I examined the Shadow with a macro lens, and I was happy with what I observed. That said, constructing an all new case for the Shadow, instead of relying on the A384 case, would have upped the price substantially, probably well past the US$10,000 mark. A larger size would also be more coherent given the Shadow’s contemporary styling. And it would have further differentiated the Shadow from the A384 and A385 remakes. I wish the Shadow had retained the larger dimensions, which would have given it a much more uniquely 1970s feel. However, the all-black prototype that inspired the Shadow sported a large, ovoid 41 mm case. Though different in material and finish, the case of the Shadow is identical to that of the A384 and A385, with a diameter of 37 mm, giving it the size of a vintage watch. Another is the familiar tonneau-shaped case of the A384 and A385 that’s emblematic of the 1970s, where designers often experimented with unusual, geometric forms, a trend typified by watches like the Royal Oak and Heuer Monaco. One is the domed sapphire crystal that evokes the PlexiGlas crystal found on the vintage originals. The result is a sleek, monochromatic look that reminds me of the futuristic Zenith Defy, rather than the vintage remakes.īut the watch also incorporates plenty of vintage-inspired touches. First found on the Defy 21 Land Rover, the finish is essentially a form of frosting accomplished by shooting tiny ceramic spheres at the case surface, giving it a fine, grained finish. The micro-blasted titanium case is also noteworthy. It does detract slightly from functionality since the central seconds hand can no longer record elapsed time, though it can still measure rate of travel with the tachymeter. Zenith did away with the seconds track and date window found on the standard A384, giving the dial a stark, utilitarian style. I absolutely love the clean look stemming from the streamlined design. Anyone who knows Zenith will understand that’s an A384, but different. On the wrist, the Shadow stands out in a subtle but striking manner, especially to a watch enthusiast. In fact, it looked to me more like a Bamford collaboration rather than a standard model. I was struck by how different it looked on the wrist distinct not only from the other El Primero chronographs, but against other offerings at the same price point. I had a visceral reaction when I first strapped on the Shadow: my heart sang, and a smile crept onto my face. The El Primero A384 Revival that’s a faithful remake of the vintage original Initial thoughts
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