The history of this Zenith Chronograph
Zenith has a rich heritage in the field of timekeeping. In the late 1960s, prior to the launch of its automatic movement in 1969, the manufacture produced mechanical chronographs designed for legibility and reliability. This transitional model exemplifies this approach. The dial features a historical detail with elongated hour markers on the minute counter at the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions. During this period, telephone boxes charged for calls in 3-minute increments. This visual cue allowed the wearer to check the cost of their call at a glance. Readability dictated the design of the timepiece.
Case, movement and strap of this Zenith Chronograph
The round case measures 36 mm. It is crafted from yellow gold and frames a light champagne-coloured brushed dial. The whole is protected by a domed Plexiglas crystal. The hours are indicated by solid gold dauphine hands. The chronograph function uses flame-blued steel hands to provide immediate readability. The hand-wound mechanical movement is powered by the 146D calibre with a column wheel. It beats at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 38 hours, with a total of 17 jewels. The strap is made of textured black leather and fastens with a gold pin buckle.
Why this Zenith watch
This chronograph stands out for its original condition. The absence of luminescent material on the dial has allowed the champagne-coloured background to age without any deterioration to the surface. It represents one of the brand’s last generations of manual-winding chronographs before the transition to automatic movements. The contrast between the yellow gold of the case and the blued steel of the chronograph hands offers a visual balance sought after by collectors of vintage timepieces.
Contents and condition
This 1960s timepiece is supplied on its own. The yellow gold case shows slight micro-scratches from wear on the lugs and the polished bezel. These superficial marks bear witness to its history and can be reduced by polishing, carried out at the buyer’s request. The dial and tachymeter scale are in pristine condition.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch with a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand watch retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, signs of wear, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
