Watch Service: Ebel 1911. Cal 134 (Zenith El Primero).

Another first post in a while, over a year in fact, sorry for the lack of posts! This was actually a watch I serviced a little while ago, but a watch I very much liked. I am particularly fond of the movement, Ebel calibre 134, also known as the Zenith El Primero.

The El Primero, first introduced in 1969, is widely considered as one of the most important chronographs ever – the worlds first automatic integrated high frequency chronograph to be invented. The high beating balance at 36000 vibrations per hour meant the movement could record time more accurately than any other chronograph around at that point in history, testament to its design is the fact it is still being used in new watches over 50 years later.

With the movement removed from the case, the hands are aligned for removal.

Dial and hands removed, the bottom side of the movement is now visible. Its quite a complicated but well designed chronograph. Incidentally with these movements, the handset function is at the first setting when the stem is pulled out, date set is at the second position, conventionally this is the opposite way around to most watches.

Working my way through the dial side of the movement.

Close up of the keyless works.

With the dial side disassembled I begin the top side of the movement. Its certainly unique in its design and a pleasure to work on.

Top bridge removed, revealing the chronograph recorders.

I carefully check each part as its removed for any signs of wear or damage. If any is found it must be assessed as to whether the part needs to be repaired or replaced. This ensures the correct functioning of the movement once it is reassembled and oiled. Any missed issues on a movement like this can cost the watchmaker a great deal of time, as depending on where the problem is, it can require a large section of the movement to be stripped back down to access the problem area.

Continuing on with disassembly. Nearly all of the chronograph components have been removed.

Train bridge removed revealing the train wheels.

Train removed and almost ready for the cleaning machine.

Once the movement is completely disassembled it will be placed in baskets and will all be run through the watch cleaning machine. This ensures all old oil and debris are removed prior to being assembled and relied.

The movement can now be rebuilt and oiled according to the correct specification as Zenith originally intended.

One beautiful looking chronograph fully serviced and performing exactly as it should. All aspects of the watch will be tested before it leaves the workshop and is returned to the customer, including timing checks, autowinding checks and all functions of the chronograph will be fully tested.

This particular Ebel 1911 was also receiving a light polish (case brighten), a very elegant looking watch, dressy and perfect for any formal occasion, especially in the yellow gold.

Thanks for reading, ill try not to leave it so long next time!

The Watch Professional