wear it regularly and using it for fun stuff like timing my daughters swim laps. ID Guy greatness here as always!

[@antonylimbouris1992]

My brother we need to talk ! 1 - are you a saffa ? 2 - did you get the ladder bracelet ? 3 - I was always worried about the hands blending into the dial , how does it work I’m reality ? 4 - what a legend. Love the content.

[@gregwebb1107]

Wow, that watch is a stunner on the red & white NATO. Brilliant add to your collection. Great review!

[@ID-Guy]

Thanks for this Greg. Really went wild with this one 😆🥃

[@SolidCaseBack]

Loved the video, sir - bravo! It is strange that the El Primero hasn’t had its deserved props. I would imagine it comes down to the fact that Omega did their utmost to freeze every other Chronograph out of the market, and that perhaps even more famous than the El Primero is the El Primero movement. So it sort of has to compete with the other obvious brands, and itself. Either way, congrats to you on a wonderful addition to your collection!

[@vincentschneuwly9783]

Glad to see you are giving some love to that A384 👍great addition to anybody's collection congrats

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you for this Vincent. It's really a lil gem, blast from the past 🥃

[@vincentschneuwly9783]

@@ID-Guy it has everything: the shape, the dial, proportions and an absolutely wonderful caliber 😍

[@marcusrawlinson5024]

Congrat's for at last acquiring your El Primero it's beautiful.

[@arthurgraber]

My favorite is the lupin LE three did with the black and white split dial

[@ID-Guy]

Love their Lupins! Must say, I'm a fan of their L2, with the Black and gold elements if I remember? Stunning! 🥃

[@Degree_]

A grail of mine too 😍 but I think I would prefer it on the ladder bracelet

[@rodsalvador3608]

Congratulations! Late to the game on commenting, but I agree that it's a shame that Zenith is not more recognized by consumers. We need some celebrity endorsement or something to validate inherent beauty. That said, I'm kind of glad Newman and McQueen and Rindt chose other watches to wear. More delicious El Primeros for us!

[@altherr1957]

Congratulations on the watch. Its a great one 🙌

[@ID-Guy]

Really appreciate it brother. Thank you! 🥃

[@MrNickMulgrave]

Excellent purchase and excellent review...as always. I am extremely envious. The Zenith Primero -03.A384.400/385.M385 is the one I have on my shopping list.

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you Nick! It was one of those lucky moments (that happens once ever few years on my end 😆) BUT I'll say, keep your eyes peeled on these A3*** cased model collections, they're all so gorgeous...

[@Miginath]

There is definately a 70's racquet ball vibe to that deployant NATO strap. Looks a bit like one of the sweatbands you might see at the squash club. Banging watch though.

[@ID-Guy]

Love this 😆 Does give you that feeling & I need to grab a matching headband to complete the set! hahaha! 🥃

[@eric6177]

“A sense of freshness seeing the cold white and deep black” you would do excellent as a watch salesman

[@richardmarsden5159]

Like you I’ve loved this watch since 2019 it’s shape is unique as is the movement it’s been on my must buy list since I tried it on - hope it stays under the radar so I can pick one up within my budget 🥴👍

[@ID-Guy]

Keep your eyes peeled because they do come and go (just as quickly) - BUT there are also such amazing varieties to choose from in this collection. I wish you luck Richard, they're still under-appreciated 😉

[@flippinzippo9670]

Dude I miss your enthusiasm. Been out of the game for too long. Love you brother

[@simmysharma6845]

Aahh! That's a beauty, congratulations 👍😊

[@paulgraham1465]

Awesome piece and combo! Your El Primero would also great on a Bund strap too.

[@savariaxa]

The quality of Zenith movements back then in the 50’s and early 60’s : Zenith 135 Chronometre, 40T Chronometre, 133.8 automatic one of the best bumpers 120T and the first Zenith El Primero from 1969 !

[@ID-Guy]

I've been drooling over Zenith bumpers... AMAZING bargains all round... Think I'll end up grabbing one soon enough 😉 It's that applied star on the dial that gets me every time...

[@markbowman7240]

a great review on a watch i love the history and look of and which im.going to try on in a couple of days , as im wanting something 60s for a big birthday coming up

[@fabiansuarez523]

Undoubtly a grail piece and fantastic vintage looks. 12 minutes of video is very little time to speak about this beauty. My congrats on your new watch. By the way you must have mentioned the history of the Zenith cronographs, locked for so many years.

