Zenith 18K Rose Gold Chronograph 1950 – Sorry Sold 17/08/14

Description

Zenith is one of the oldest watch companies est.1865 and one of only a handful which still produces its own mechanical movements. The company has an almost unparalleled record of technical achievements and notably, 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.

During the late 1940’s and throughout the 1950s Zenith held the lead in producing the most commercially successful and the most technically advanced, chronograph wristwatches. The technical expertise craftsmanship which went into these watches was immense making them very expensive watches at the time.

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 within a tenth of a second and this is an unsurpassed world record even 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 is also known for providing chronograph movements to some of the world’s most famous Swiss brands including Rolex and Patek Philippe.

Here we a have superb fully restored and guarranteed example of a 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, an area often known as ‘the cradle of Swiss watchmaking’.

The Dial

Just delightful! Gold over pearl white, two registers and fly back centre seconds hand. This is a beautifully clear and clean design, complimented by gold Dauphine hour and minutes hands and batons. 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 evidently been very well cared for and used sparingly as the beautiful 18ct solid rose gold case with swept back lugs is in near perfect condition. Rose gold watches were much rarer during this period making this watch much more sought after than its yellow gold equivalent. At 37.5 mm in diameter not including the Zenith crown, this is a very large wristwatch for this period. Opening the case-back all is perfect and 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, showing no signs of wear visible to the naked eye.

The Movement

This is the famous high grade Zenith 17 Jewel Cal. 156 chronograph movement which helped establish Zenith’s name as the world’s leading manufacturer in wristwatch chronographs. This particular watch movement is in stunning, 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*

Following its service our watchmaker has finely regulated the watch as usual. Following this, when we made our final checks including testing the watch for accuracy on our electronic test instrument, we found the watch to be keeping perfect time to within + or – 3 seconds per day.

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.

The Strap & Buckle

A high quality ‘croc’ leather dark brown padded leather strap is fitted with a gold plated buckle. If you have a preference for any other colour, or a different style of leather we will be pleased to change it for you at no extra cost.

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 chronograph watch from Zenith, the world leader in watches of this class. Zenith is often referred to as “the watchmaker’s wristwatch” because of their expressed preference for the brand. We often hear 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, everything considered.

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

Delivery is free within the UK and only £45 for world-wide delivery via DHL or TNT.

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 is only applicable if the ‘Buy It Now’ price is paid.

We are able to take part exchanges.