Vintage Unisex Zenith Wristwatch Manual wind cal.2542 circa 1960s

SPECIFICATION

Reference: Zenith
Movement: Manual wind cal. 2542
Age: Circa mid 60s
Case Size: 31mm
Case Thickness: 8mm
Lug to Lug: 38mm
Lugs: 16mm
Condition: used Zenith watch
Box & Papers: No
Case Material: Stainless steel back
Warranty: 12-Months Warranty

 POINTS TO MENTION

• In great pre-owned condition, with light wear from use 
  
• Case and bezel have some light scratches and marks
  
• Sunburst dial
• Fully Serviced manual wind movement
  
• Paired with an unworn black leather strap 

This quaint Zenith has a 2542 manual wind mechanical movement produced by Zenith during the mid-to-late 1960s, approximately between 1964 and 1969, it has 17 jewels, runs at 21,800 bph with centre seconds and shock protection. This was a strong period for Zenith, as the company was developing a range of reliable in-house calibres for both dress and sport watches. The 25xx movement family evolved from designs connected to the Martel Watch Company, which Zenith acquired in 1959, strengthening its technical capabilities and production capacity.

The 2542 was the manual-wind movement , while the 2542PC added automatic winding and a date function. These movements were used in a variety of classic 1960s Zenith models, including elegant dress watches and some early sportier pieces. This era directly preceded the release of Zenith’s groundbreaking El Primero chronograph in 1969, making the 2542 part of an important chapter in the brand’s mechanical development and heritage.

A BIT OF TRIVIA

Zenith was founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, by Georges Favre-Jacot, who was only 22 years old at the time. Unlike many watchmakers of the era who relied on a scattered system of independent workshops, Favre-Jacot brought all aspects of watch production under one roof. This vertically integrated approach was innovative for the 19th century and allowed Zenith to tightly control quality and precision. The brand quickly built a reputation for technical excellence and went on to win over 2,000 chronometry prizes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

In the early 20th century, Zenith became known for producing reliable wristwatches, pocket watches, and marine chronometers. One of its most significant early achievements was the development of high-precision observatory chronometers used in timing competitions. Zenith movements were respected for accuracy, and the brand became a supplier for military and professional use in various countries.

The 1960s marked another milestone with the introduction of the legendary El Primero in 1969. It was one of the world’s first automatic chronograph movements and distinguished itself by operating at a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, allowing for measurement down to 1/10th of a second. The El Primero became one of the most celebrated chronograph calibres in watchmaking history and remains in production today in updated forms.

Like many Swiss brands, Zenith struggled during the quartz crisis of the 1970s. Production of mechanical movements was reduced, and the company changed ownership several times. In the 1980s, however, mechanical watchmaking saw a revival, and Zenith regained recognition for its technical heritage. A major turning point came in 1999 when Zenith joined the luxury group LVMH, bringing renewed investment and global visibility.

PERSONAL NOTE

This is a great example of a 60s Zenith watch, which has the fantastic in-house 2542  movement. This is a fine example of a delightful, reliable dress watch, that is made by one of the most prestigious watch brands around. We have brought this Zenith from the past to the present so that you can take it on into the future.