Zenith pocket watch with Argus watch guard Circa 1960

The little story

In the 1920s, Zenith considered the possibility of setting up in France in order to fight against the protectionist measures of the French market and thus compete with brands such as Lip or Yema. Indeed, at that time, taxes were aimed at slowing down the entry of Swiss watches into our market, and the choice was very simple: either abandon the French market or tackle it from within by relocating part of the production.
After an in-depth study of the markets, the brand decided on 20 April 1923 to set up in the town of Besançon, the cradle of French watchmaking. This new factory was called "Nouvelle Fabrique des montres Zenith", in order to meet the needs of French customers exclusively. In this new factory, Zenith France manufactured gusset and wristwatches, which were then sold to French retailers.
There will be virtual competition between Zenith France and its Swiss sister company. Indeed, the French watch factory sometimes improved the finishing and the reliability of the calibres designed in Switzerland, thanks to its modern and very well equipped workshops. However, in 1975, the Besançon factory was closed after 50 years of history.

What you need to know

This gousset is in a very good condition and its plexi glass shows a slight trace of wear at the level of the bulge. It is powered by the Zenith caliber 18.28.1.P.E which is not presented anymore. It is probably the most famous caliber of pocket watches. Conceived in 1905, it did not stop evolving during decades. Its qualities are so good that in the middle of the 1960s, it was still being assembled! It is beautifully finished and its large balance oscillates at 18,000 vibrations. Its 6-digit serial number is typical of the Zenith Besançon production of the late 1960s. 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.