Zenith G.F.J. Watch: Celebrating 160 Years of Manufacturing Excellence
Zenith Celebrates 160 Years with the G.F.J. Collection
In 2025, Zenith marks a significant milestone – 160 years since Georges Favre-Jacot founded the Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland. To commemorate this anniversary, Zenith introduces the G.F.J. collection, named after the visionary founder, featuring a modern interpretation of the legendary Caliber 135 chronometer movement.
The Legend of Caliber 135
The original Caliber 135, introduced in 1949, became one of the most celebrated chronometer movements in watchmaking history. It dominated observatory chronometry competitions throughout the 1950s and 1960s, setting numerous precision records that stood for decades. Reviving this legendary movement for the 160th anniversary represents Zenith's deepest respect for its horological heritage.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Case | 39mm platinum |
| Dial | Lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl |
| Movement | Updated Caliber 135 |
| Power Reserve | 72 hours (up from original 40 hours) |
| Certification | COSC certified at ±2 seconds/day |
| Limited Edition | 160 pieces worldwide |
| Price | $49,900 USD |
Technical Innovations
While respecting the original Caliber 135's architecture, Zenith's watchmakers have incorporated modern materials and manufacturing techniques to enhance performance. The updated movement offers a remarkable 72-hour power reserve – nearly double the original's 40 hours – while maintaining the chronometer-grade precision that made the calibre famous. COSC certification at ±2 seconds per day ensures the G.F.J. meets the highest standards of accuracy.
Artistic Craftsmanship
The dial of the G.F.J. showcases Zenith's commitment to artisanal excellence. The combination of natural lapis lazuli with mother-of-pearl creates a mesmerizing play of color and light. Each dial is unique due to the natural variations in these precious materials, making every one of the 160 pieces truly one-of-a-kind.
Historical Context
Georges Favre-Jacot was just 22 years old when he founded Zenith in 1865. His vision of combining all watchmaking operations under one roof – revolutionary at the time – laid the foundation for what would become one of Switzerland's most respected manufactures. The G.F.J. collection pays tribute to this pioneering spirit while demonstrating Zenith's continued innovation in the 21st century.
Collector Appeal
With only 160 pieces produced worldwide, the G.F.J. represents an extremely exclusive opportunity for serious Zenith collectors. The combination of platinum case, precious stone dial, and legendary movement heritage creates a compelling package that honors the past while showcasing modern watchmaking capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the updated Caliber 135 differ from the original?
The updated movement retains the fundamental architecture of the legendary Caliber 135 but incorporates modern mainspring technology and manufacturing tolerances to achieve a 72-hour power reserve (up from 40 hours) while maintaining chronometer-grade precision of ±2 seconds per day.
Why was lapis lazuli chosen for the dial?
Lapis lazuli has been prized for millennia for its deep blue color and natural gold flecks. When combined with mother-of-pearl, it creates a dial that evokes the night sky – a fitting tribute to Zenith's name, which means "highest point" and relates to celestial navigation.
Is the G.F.J. available for immediate purchase?
The G.F.J. is a limited edition of 160 pieces, allocated through Zenith's authorized dealer network. Given the exclusivity and historical significance, early allocation is recommended for collectors interested in acquiring this commemorative piece.
Explore More Zenith Heritage
Discover the full El Primero collection or learn about Zenith's manufacturing heritage spanning over 160 years of Swiss watchmaking excellence.
Source: aBlogtoWatch, March 2025