Zenith Elite Classic automatic 39 mm

The collection

Manufacture Zenith revisits its own past from the perspective of the present through the Elite collection, with unisex automatic watches. Sleek and minimalist yet strong in its graphic identity and confident in its timeless lines and proportions, the Elite collection doesn't repeat the past, but rather rejuvenates the codes of mid-twentieth-century watchmaking. These models set the tone for Zenith's vision of contemporary elegance.

The model

This timepiece, which houses the Elite caliber, features an extra-flat case measuring 39 mm in diameter. With its sober, uncluttered design, this case expresses the care that the Manufacture puts into its watches, in a spirit of durability and a quest for the essential. Designed in the shape of a pebble, this extra-flat steel case boasts sleek lines, whose finesse is underscored by tapered, slightly sloping lugs. Water-resistant to 50 meters, the case of this model reveals through its transparent back, the mechanics in motion and the ballet of the oscillating weight, delicately adorned with Côtes de Genève of its caliber reference 679.

The timeless classicism of this timepiece of innate elegance is continued, on the display side, by a grey gradient dial, with a slightly sunrayed finish, punctuated by very fine leaf hands. In a striking trompe-l'œil effect, the slender hour-markers, carved into delicate grooves, offer a sense of relief. The whole is protected by a domed sapphire crystal. These subtle refinements continue on an alligator strap, fitted with a pin buckle.

A legendary caliber!

Elite. A christening name that speaks volumes about the ambitions of this movement designed by Zenith in 1994. With the aim of offering a robust, reliable, precise and ultra-thin basic complement to its famous El Primero chronograph movement, the first Elite calibre already marked Zenith's determination to be a manufacture creating all its movements, from the most complex to the most ingenious. A rarity in the watchmaking world, given that at the time very few companies had even their own basic movement. Initiated in 1991, the study of this ultra-thin, modular automatic movement gave rise, three years later, to the Elite caliber. The first of the brand's developments to benefit from computer-aided design (CAD), this versatile movement, also destined for other houses, was immediately available in several versions. Offering a power reserve of over 50 hours, this 11-line caliber was envisioned as a long-term product, destined for constant future evolution. When it was unveiled at the Basel Fair in 1994, the Elite caliber made an instant impression. Experts praised its many assets and its exceptional finesse. As a result, the specialized press awarded it the coveted title of "best movement of the year"

The package

This Zenith Elite is in very good condition. It will be delivered with its case only. This model has been authenticated and checked by our watchmaker and as such benefits from the Lepage Vintage 1-year warranty.