[@allthetime7583]

Awesome watch. Congratulations, enjoy! It’s been on my radar for a while.

[@markbowman7240]

great review of a watch ive looked at for a long time , a true leegend and the nato looks so cool congrats its a beauty

[@borassictime918]

I love the A384 and wish I could afford one…even at half-price. Congratulations on a superb choice, so much more beautiful, distinctive and stylish than some other revered chronographs IMHO, not least because of the case shape. I find it strange how Zenith flies under the watch radar, despite its quality and historical importance. I for one definitely join you in appreciating it. And without wishing to to be pedantic, the F1 car photo is James Hunt in his 1976 McLaren M26. Marlboro (Philip Morris) only started F1 sponsorship in 1972 with BRM and 1974 was its first year sponsoring McLaren. So, definitely 1970s rather than 1960s…but I get your strap point…😉

[@ID-Guy]

Hahaha! I knew someone would point out Hunt's McLaren was from the 70's ;) Had a few 60's cars like mustangs, ann OG Lotus Cortina lined up beforehand BUT the Marlboro livery was too good for me to pass. Thank you for sharing all of this brother AND great highlight around their underrated-ness. It's shameful but then all the more for us to appreciate 😉

[@m4ttyp4nts]

i moonlighted 15 hours a week at a second job for about 9 months to purchase the watch i wanted. if you want this zenith, then hustle; it's not that far out of reach.

[@CanadaTimeRelojes]

I got the original from the 60´s with the 4 point star at the back of the watch , acrilic glass etc. still functional. Awesome video i love this kind of special watches. Brillant work ID GUYS i ll start floowing

[@PapriceP]

It's a gorgeous original design. Also the date text size is HUGE.

[@ID-Guy]

And how Zenith distorts their date text too... it's just fantastic. My ideal placement idea on a dial too (personal preference). Who knew you didn't need a cyclops lense to have a legible date 😉 Well said Paprice 🥃

[@PapriceP]

@@ID-Guy It's a criminally underrated watch.

[@craig2100]

Well done. The El Primero is a brilliant watch. Thanks for sharing.

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you for this Craig and it really means a lot that you enjoyed the clip (I never know how these "Reviews" will go) 🥃

[@craig2100]

@ID-Guy I'm actually a tad jealous that you were able to find this piece. Most estate sales in my area are a tad bogus. But I'm happy that you're going to have the opportunity to enjoy this watch, and it's going to a great home where it can once again be appreciated.Cheers!

[@barrettwbenton]

Excellent presentation. Your appreciation of this El Primero pretty much mirrors my appreciation of that *other* near-forgotten automatic chronograph, Seikos 6139 (which, ahem, actually beat Zenith and "the other guys" in terms of actual series production). What actually made the EP stand out, as you point out, was how they managed such high specification in such a thin calibre. (My kinda-sorta-still grail is an EP Rainbow Flyback, which I wish I'd gone for broke and grabbed while prices were only mildly extortionate.) P.S. I put deployants on damn near every strap I can - they make too kuch sense not to, and the cool-factor is unassailable.

[@ID-Guy]

Brilliantly said brother AND you're another person that's pushing me to look at the Rainbows... they really are exceptional... maybe it's just me, but I'm seeing them for fairly decent prices (probably because they're in need of service or something) Ah, you have good taste 😉 Thanks for sharing this 🥃

[@KeyKiller74]

I'm adding this beautiful time piece to my bucket list. 😍⌚🔥

[@peterstorey9000]

I have the rainbow 🌈 flyback what an incredible model from an incredible brand.

[@josevasquez1781]

Enjoy the video, I own the Zenith A384 Liberty, 150 numbered watches fir the US market.

[@robertschmidt9584]

IDGuy’s gun show 💪 is back! Wouldn’t want to mess with you! Great video.

[@ID-Guy]

Hahaha! thanks Rob 😆 I've atrophied though... been too focused on running laps. Going to have to up the game in the coming months...

[@devrimtas3152]

I love your watch taste , this is also my grail chronograph.

[@Hoppetakeyama]

Excellent vdo. Congrat for new watch.

[@tonylee-UK]

Outstanding video, thank you. The Zenith of Zenith watch videos.

