Zenith 18K Swiss Chronograph 1950

Description

Zenith is one of the oldest watch companies and one of only a handful which still produces its own mechanical movements. In 1929 Zenith won world renown at Kew Observatory (England), when a Zenith wristwatch won first prize for an accuracy of better than 0.6 seconds per day.

And in 1969 Zenith introduced the world’s first automatic chronograph. Not only this but it was able to measure short time intervals at athletics events, accurate to a tenth of a second and this is an unsurpassed world record to this day! Zenith has also been recognised with more than 1500 awards and over 50 individual movement designs to its name, making it the Swiss brand with the most awards for precision.

Zenith is also widely known for providing the watch movements for some famous Swiss brands including Rolex and Patek Philippe

Here we a have superb c1950, Gentleman’s 17 Jewel Calibre 156, Zenith Chronograph in simply stunning condition. The watch has an 18ct Solid Gold case and was all made in-house by Zenith in Le Locle, the area often known as ‘the cradle of Swiss watchmaking’.

The Dial

Just superb and delightful! Gold on pearl white, two registers and blued steel fly back centre seconds hand. This is a beautifully clear and clean design, complimented by gold Dauphine hands, batons and numerals. The original dial as been superbly restored to the very highest standards and is now looking as good as new. The hands are in very close to perfect condition as is the lens.

The Case

This watch has been very well cared for and must have been used sparingly. The beautiful 18ct solid gold case with swept back lugs is in perfect condition. At 37.5 mm in diameter not including the Zenith crown, this watch is very large for the period. Opening the case-back all is as it should be, signed Zenith and with Swiss 18ct hallmarks with 18K and 0.750. The case has been professionally cleaned and lightly polished and is in superb condition and showing almost no signs of wear.

The Movement

This is the famous high grade Zenith 17 Jewel Cal. 156 chronograph movement which helped establish Zenith’s name as the leading manufacturer in wristwatch chronographs. This particular watch movement is in superb sparkling ‘as new’ condition.

This watch has been well maintained and following full inspection and service and we are confident in offering the watch with a 12 months warranty*

With care and with regular servicing, say every 3 to 4 years we would fully expect this watch to run quite happily for another lifetime! Our watchmaker commented that he found the movement to be especially clean and in excellent condition. Following the service he regulated the watch as usual. And when we made our final checks including testing the watch for accuracy on our electronic test instrument we found the watch to be keeping accurate time to within five seconds per day.

The Strap & Buckle

A high quality plain black padded leather strap is fitted with a gold plated buckle. If you have a preference for another colour, for example dark brown or a different style of leather we will be pleased to change it for you.

The Box and Papers

Although there are no original papers with this watch, the numbers and markings on the watch are all correct dating the watch to c1950. A detailed written receipt, warranty and a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. The watch will be supplied in the new high quality hardwood presentation box as shown.

In Conclusion

This really is a magnificent vintage gold watch from Zenith, one of the very best watchmakers in the world. Zenith is often referred to as “the watchmaker’s wristwatch” because of their expressed preference for the brand. We are always hearing how fantastic Zeniths are and we have never understood why they are not better known, or indeed famous! Technically they equal or better than anything from any of the top Swiss watch houses. Whatever the reason they represent amazingly good value just now, all things considered.

So this a rare, notable and highly collectable vintage gold watch from one of horology’s most revered names which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

We are happy to accept Paypal as this is the quickest method of payment. However we are pleased to accept payment by bank transfer or cheque. Please call and we will be happy to assist.

For more information and to discuss the price and payment, please call or text Alan on 07515949250 or +44 7515949250 if calling from overseas.

*12 months warranty only applicable if the ‘Buy It Now’ price is paid.

We are able to take part exchanges.