Zenith Watches

It was in 1865 that 22-year-old Georges Favre-Jacot started Zenith SA in Neuchatel, Switzerland. The brand has an incredibly rich history, having invented the world’s fastest and most accurate mechanical chronograph movement, the El Primero, and accomplished many other firsts. In the 20th century, during the quartz crisis,  Zenith’s watchmaker Charles Vermot hid all the plans and parts for the El Primero mechanical movement when the owners threatened to destroy them and move to quartz technology. He saved one of the most legendary movements of all time. Since 1999, Zenith has been owned by the LVMH Group, and today it continues to create El Primero movements — constantly improving on the timing and accuracy.

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History of Zenith

George Favre-Jacot founded Zenith in 1865 with a unique watchmaking vision and the courage to bring modern innovations to very traditional trade. Thanks to his forward-thinking ideas and determination Zenith became Switzerland’s first integrated watch manufacture. His objective was to produce the perfect timepiece: the most reliable and the most precise watch ever seen.

To reach this ambitious goal, he knew that it was imperative to unite all of the watchmaking trades involved in making a watch under a single roof. So he built a 17,000 m2 workshop connected directly to the Le Locle train station allowing him to receive a direct supply of the materials he needed for production. This revolutionary Swiss watchmaking site already counted up to 2000 workers in the earlier decades of the 20th century.

Zenith – The Brand Name

In 1900 Zenith was awarded the Grand Prix for the Zenith Caliber, whose performance was so exceptional and precise that they named the Manufacture after it.

Today

Today, the pioneering spirit of Georges Favre-Jacot remains a guiding light for the Manufacture. Zenith currently produces around 21,000 timepieces per year.

Who owns Zenith?

Zenith was acquired by LVMH in November 1999, becoming one of several brands in its watch and jewelry division, which includes Hublot, Bvlgari, and TAG Heuer. The Manufacture is still based in le Locle, Switzerland.

Fun Fact

After several decades of watchmaking, Zenith gained an international reputation for precise watches. By 1901, they began selling watches in India. Mahatma Gandhi was gifted a Zenith pocket watch by India’s Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. This silver pocket watch never left his side and was one of his rare possessions. Unfortunately, it was stolen when Gandhi was traveling to Kanpur. However, the thief was filled with remorse and returned the watch six months later.

Zenith Collections

Defy

The Defy collection is a range of modern and bold watches that showcase Zenith’s technical expertise. The watches feature high-frequency movements, innovative materials, and avant-garde designs. The Defy is a popular choice for those who appreciate cutting-edge watchmaking.

Chronomaster

The Chronomaster is a collection of classic chronograph watches that pay homage to Zenith’s long history of precision timing. The watches feature the iconic El Primero movement, which was first introduced in 1969 and is still used in Zenith watches today. The Chronomaster is a favorite among watch collectors and enthusiasts.

Pilot

The Pilot collection is a range of aviation-inspired watches that feature bold designs and rugged materials. The watches are often large and easy to read, with features such as chronographs, GMT functions, and pilot-specific scales. The Pilot is a popular choice for those who appreciate the adventurous spirit of aviation.

Elite

The Elite collection is a range of elegant and understated watches that feature simple designs and slim profiles. The watches are often made of precious metals and feature minimalist dials. The Elite is a popular choice for those who appreciate the timeless beauty of classic watchmaking.

Icons

Zenith Icons is a special selection of vintage Zenith watches that are rare and highly desired. These watches have been carefully selected, restored, and verified by the manufacturer. The Zenith Icons collection is divided into themed groups and provides an opportunity for you to own a part of the brand’s watchmaking history with complete confidence.