1940s 14ct Gold Zenith Chronograph
Ref: 402440
Specification
Specific Age : Circa. 1940s
Case Size : 33mm
Case Thickness : 11mm
Lug to Lug : 40mm
Lugs : 18mm
Condition : Pre-Owned
Box & Papers : Zenith Box
Case Material : 14ct Yellow Gold
Service History : 12-Month NON WATERPROOF Warranty
Points of Mention
This watch is sold as "Watch Only" but does come with a Zenith box, whilst not period correct it is a nice vintage box that suits the watch. The watch comes paired on an aftermarket dark brown leather strap which suits the watch perfectly, the lugs are female and thus have a slightly different design. The dial and handset are completely original and untouched, beautifully preserved with no signs of ageing. The case is in great condition and has been professionally refinished. The movement does come with the KibbleWatches 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.
The Watch
Founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot at 22 in Le Locle Switzerland. In November 1999 they were purchased by LVMH Group joining brands like TAG Heuer and Hublot. They are one of the few brands that continue to manufacture their own in-house movements. Over the years Zenith has won over 2300 awards for precision.
We have here a stunning example of a 14ct Gold Zenith Chrono. Its slim profile 33mm round case has fine angled lugs. At 40 mm lug to lug length, you can be sure of a comfortable fit on the wrist. Square pushers and a large crown sit on the right side. Polished to a perfect shine the case has a refinement that shouts out quality. The domed crystal sits proudly above the gold-tone dial. An outer Tachymetre is clearly printed, the inner ring measures 60 seconds. Elegant Art Deco numerals mark the hours, at 3 o’clock a 45-minute register and at 9 o’clock the continuous second's register. This combination provides great symmetry to the watch. Fine heated blue pencil hands and a chronograph seconds hand with a leaf counter balance finish the dial with an understated sophistication that Zenith is famous for. On the reverse a plain snap-on case back. Inside a Manually Wound Zenith Cal. 136, 17 Jewel quality movement. Fitted on an 18mm leather strap with female lugs.
Personal Note
Zenith is by far the most underrated vintage watch brand out there, I've said it for many years and even own a few Zeniths in the personal collection, some of which I would never part with. I do feel like we will have a resurgence of vintage Zenith and I believe it has already begun, especially with some surprising auction results over the past few years! This beautiful example, whilst small, is just so well preserved and looks fantastic on the wrist! I do see a trend of smaller watches coming back, rightfully so, this is an example to jump on if you aren't afraid of a smaller watch.