Zenith Espada silver dial Day-Date Chronograph ref 01.0040.418

Introduced at the dawn of the automatic chronograph era, the Zenith Espada arrived as a highly ambitious timepiece. It was not just another self-winding chronograph—it combined a full calendar and moonphase display, placing it among the most technically complex automatic chronographs of its time.

 

In the early 1970s, Zenith collaborated closely with Movado, and the Espada shared strong visual and technical ties with the Movado Astronic, also known as “The Astronomer.” The family resemblance is unmistakable, reflecting a shared design language rooted in futuristic optimism and the experimental spirit of the era.

 

The example offered here represents the second execution of the model. It features the updated Zenith logo—more squared and modern in appearance—replacing the earlier version that displayed a star above the script. This subtle evolution marks an important shift in the brand’s visual identity during the 1970s.

 

Its 38 mm tonneau-shaped case perfectly captures the bold “space-age” aesthetic of the decade. The octagonal bezel enhances its architectural presence, while the original steel bracelet integrates seamlessly beneath the hidden lugs. The result is a design that feels both futuristic and fluid—technical, yet surprisingly organic on the wrist.

 

The silver dial is rich in detail. A base-1000 tachymeter scale runs along the inner bezel, complemented by distinctive applied hour markers. Three subdials manage the chronograph functions, while apertures display the day, month, date, and moonphase—creating a dynamic yet harmonious layout that never feels overcrowded.

 

Powering the watch is the legendary Zenith caliber 3019 PHF, fully serviced by our watchmaker. This high-frequency automatic chronograph movement represents one of the great technical achievements of its time.

 

If you think about it—an automatic chronograph combined with day, date, month, and moonphase—this is the kind of complication suite one might expect from a house like Patek Philippe, often at a significantly higher price point.

 

Yet the real charm of the Espada lies just as much in its design as in its mechanics. It feels like a watch born under disco lights and stage spotlights—perfectly at home on the wrist of a 1970s icon like Freddie Mercury. One could even argue that pieces like this didn’t just follow the disco movement—they helped start it.

 

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Specifications:

• Zenith El Primero Espada Chronograph reference 01.0040.418

• Steel 38 mm steel case

• Serial 50xxx-11 dates to early 1970s

• Silver dial with inner tachymeter bezel and cut outs for day/date/ phase of moon functions

• Original Zenith steel bracelet

• Zenith El Primero 3019 PHF automatic movement

• Fully serviced by our watchmaker

• One-year mechanical warranty

• Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping