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A manufacture synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, Zenith have been crafting exceptional timepieces since the 19th century. Founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot, they have built a legacy of horological excellence that continues to resonate within the watchmaking world.
With a history marked by revolutionary achievements, Zenith have consistently introduced reliable and accurate timepieces. Their name is revered in the watch industry, reflecting their dedication to a visionary approach that embraces both tradition and innovation. Zenith’s commitment to pushing boundaries has made them a trailblazer in creating unique and futuristic models.
The El Primero
On January 10th, 1969, Zenith unveiled the El Primero, the first fully integrated chronograph movement capable of a high-frequency vibration of 36,000 beats per hour. Initially named the 3019 PHC, the El Primero earned its moniker, translating to "the first" in Spanish, symbolising its groundbreaking significance. Despite launching their movement in September, months after competitors like Seiko and the Chronomatic Group, Zenith maintained confidence in their superior creation. Unlike the 19,800vph of the Chronomatic movements or Seiko’s 21,600 vph, the El Primero’s high-frequency precision set a new standard. Slim at just 6.5mm thick, it surpassed conventional designs while redefining automatic chronographs. Zenith’s legacy of innovation extended beyond the El Primero. They supported Felix Baumgartner’s record-breaking skydive, with the El Primero Stratos becoming the first watch to break the sound barrier.
The brand’s current roster comprises the Defy, Chronomaster, Pilot, and Elite collections, which serve as the four pillars underpinning Zenith's enduring success.
The Defy
The Defy collection epitomises Zenith’s pursuit of precision through innovation. Designed for men and women, this collection features state-of-the-art movements and cutting-edge materials, pushing the boundaries of both performance and aesthetics. It upholds Zenith’s tradition of blending heritage with modern engineering.
The Chronomaster
The Chronomaster collection celebrates Zenith’s mastery of high-frequency automatic chronograph movements. With designs rooted in the 1960s and 70s, it bridges past and present seamlessly. Featuring a 1/10th of a second function, the collection exemplifies Zenith’s quest for precision while paying homage to their iconic heritage.
The Pilot
Drawing inspiration from the golden age of aviation, the Pilot collection reflects Zenith’s historic ties to the field. As the first creators of pilot watches, Zenith acquired the trademark to stamp “Pilot” on their dials in 1904. Today, the collection honours the adventurous spirit of early aviation while incorporating contemporary design elements.
The Elite
The Elite collection represents an elegant blend of minimalism and modern sophistication. With unisex designs that feature slim lines and understated aesthetics, it draws from Zenith’s 20th-century heritage while embracing contemporary elegance. Models like the Elite Classic and Elite Moonphase underscore Zenith’s dedication to timeless design.