Zenith El Primero Rainbow Flyback Chronograph, 02.0480.405/24

We are proud to present this iconic Zenith El Primero Rainbow Flyback Chronograph for sale in mint condition. 

The now infamous El Primero was launched in 1969 and its name ‘the first’, was a big statement within the watch industry as both automatic and chronograph watches both existed, just never together before then. Zenith’s choice of name, El Primero, drove the point home. But the moniker was suitable given its pioneering approach. It allowed the balance to oscillate at 36,000 beats per hour, a rate which in turn allowed the measurement of elapsed time to a then unheard of 1/10th of a second with central rotor, column wheel and the other now standard elements of an automatic movement having undergone a remarkable feat of miniaturization. It was such a leap that this is the very movement is what could be found powering Rolex’s legendary Daytona (ref. 16520) for the next 12 years.

The Rainbow variation of the El Primero was first shown at the Basel watch show in 1992 and was intended as a sportier waterproof variation of the iconic chronograph, and was immediately well received by the public and press in 1993. The following year the watch won the title of 'Best Chronograph' in Germany, ousting both the Omega Speedmaster and the Rolex Daytona. In May 1995, the French Air Force initiated a tender for a pilot’s watch, intending to order 1000 units annually for four years. Zenith participated and modified their EP400 caliber into the EP405 to accommodate the Flyback complication specified by the Air Force. Despite delivering six units for initial testing a few months later, budget cuts resulting from the French elections in November 1995 led to the tender's abandonment. Zenith, however, showcased the Flyback variant at the Basel show in 1997 and subsequently released the Zenith El Primero Rainbow Flyback to the general public, so that its development wouldn't go to waste.

This iteration of the infamous Chronograph, reference 02.0480.405/24 comes set in a 40mm stainless steel case fitted with a black uni-directional bezel with contrasting red/silver dive graduations. Its black 3 register chronograph dial features luminous Arab numeral hour indexes and matching hands, as well as contrasting white accents and a telemeter scale located on the chapter ring. The details are completed by a date aperture between 4/5 o'clock and protected by a flat sapphire crystal glass. Powering the watch is the automatic Calibre EP 405 flyback movement, which is protected by a closed caseback embossed with the Zenith shield. Lastly, the watch is finished by a brushed stainless steel bracelet with a dual folding butterfly clasp. 

Originally purchased and in mint condition following a service with Zenith in 2024. Supplied with its original inner and outer boxes, instruction booklets, service booklet, Zenith service documentation (2013/2015/2024) and original international warranty card. 

This Rainbow Chronograph benefits from the coverage of its Zenith service warranty until March 2025, however it is also sold with our 12-month warranty from the date of purchase.