Though arguably not a number that comes with as big an impact as ‘150’ or ‘200’, Zenith’s 160th anniversary is still a cause for celebration, and the maison is marking the occasion with a new watch family – the G.F.J.
The model comes as tribute to the brand’s founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, as well as one of the most celebrated chronometer movements in watchmaking history, the Calibre 135.
The Calibre 135 has an illustrious history to put it mildly, having won an unprecedented 235 chronometry prizes during its production from 1949 to 1962.
Originally designed for observatory competitions, it was regulated by renowned chronométiers and dominated the Neuchâtel Observatory trials.
The movement was first revived in 2022 through a collaboration with master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen and Phillips, leading to an ultra-exclusive edition that reignited interest in this historic calibre.
Now, Zenith takes the legacy further by re-engineering the Calibre 135 for modern collectors. The movement retains its distinctive architecture with an offset centre wheel and an oversized balance.
It integrates contemporary technical advancements such as an extended 72-hour power reserve, optimised gear train, stop-second mechanism, and COSC-certified precision rating of +/-2 seconds per day.
This movement is meticulously decorated with Zenith’s signature “brick” guilloché, inspired by the manufacture’s façade, and enhanced with Geneva stripes and polished finishes.
The G.F.J. timepiece encapsulates the spirit of 1950s watchmaking with a refined 39mm platinum case featuring a stepped bezel and curved lugs.
The dial combines a lapis lazuli central section with gold pyrite flecks reminiscent of a starry sky, a mother-of-pearl small seconds counter, and an outer ring with the familiar brick-pattern guilloché.
It’s completed by faceted white gold hour markers and baton-style hands.
Priced at CHF 48,900 / €52,900 / $49,900, strap options include dark blue alligator leather, black calfskin, or blue Saffiano calfskin versions, with an optional platinum bracelet featuring embossed patterning.
But that’s not where the celebrations end. Zenith is also offering up an exclusive trilogy of blue ceramic chronographs, paying tribute to the brand’s signature color.
Here the Chronomaster Sport (CHF 21,900 / €23,700 / $22,700), DEFY Skyline Chronograph (CHF 22,900 / €24,800 / $23,800), and Pilot Chronograph (CHF 15,400 / €16,500 / $15,500) are all undergo the royal blue treatment, with the brand building on its ceramic prowess, applying exquisite finishes usually reserved for precious metals to achieve a distinct aesthetic.
Limited to 160 pieces each, these timepieces can be purchased individually or as part of a collector’s anniversary box set.