Zenith, based in Le Locle, the cradle of Swiss watchmaking, looks back on a history rich in innovation and precision. The company was founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot under the name “Fabrique des Billodes” before being renamed “Georges Favre-Jacot et Cie.” George, a 22-year-old visionary, revolutionized the industry by establishing one of the first centralized watchmaking manufactories. This innovative approach brought all stages of production together under one roof, ensuring absolute control over quality and precision.
Although the company was known for its production of pocket watches, it expanded its product line during the 1900s. It then began producing clocks, chronographs, and marine and shipboard chronometers. Its boldness earned it first place in 1903 at the chronometry competition organized by the Neuchâtel Observatory. The brand quickly achieved international success, allowing it to open branches in Moscow, Paris, Vienna, and London in the early 20th century.
In 1911, Georges Favre-Jacot handed the reins of the company to his nephew, James Favre. James decided to rename the manufacture “Zenith,” in homage to a successful pocket watch model and as a nod to astronomy, a symbol of the brand’s lofty aspirations. Collaborations were formed to establish the House as a benchmark in luxury watchmaking, including a partnership with the Lausanne-based architect Alphonse Laverrière between 1917 and 1926. During this period, the manufacturer began producing its first wristwatches. The unmatched precision of its watches was confirmed in 1926 when the company set a record at the Kew Observatory, with a rate deviation of just 7 hundredths of a second over 45 days. This exceptional performance reinforced Zenith’s reputation for excellence on the international stage.
New innovations emerged over the years, such as the Caliber 135, a true feat of watchmaking launched in 1948. This revolutionary movement achieved unprecedented success by winning the title of champion of precision at the Neuchâtel Observatory competition for five consecutive years, from 1950 to 1954. In 1969, Zenith revolutionized the world of mechanical chronographs with the launch of El Primero, the world’s first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement. This technical feat is a testament to the manufacture’s pioneering spirit and watchmaking expertise.
Over the decades, Zenith has distinguished itself through its numerous contributions to watchmaking, including a multitude of patents that attest to its constant commitment to innovation. Building on its heritage and expertise, the House continues its tradition of excellence by creating luxury watches that combine performance, precision, and timeless design. The manufacture remains at the forefront of watchmaking innovation, while preserving the art of traditional Swiss craftsmanship.
Zenith’s Most Iconic Watches
Zenith creates iconic watches that leave their mark on the world of watchmaking. Among its most famous creations, the Defy Classic is a perfect fusion of tradition and innovation. This automatic watch challenges the conventions of watchmaking with its avant-garde design and cutting-edge technologies. It features a skeletonized dial , a true masterpiece of contemporary architecture, shaped like a central openwork star whose rays extend between the hour markers.
Also part of the same collection, the Defy Fusée Tourbillon is one of Zenith’s iconic models. Its openworked dial offers a glimpse of a superb tourbillon at 6 o’clock, showcasing the brand’s undisputed mastery of horological complications. It is a true work of art powered by the El Primero 4805SK caliber. Its design is a reinterpretation of the constant-force fusée-and-chain mechanism, featuring 575 individually assembled components.
A true legend, the El Primero stands as a symbol of Zenith’s innovation and craftsmanship. This high-frequency automatic chronograph, launched in 1969, revolutionized the watchmaking industry with its sophisticated complications. The watch stands out above all for its exceptionally high balance wheel frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz). This remarkable performance allows it to display 1/10th of a second—a technical feat that remains rare even today among mechanical chronographs.
The Caliber 135 is also one of the brand’s iconic innovations. Produced between 1949 and 1962, this movement powered many Zenith models of the era, including the Port Royal and the Captain. The Caliber 135-O, meanwhile, won more than 230 chronometry awards for its exceptional precision.
Complete your Zenith case with our watch bands
Through its exceptional timepieces, Zenith encourages everyone to push their limits. The brand demonstrates its passion for cutting-edge watchmaking by presenting true masterpieces that combine style with sophisticated complications. At Cie Bracelet Montre Paris, we share this passion for timeless elegance and offer a selection of refined watchbands, perfectly suited to Zenith watches. Whether you’re looking for a vintage, adventurous, sporty, or casual look, you’ll find the ideal model to complement your style among our wide selection. Order your Zenith watch strap on our website, or visit our store located on Rue du Dragon, in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.
Among our must-haves, treat yourself to a watch strap in exotic leather. Enjoy the unique texture of alligator or lizard leather, which will give your watch a sophisticated touch. You can also enhance your Zenith watch case with an ostrich leather strap to combine elegance and character. The speckled appearance of ostrich leather adds a touch of originality to your wrist. Calfskin leather straps, on the other hand, complement the classic design characteristic of Zenith watches. This premium material guarantees exceptional durability while offering optimal comfort thanks to its natural suppleness. Highly popular among athletes, the NATO strap is also an ideal choice for your Zenith watch. Made of nylon, this accessory combines strength, water resistance, and flexibility to help you tackle any challenge.
