Movado Datron Chronograph

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SKU AS01606
SKU AS01606

Why We Love it

An automatic chronograph is not very elegant. Vintage chronograph enthusiasts will extol the merits of the Omega Speedmaster or the Heuer Carrera--their understated utility and sleekness of construction, for example, have been stalwarts of chronograph design throughout their production history. Automatic chronographs, on the other hand, with their bulky construction and workmanlike appearances, often get overlooked. When an earlier, manual-wound variant is available, it's the automatic version that often (sadly) gets passed over. Like the Heuer Autavia, whose manual-wound references (in particular the 2446C) command more respect (and higher prices) than their automatic successors

But the Zenith El Primero--and its American-distributed counterpart, the Movado Datron--is in many respects the exception to the rule. 

As a horological artifact, the significance of the El Primero movement cannot be disputed. It was arguably the first automatic chronograph movement ever produced (though Seiko and the Project 99 dream team led by Heuer and Hamilton would beg to differ), and whether it was or wasn't, of the automatic chronograph movements to debut in that fateful year of 1969, the El Primero was the only one that would be high-beat--its 36,000 bph unsurpassed by any other automatic chronograph.

Now, if you're familiar with most automatic chronographs (like the Caliber 11, 12 and 15-powered Autavias, or modern examples powered by the Valjoux 7750), you'll know one thing--they're thick. That's because, in most automatic chronos, the automatic module is sandwiched on top of the chronograph. But in the El Primero, the chronograph complication and the automatic module are fully integrated.

What this means is that the cases for El Primeros can be substantially thinner, allowing for proportions that are downright elegant. Take this Movado Datron. While this particular reference was offered in a sportier steel variant, it was also offered in a gold-capped or solid gold cushion case. It's rare to find a gold or gold-capped version in as solid condition as this, due to the precious metal's tendency to get scratched and scarred. But this one is in excellent condition, having just returned from an extensive spa treatment.

The dial is also unique. At first glance it screams "Daytona," bearing a resemblance to the Rolex Daytona Reference 6263. It's a unusual take on the popular "panda" color-way that's getting so much traction on the vintage chronograph market in recent years. 

Movado may mean "budget" to some people, but this Datron is anything but, with its striking exterior matched by solid mechanics. Speaking of the movement, this one has been recently fully overhauled by a master watchmaker. Since maintenance of this movement is half the battle, you can strap it on with ease, and enjoy this amazing chronograph for years to come. 

A:S Guarantee

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Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Shipping & Returns

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Movado Datron Chronograph

Movado Datron Chronograph

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Movado Datron Chronograph

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