Introduction
Arguably one of the most famous chronograph makers in all of horology, Zenith is best-known for their El Primero automatic chronograph movement and the host of iconic chronographs that have been powered by it. However, they have a plethora of other types of watches to their name, one of which being this Jumbo “Calatrava” dress watch from the 1940s. Made of stainless steel and measuring in at a whopping 37.5mm in diameter, this timepiece would have been massive for its time given that its time-only display means that it’s fellow time-only peers would have been between 30mm and 33mm in diameter. Featuring a tuxedo dial, so-called due to its two-tone white and grey color scheme, with a a subsidiary seconds dial and Arabic numerals, this timepiece is decidedly reserved, even considering how its construction would have classified it as a beast back when it was released. Today, it exists as a perfectly wearable timepiece that any collector can strap onto their wrist and enjoy straight away. Powered by the manual-wind cal.126 that is covered by a snap-on caseback, this timepiece retains its vintage appeal all while offering a modern experience on the wrist.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Zenith
Dimensions
37.5mm
Model
Jumbo "Calatrava"
Movement
Manual-wind Zenith cal 126
Reference
N/A
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa late 1940s
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Grey and white
THE DIAL
Featuring a so-called "tuxedo" dial due to its two-tone grey and white color scheme that is immediately reminiscent of a men's suit, this Zenith plays into its reserved use case even though its large diameter would have made it a rather casual watch at the time.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Measuring at 37.5mm in diameter, this Zenith's stainless steel case was a hulking figure on the wrist when it was first released. Today, it has become a decidedly modern timepiece as our size preferences have expanded. Furthermore, with its thin bezel and long curved lugs, it is wonderfully comfortable and pleasurable to wear.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case exhibits wear commensurate with the age of the watch. There is very slight prosity visible on the underside of the case near the lugs. Serial number clearly visible on exterior of caseback. Dial in excellent condition with original surface exhibiting minor wear and marks. The crystal has some scratches.
Our Perspective
While they might be best known for creating the El Primero chronograph movement, Zeniths like this example, and those like it, prove that they were certainly capable of a wide variety of watches and watch designs.
Sam Hines
Managing Director
