Zenith pocket watch with Argus watch guard Circa late 1960

The little story

In 1923, Zenith decided to set up in France in order to fight against the protectionist measures of the French market and to compete with brands such as Lip or Yema. Located in the town of Besançon, the cradle of French watchmaking, Zenith France manufactured gusset and wrist watches in its new factory and then sold them to French retailers.

There will be almost competition between Zenith France and its Swiss sister. Indeed, the French watch factory sometimes improved the finishing and the reliability of the calibres designed in Switzerland, thanks to the modern and very well equipped workshops. However, in 1975 the Besançon factory was closed after 50 years of history.

What you need to know

The gusset is in a very good condition and its plexi glass shows no trace. It is driven by the Zenith calibre 18.28.1.P.E that needs no introduction. Conceived in 1905, it did not stop evolving during decades! With its beautiful finishing and its large balance oscillating at 18,000 vibrations, we understand better why this calibre was used by Zenith until 1982!

Its 6-digit serial number is typical of the Zenith Besançon production of the late 60s. It is thus a charming piece of French watchmaking history, testifying to the know-how of our beautiful country!

The package

This Zenith pocket watch will be delivered in a revision case. We do not have its original papers or case. However, it is accompanied by its Argus 23 steel watch guard. This Zenith has been authenticated and serviced by our watchmakers and as such benefits from the Lepage Vintage 1 year warranty.