ZENITH ANTIMAGNETIC 1950s, MANUAL WIND

Foundation and pioneering vision
Zenith’s journey began in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, by watchmaker Georges Favre-Jacot at just 22 years old. Its radical innovation was to create the first integrated manufacture of Swiss watchmaking, where all manufacturing processes —from design to assembly— took place in the same space. This model guaranteed unprecedented quality control and laid the foundation for the brand’s legendary precision.

Chronometric precision and consolidation
Zenith quickly stood out in chronometry competitions, accumulating over 2,300 awards in the early 20th century. In 1899, it launched its first pocket chronograph, consolidating its technical reputation. The name “Zenith” —officially adopted in 1911 — symbolized its aspiration for absolute excellence, inspired by the highest point of the celestial vault.

Revolution: The El Primero movement
On January 11, 1969 , Zenith changed watchmaking history with the launch of El Primero , the first high-frequency automatic chronograph (36,000 vibrations/hour). This movement allowed to measure tenths of a second and had a power reserve of 50 hours. Its engineering was so advanced that Rolex used it in their Daytonas for nearly 30 years.

Surviving the quartz crisis
During the 70s, the quartz crisis threatened the Swiss industry. Despite pressures to abandon mechanical movements, Zenith preserved the plans and tools of the El Primero. In 1984 , it relaunched the movement after a demand from Rolex, sparking the global mechanical renaissance. A key gesture was hiding the molds in the factory’s attic to prevent their destruction.

Contemporary legacy
Today, under the LVMH group, Zenith merges heritage and innovation. Collections like Defy (with silicon escapement) and Pilot reinterpret its technical DNA, while the El Primero remains the heart of the brand. Its manufacture in Le Locle keeps Favre-Jacot’s philosophy alive: precision, vertical integration, and creative daring.

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