For its 160th anniversary, Zenith unveils the G.F.J., tribute to one of the most awarded movements in chronometer history: Calibre 135. Price €52,900
When Georges Favre-Jacot founded Zenith in 1865, his goal was to unite all aspects of watchmaking under one roof in pursuit of precision. The name “Zenith” reflects this ambition, referring to the highest point in the sky. For its 160th anniversary, the brand presents the G.F.J., a refined tribute to one of the most awarded movements in chronometry history: the Calibre 135, named after its dimensions (13 lignes wide and 5 mm thick).
In the era of observatory trials, precision was a mark of prestige. Watchmakers submitted their best movements for testing, and Zenith excelled. Since 1897, it has earned 2,333 chronometry prizes, more than any other brand. The Calibre 135, developed in 1949 by Ephrem Jobin under Technical Director Charles Ziegler, played a major role in this success.
Built for chronometry competitions, the movement came in two versions: a commercial one and the 135-O, reserved for observatory trials. The latter became a legend, winning 235 prizes, including five consecutive first-place awards at the Neuchâtel Observatory from 1950 to 1954, thanks to Zenith’s master chronométriers Charles Fleck and René Gygax.
In 2022, Zenith partnered with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo to restore ten original 135-O movements from the “golden years.” These editions, decorated to the highest standards, renewed appreciation for the calibre’s legacy.
The barrel now provides 72 hours of power reserve, up from 40 hours in the 1950s. It powers a new gear train with improved tooth design for better efficiency. The movement runs at 2.5 Hz (18,000 vibrations/hour), with a balance wheel featuring regulation screws and a Breguet overcoil.
A key feature of the original 135-O, the double arrow-shaped regulator ensures fine adjustment, now paired with a stop-second mechanism for precise time setting. The balance staff is protected by spring-mounted jewel settings. Each movement is regulated to within ±2 seconds per day and COSC-certified for accuracy.
Each component is meticulously finished. The bridges are distinguished by their “brick” guilloché finishing, inspired by the distinctive façade of red and white-painted bricks of the Zenith Manufacture that proudly spell out the letters G.F.J., the initials of Georges Favre-Jacot. The barrel features a circular satin finish and the crown wheel is black-polished.
Featuring a stepped bezel and curved stepped lugs, the 39.15 mm x 10.5 mm round case is crafted from 950 platinum, with alternating brushed and polished surfaces to highlight the elegant lines. Equipped with a notched crown emblazoned with the recurring G.F.J. initials, the watch is water resistant to 5 ATM.
Beneath the box-shaped sapphire crystal, the G.F.J. is adorned with a blue dial, Zenith’s signature colour.
The outer ring features a “brick” guilloché pattern, faceted white gold hour markers, and a discreet minute track of 40 white gold beads applied by hand.
The central part is crafted from deep blue Lapis Lazuli, whose gold-colored pyrite flecks inevitably evoke a starry sky.
Their natural texture makes each dial unique. Lastly, indicating the passing seconds, the oversized subdial at 6 o’clock is in mother-of-pearl. The hours, minutes, and seconds are indicated by thin baton-style white gold hands.
The Zenith G.F.J. comes with three different straps: a dark blue alligator leather strap, a black calfskin leather strap, and a blue “Saffiano” calfskin leather strap.
The platinum pin buckle is engraved with the G.F.J initials and the brick pattern.
Upon request, it can also be paired with a seven-row platinum bracelet, whose central links are embossed with the brick pattern.
Released in a limited edition of 160 pieces, the Zenith G.F.J, ref. 40.1865.0135/51.C200, is available for pre-order exclusively from the brand’s physical and online boutiques, as well as through authorized retailers worldwide, at the price of CHF 48,900 / €52,900 / US$49,900. zenith-watches.com
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