Zenith Chronometer with Caliber 135

Zenith is renowned for its contributions to chronometry since its founding in 1865. By the mid-1900s, the brand had established itself as a leader in precision, consistently earning accolades at observatory trials. 

The Caliber 135, launched in 1948, was a landmark achievement. Designed primarily for precision chronometers, it was crafted under the guidance of Ephrem Jobin. Over its production run, this movement won numerous prizes at chronometry competitions, solidifying its reputation as one of the most accurate hand-wound movements ever made.

The Caliber 135 is a 13-ligne movement featuring a large 14mm balance wheel and a Breguet overcoil, running at 18,000 vibrations per hour. It includes a fine adjustment mechanism for enhanced precision. These movements were often cased in high-quality timepieces, like this one, for the consumer models.

This chronometer dates back to 1954, as determined by its movement serial number. It belongs to the second generation of Caliber 135 chronometers, which are distinguished by several refined features. 

The movement is rhodium-plated and decorated with Côtes de Genève striping, while the first series was gold-plated. It has a monometallic, uncut, balance with adjustement screws for precise timekeeping. 

This generation introduced a slight simplification to the design, most notably replacing the earlier version’s rounded-head pin visible near the first winding wheel, with a screw. This modification is a quickly visible characteristic distinguishing of the second-generation 135 movements.

This watch has a 36mm steel case, measured excluding the original crown. Though unsigned by the factory the case design aligns with other verified examples of Zenith Chronometers cal. 135. The case is in an original and untouched condition and it shows only normal traces of use

The case is secured by a screw-in-back and the domed plexiglass crystal is in an excellent condition.

The dial of this Zenith Chronometer is original and unrestored, showing a light and even patina that reflects its age. Its applied triangular arrow-head indices and small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock. The Zenith logo and “Chronometre” word are intact.

The Caliber 135 has been fully serviced in-house. It is in excellent working order and comes with a six-month guarantee and originality certificate. 

The watch is complete with its original black leather strap and with its original steel clasp. 

For collectors and enthusiasts seeking a historically significant and mechanically superb timepiece, this Zenith Chronometer with Caliber 135 represents a remarkable opportunity. Contact us for more details or to arrange a viewing. 

This watch is guaranteed to be an original and it is offered in reliable working condition with our six-month guarantee and certificate of originality.