[@ID-Guy]

Thanks a million Tony, really appreciate it. I never know how these sorts of review videos go but thank you, means a lot! 🥃

[@pandc1000]

I love this watch but just can’t decide between this and the Smokey dial!!

[@ID-Guy]

The A385 is a beauty, an the immediate model that came after the 384. Definitely a bit more "limiting" in terms of strap colours and combos BUT it's as vintage Zenith as it gets 😉 seeing vintage 385's where the smokey has gone a grey... it's unreal! 🔥

[@jameshoward9700]

Hey hey, nice one! Wear it well bru! Yep, love 'em. They're a total classic and I've so nearly pulled the trigger myself. A fantastic accompaniment to the Seamaster Trilogy. Perhaps black fabric would work well? Something between a sailcloth and a cordura? Like one of the woven fabrics? But not a NATO for me... Or a black leather racing?

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you James and you're right! Black fabric is that optimal (safe) choice that looks amazing with the dials! You just know the exploring will continue into the future 😉

[@jasons46]

Nice watch. Been looking at this exact model myself. Did you try one with the ladder bracelet? Not sure what I'd make of that but do like chronographs on black leather rally straps like the vintage Heuer watches come on.

[@ID-Guy]

I wasn't able to experience the A384 on a bracelet BUT I've learnt over time that those stamped clasps aren't for me. Putting a hundred or so towards their deployant clasp made all the difference 😉 And excellent point on the rallye strap. I'm actually considering an all red variant to spice it up 🔥 Thanks for this Jason!

[@harrycee656]

That box is amazing presentation.

[@ianmarshall3633]

What a fantastic piece. The size and style suits you perfectly. It looks much better than the FXD. I Think you've finally found the watch that is an expression of your personality and design mind set. The use of a deployent clasp is pure genius. Well done my friend 😊

[@arniac6920]

I own the brown gradient dial version. The case shape is awesome the movement and pusher feel is 2nd to none . It is my only zenith but love every bit of it except the leather strap where I felt the color wasn’t helping the watch so I changed the strap big deal :)

[@thewatchloungechris]

great watches for sure i miss mine wish i never sold it had the el primero chrono 38mm blue dial classic . but at the time worker at walmart and obviously with all the physical work csnt knock these things around like you can a g shock

[@jeremygreenberg1279]

Congrats mate I got one maybe 2 years ago and it’s legendary. I kept the black leather strap that works well. Not sure the mayo you chose is the best pairing. I mean if you like it then more power to you but it feels like the strap is steaming a bit of the thunder from that gorgeous dial and case, no ?

[@noelmurphy3450]

Great review, thank you. I love Zenith and have an original (mint) Defy.....I adore it. Keep up the excellent reviews. Thank you. Noel

[@RahHumbug]

Thank you so much for your content. This watch is smashing!

[@ID-Guy]

Ah, it was my pleasure to share it Scott and thank you! I really loathe talking about myself in videos at the best of times BUT there are rare occasions when it's nice to share a bit of introspection 😉 Thanks again brother 🥃

[@rd_rae]

Well chosen, and nicely individualized. Congrats on this beauty. Also on my wishlist. What’s the thickness of it though?

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you brother! I don't know the numbers off hand but it can't exceed 12mm's by very far, maybe 12,75. Insanely wearable 🥃

[@derek1ee]

Is that a 18mm deployant clasp from Zenith, or do they make a 20mm version (and do you happen to have the reference number for the clasp)? Thanks!

[@roamy3605]

I believe that you should work with Zenith to promote the Zenith brand and maybe even help design the right watch for us watch freaks. Zenith is good/great but I see so much more potential. I would take this watch at 40mm with the hands of the watch in a black outline for visibility. I'd take it in a split 1/10th second!

[@fakenewsisthenews3542]

Brother, got a question. Never tried a deployant on a nato, very interesting and curious. Does/can it add length? Or does it subtract length?

[@burhanalg]

Bravo - beautiful piece

[@auxiliary4023]

The comment I would agree with is "little watches" I had a look in my local AD which stocks them and pretty underwhelming was my take and difficult to read sub dials. Then again I didn't agree with your thoughts on the Longines Flyback so we all have different tastes.

[@lawrencemaligaya790]

Excellent video. You have impeccable taste