In 1865, Georges Favre-Jacot founded his watchmaking manufacture with a singular vision: to craft the perfect timepiece. This relentless pursuit of precision and reliability is embodied in the brand’s name, Zenith, symbolizing the pinnacle of achievement. Now, marking its 160th anniversary, the Swiss manufacturer unveils the G.F.J.—a stunning time-only watch powered by a resurrected icon: the legendary Caliber 135-O.
The Legacy of Observatory Chronometry
The mid-20th century observatory trials were a proving ground for horological mastery, elevating both the science of timekeeping and the prestige of competing brands. Zenith, a participant since 1897, amassed an unrivaled 2,333 chronometry awards—among them, the Caliber 135-O, designed by Ephrem Jobin in the 1950s. Named for its dimensions (13 lignes in diameter, 5mm thick), this movement dominated competitions at Neuchâtel, Geneva, and Kew Teddington, securing 235 prizes—a record unmatched in watchmaking history.
Regulated by Zenith’s master watchmakers Charles Fleck and René Gygax, the Caliber 135-O achieved a historic five consecutive first-place wins at Neuchâtel from 1950 to 1954. Its 2022 revival—a collaboration with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips auction house—saw ten vintage movements restored for an ultra-exclusive edition, captivating collectors.
Caliber 135-O Reborn for the 21st Century
Debuting at Watches and Wonders 2025, the modernized Caliber 135-O retains its ancestor’s architecture but integrates contemporary innovations. The offset center wheel accommodates a larger balance wheel for enhanced precision, while a 72-hour power reserve (up from 40 hours) and optimized gear train reflect technical advancements.
Operating at 2.5 Hz, the movement features a Breguet overcoil, regulation screws, and a signature double-arrow regulator. A stop-seconds mechanism and spring-mounted jewel settings further refine accuracy, certified by COSC to ±2 seconds per day.
The G.F.J. Watch: Vintage Elegance, Modern Craftsmanship
Housed in a 39mm platinum case with stepped bezel and curved lugs, the G.F.J. pays homage to 1950s design. Its blue guilloché dial—Zenith’s signature hue—features a Lapis Lazuli center evoking a starry sky, faceted white gold markers, and a mother-of-pearl subdial at 6 o’clock.
Three strap options include blue alligator, black calfskin, and textured “Saffiano” leather, each paired with a platinum buckle engraved with the G.F.J. initials and brick motif. A platinum bracelet with embossed links is available upon request.
A Testament to Perfection
Limited in production, the G.F.J. celebrates Zenith’s 160-year quest for horological supremacy. By resurrecting the Caliber 135-O, the brand bridges its storied past with cutting-edge innovation—proving that the pursuit of perfection is timeless.
