1960s Zenith 2000 with caliber 135

Zenith, founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, has established itself as a pioneer in the watchmaking industry. Renowned for precision and innovation, Zenith’s history is punctuated by significant achievements, notably the creation of the first integrated automatic chronograph movement, the El Primero, in 1969.

Ephrem Jobin played a pivotal role in the creation of the Zenith Calibre 135. Launched in 1948 during a fierce competition for enhanced precision among various watch manufacturers in the Observatory contests, the Caliber 135 showcased several groundbreaking technical advancements. These innovations not only secured the movement numerous esteemed awards but also led to unprecedented achievements, including winning five consecutive Neuchâtel Observatory chronometry prizes from 1950 to 1954. In total, the movement received approximately 200 honors, with two-thirds of them being first prizes.

This very timepiece is not only built around this mythical movement, it also comes in a beautiful 35mm steel case, with a mesmerizing sunny-finish silver dial and uniquely shaped hands.

But the rarity of this piece is that it actually comes with a non chronometer version of the caliber 135, which was produced in much fewer quantity than its more encountered chronometer counterpart.

Condition is very crisp also. This is a must-have for any serious vintage collector.