ZENITH Epervier 18k Gold Bezel 1990s

“Epervier.”

Named after the French word for “hawk,” the Epervier was introduced in 1988 as a sporting timepiece embodying the precision, focus, and determination of a bird of prey. Combining technical capability with refined engineering, it represented Zenith’s vision of a truly professional sports watch.

Its origins are inseparable from the legend of the El Primero. Developed within the lineage of the world’s first automatic chronograph, the Epervier was conceived as an extension of that legacy, with the name itself becoming one of the celebrated designations associated with the El Primero family.

Its defining feature is the rotating bezel. Designed not only for measuring elapsed time but also for practical applications such as monitoring fuel, oxygen reserves, and other timing requirements, it was created with genuine professional use in mind.

The present example represents an important chapter in Zenith’s history, reflecting both the company’s automatic chronograph heritage and the resurgence of mechanical watchmaking that began in 1988.

A glossy lacquered white dial is paired with a solid 18k gold rotating bezel, creating a distinctive balance between sporting functionality and refined elegance.

The screw-down caseback and screw-down crown provide dependable water resistance, while the soft-metal inner caseback contributes to enhanced anti-magnetic protection.

Powering the watch is the Zenith Caliber 49.2, based on the proven ETA Caliber 2892-2 and extensively modified in-house. Renowned for its stability and reliability, this movement remains one of the defining characteristics of the Epervier.

Far more than a conventional sports watch, this timepiece embodies Zenith’s rich heritage, the enduring legend of the El Primero, and the rebirth of mechanical watchmaking.

A remarkable watch with a story that reaches far beyond its era.

- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -