Zenith El Primero El Primero 36.000 VPH Stainless Steel / Black / Alligator

Reference 03.2040.400/21.C496

About this watch

The Zenith El Primero 03.2040.400/21.C496 is a masterpiece of horology, boasting a stunning black dial set against a polished stainless steel case with a diameter of 42 mm and height of 12.75 mm. The open case back provides a glimpse into the intricate Zenith caliber El Primero 400B movement, which operates at an impressive frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour. This automatic movement is a marvel of engineering, offering precision timekeeping and a chronograph feature with smooth, precise actions. With a power reserve of 50 hours and 31 jewels, the movement is designed to keep ticking even when you take it off for a weekend. The watch also features a date display, water resistance of 100 meters, and an alligator leather strap that adds a touch of luxury while providing durability. This timepiece is not just a statement piece, but a celebration of horological excellence, connecting you to a rich history of watchmaking.
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Key Features

  • Zenith caliber El Primero 400B movement
  • 36,000 vibrations per hour frequency
  • Chronograph feature with column wheel mechanism

Specifications

Brand
Zenith
Family
El Primero
Model
El Primero 36.000 VPH Stainless Steel / Black / Alligator
Reference
03.2040.400/21.C496
Movement Features
  • Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds
  • Date
  • Chronograph, Column wheel
Case
Stainless Steel 42mm
Dial Color
Black
Crystal
Sapphire
Water Resistance
100

Current Listings

[WTS] Zenith Chronomaster Original “El Primero” 38mm, OEM Deployant Strap & New OEM Bracelet

Zenith Chronomaster Original “El Primero” 38mm, OEM Deployant Strap & New OEM Bracelet

A 2023 Zenith Chronomaster Original 'El Primero' 38mm watch on a blue leather deployant strap, with an included OEM steel bracelet.

  • Condition: Like new
  • Bracelet type: OEM steel integrated
  • Strap type: Zenith blue leather deployant
Posted at
Feb 5, 2026, 8:29 PM
Active
[WTS] Zenith - 49.9010.9004/01.R947 Defy El Primero 21 Chroma 🎨 limited to 200 pieces

Zenith - 49.9010.9004/01.R947 Defy El Primero 21 Chroma 🎨 limited to 200 pieces

This listing is for a Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Chroma limited to 200 pieces, which is a complete set from 2022.

  • Condition: Mint condition
  • Year: 2022
  • Quantity Produced: limited to 200 pieces
Posted at
Feb 5, 2026, 1:22 PM
Active
[WTS] 2017 Zenith Chronomaster El Primero "Open Heart" 03.2040.4061/23.C496 - Box/Papers, Two Straps, Excellent Shape

2017 Zenith Chronomaster El Primero "Open Heart" 03.2040.4061/23.C496 - Box/Papers, Two Straps, Excellent Shape

The Zenith Chronomaster El Primero 'Open Heart' is a striking example of an open heart masterpiece, highlighting the legendary El Primero movement through an open-heart aperture on the dial.

  • Condition: Excellent pre-owned condition
  • Case Size: 42mm
  • Movement Power Reserve: ~50-hour
  • Water Resistance: 100m depth rating
Posted at
Feb 5, 2026, 12:37 AM
Active
[WTS] Zenith El Primero Chronograph - Serviced w/Extras

Zenith El Primero Chronograph - Serviced w/Extras

Zenith - 20-0010.420 · $3,350
A Zenith El Primero Chronograph with a gold filled case and 38mm diameter, featuring the Cal.420 movement.

  • Case diameter: 38mm
  • Lug width: 20mm
  • Lug to lug: 45mm
Posted at
Feb 2, 2026, 10:26 AM
Active
[WTS] Zenith Defy 21 Chroma El Primero (2022) – Ceramic – Full Set – Limited 200 €6950

Zenith Defy 21 Chroma El Primero (2022) – Ceramic – Full Set – Limited 200 €6950

A 2022 Zenith Defy 21 Chroma El Primero with a ceramic case and limited to only 200 pieces worldwide. It's powered by the legendary El Primero chronograph movement and features an original retail price north of €14,000.

  • Condition: Excellent with minor cosmetic wear on the case near the lugs
  • Case material: Ceramic
  • Movement type: El Primero chronograph
  • Water resistance depth: 100m
Posted at
Feb 2, 2026, 6:19 AM
Active
[WTS][US] Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Sport - Meteorite Dial - 42mm - 03.3120.3600/76.M3100 - Full Set

[US] Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Sport - Meteorite Dial - 42mm - 03.3120.3600/76.M3100 - Full Set

Up for sale is a Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Sport - Meteorite Dial - 42mm Watch functions perfectly mechanically, without issue.

  • Condition: Fantastic condition with minor hairlines
  • Water Resistance: 30m
  • Case Size: 42mm diameter
  • Band Material: bracelet
Posted at
Jan 27, 2026, 8:00 AM
Active
[WTS] Brand New Zenith Chronomaster Original Reverse Panda El Primero Chronograph | 03.3200.3600/21.C903 | Full Zenith warranty | Price reduced

Brand New Zenith Chronomaster Original Reverse Panda El Primero Chronograph | 03.3200.3600/21.C903 | Full Zenith warranty | Price reduced

A brand new Zenith Chronomaster Original Reverse Panda El Primero chronograph, discontinued by the manufacturer, still in its protective stickers and under full warranty.

  • Condition: Brand new, never used
  • Warranty: 2-year warranty from Zenith
  • Strap: Original leather strap with deployant clasp
Posted at
Jan 25, 2026, 4:06 PM
Active
[WTS] Zenith El Primero Defy Extreme Diver AKA PURE WRIST JOY Ref 95.9601.3620/51.I301 FULL SET

Zenith El Primero Defy Extreme Diver AKA PURE WRIST JOY Ref 95.9601.3620/51.I301 FULL SET

A Zenith El Primero Defy Extreme Diver with a unique blue starry sunray pattern dial and a titanium case.

  • Condition: Pre-owned, barely over a year old
  • Case size: 42.5MM diameter
  • Movement: El Primero cal 3620 CS automatic movement
Posted at
Jan 24, 2026, 7:53 PM
Active
[WTS] Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival Panda 03.A384.400/21.C815

Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Revival Panda 03.A384.400/21.C815

This is a 37mm Chronomaster Revival Panda, a limited edition model from Zenith's El Primero series, featuring a classic panda dial.

  • Condition: preowned clean condition with hairline scratches throughout
  • Crystal condition: may contain marks under strong magnification
  • Strap condition: worn
  • Case size: 37mm
Posted at
Jan 23, 2026, 6:51 AM
Active