ZRC Grands Fonds 300 HERITAGE "Pepsi" Reissue Series 3 blue dial rubber bracelet 39 mm

The story

Disappeared from the radar in the 1980s, the mythical ZRC Grands Fonds 300 watch, introduced in 1964 for the divers of the French Navy, has since 2015 made its grand return to the watchmaking scene.

The collection

A veritable concentration of the Grands Fonds spirit, the references in the HERITAGE 38mm line take their cue from the diving watches created in the 1960s. All have been designed to match the aesthetics of the original models in every detail. Worn with sport chic or pure diver's style, these boldly designed timepieces enhance both men's and women's wrists with casual elegance.

As robust as the watches assembled for the French Navy, their monobloc case in 316L steel boasts a diameter of 39 mm. Their construction benefits from research into the programmed deformation of materials to withstand the enormous pressures encountered under the seas and oceans. As with all ZRC watches, they feature the latest technical innovations to guarantee water-resistance to a depth of 300 meters, after a series of tests at minus 1,500 meters. The secret? Its programmed-deformation case back!

Getting to know you

A journey back in time begins with the first glance at this Grands Fonds 300 watch. In addition to the emblematic crown at 6 o'clock, the blue dial and “Pepsi” bezel perpetuate the ZRC style with the famous “lollipop” second hand. You'll also discover an imposing 3mm domed sapphire crystal, housing a Serie 3 dial inspired by the 1967 version, recognizable by its minute track. It also features the same information on the dial at six o'clock as on the original model, and its famous date at three o'clock. The fine hands and hour-markers are coated with high-intensity Super-LumiNova SLN-X1 paint for optimum legibility. Finally, this model features an aluminum bezel insert for a “vintage” look, as well as an FKM rubber strap with a “tropic” look, typical of watches of the era.

Motor side

The Maison ZRC has chosen the Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 Élaboré automatic movement to power this Réédition watch. This offers you a power reserve of around 38 hours and a precision of +/- 7 seconds per day.

What you need to know

This ZRC Grands Fonds 300 Série 3 “Pepsi” watch is adorned with a resolutely vintage look to pay tribute to one of history's most iconic divers. To be as close as possible to the original, the steel case is now 39 mm and does not retain the ECS system, making it a pure 60s reissue. Its “Pespi” bezel adds that extra “funky” touch, but above all this watch remains a tried and tested instrument that will be ready to accompany you on all your everyday adventures!

ZRC's attention to detail extends right down to the packaging, with a red box and warranty card evoking the style of the 60s, not to mention a handy screwdriver for replacing the pumps.