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How to Identify a Zenith Pocket Watch

Zenith watches have been one of the most prestigious brands in the world since their birth in 1865. Founded in Switzerland by Georges Favre-Jacot, these watches are still around today, and just as sought after. Bought out by LVMH in 1999, Zenith has more than 1,000 awards under its belt. It is one of the few Swiss companies to manufacture its own mechanical movements. Though the company has made different types throughout the years, Zenith pocket watches can be easily identified by their craftsman and artisanship, along with a few other important features specific to Zenith.

Instructions

- 1
  Study the watch. Though it seems obvious that a Zenith watch would have the brand name on it, the watches created before 1911 did not have the name on the dial. This is because Favre-Jacot did not have a name for the company until this year. According to Paris Watches, he looked up into the sky and was mesmerized by the stars. Zenith is the highest point in the universe, so it seemed a fitting name. A star also became the symbol for the company.
- 2
  Check the watch for a serial number. If one is visible, it can be used to find identification, by using watch databases, calling Zenith or asking an experienced jeweler.
- 3
  If the watch does not say Zenith, then you know it was made before 1911. Another time identifier would be the movement pieces. Zenith has exclusive features that were invented by the company and are not found with many other watch brands. When the company announced chronograph movements, developed in 1912, it received countless awards for their discovery. This movement includes a 10-second retrograde counter. Even more impressive is the "El Primero." Measuring up to 1/10 of a second, it produces the world's most accurate time.
- 4
  According to the Zenith official website, each watch takes nine months to complete. No matter the age of the watch, to make sure it is real you have to look at the quality. If it is real, the color will still be pure, the parts will still be well intact and the protective cover will still be in good condition.

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