Zenith G.F.J.

For Watches and Wonders 2025, Zenith is celebrating its 160th anniversary by unveiling the G.F.J., a contemporary interpretation of its iconic Caliber 135 chronometers. This release marks a revival of Zenith's rich history, predating the famous El Primero movement. The G.F.J. honors Georges Favre-Jacot, the founder of Zenith, with a modern twist on the precision-driven timepieces of yesteryear.

In 2022, Zenith collaborated with Kari Voutilainen to create a limited edition of ten watches powered by restored vintage Caliber 135-O movements. These movements were once sent to Neuchâtel Observatory competitions during the early 1950s. The successful release of these timepieces, with their platinum cases and hand-decorated movements, reignited interest in Zenith's chronometer legacy.

Now, Zenith takes this legacy further with the G.F.J., building on the 2022 collaboration while introducing a slightly modified Caliber 135. Originally created in 1945 by Ephrem Jobin, the Caliber 135 was designed to compete in the highest-level observatory competitions. Zenith’s premium version, the Caliber 135-O, won over 230 awards in chronometry, more than any other movement in history.

The new Caliber 135, updated for 2025, retains the original's iconic architecture but features a longer 72-hour power reserve, a top-seconds mechanism, and a COSC certification, ensuring it exceeds accuracy standards with a tolerance of +/-2 seconds per day. The movement’s bridges are adorned with a “brick” guilloché pattern, a nod to Zenith's historic Le Locle manufacture.

The G.F.J. is housed in a 39.15mm platinum case with a sleek 10.5mm thickness and an elegant stepped bezel. Its dial features a deep blue lapis lazuli center with golden pyrite flecks, a "brick" guilloché outer ring, and a mother-of-pearl small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock. White gold hour markers and a hand-applied minute track of 40 beads enhance the refined design, while slim white gold hands complete the sophisticated look.

Limited to just 160 pieces, the G.F.J. is priced at $49,900 and is available for pre-order through Zenith boutiques and authorized retailers, further cementing its status as a high-precision timepiece honoring Zenith's rich heritage.