Zenith

Zenith is a Swiss watchmaker based in Le Locle, Switzerland. Founded in 1865, the company has a long history connected to aviation and exploration. Its watches have accompanied pioneers including aviator Louis Blériot and Felix Baumgartner. Today, Zenith continues this connection through its Pilot collection, alongside several other ranges of mechanical watches.

Zenith and the History of Aviation

Zenith has been associated with aviation pioneers during important periods in the history of flight.

One of those figures was Louis Blériot, who publicly praised his Zenith watch for its precision and reliability.

The brand also identifies Felix Baumgartner among the pioneers who have worn its watches.

These connections form part of Zenith's relationship with aviation and exploration.

Today, the company offers a dedicated Pilot watch collection.

For aviation enthusiasts, the Pilot range is the most direct connection between the company's current watches and its history in flight.

Watchmaking in Le Locle

Zenith was established in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot.

He brought different watchmaking professions together under one manufacture. This approach helped create what Zenith describes as the first modern watch manufacture.

The company remains based in Le Locle, Switzerland.

Its watchmaking history also includes the work of Charles Vermot, who protected equipment used to make the El Primero movement.

His actions made it possible for production to resume in 1984.

This part of the company's history shows how keeping watchmaking equipment and knowledge can help preserve a mechanical movement.

Collections and New Models

Zenith makes several collections alongside its Pilot watches.

These include Chronomaster Sport, Defy Skyline, Defy Diver, Icons, and Zenith | USM.

The company has also introduced a G.F.J. Calibre 135 edition made with J.N. Shapiro.

This edition is limited to 25 watches in rose gold. It features a hand-turned guilloché dial made in California and damascened finishing.

The model brings together work from Zenith and J.N. Shapiro.

Zenith's range covers different approaches to mechanical watch design, from the Pilot collection to models focused on specific movements and finishing techniques.

Warranty and Customer Services

Zenith provides a five-year warranty with its watches.

Customers who register their watches receive an additional three years of warranty.

Online purchases also include three additional years of warranty and a first complimentary service.

The company provides delivery and simplified returns without additional charges.

Customers can also use its personalised concierge shopping service.

Zenith provides an international warranty, watch catalogues, user manuals, and customer support by phone and email.

The company's address is 34 rue des Billodes, 2400 Le Locle, Switzerland.

Zenith is of interest to pilots and aviation fans because of its connections to people who helped explore the possibilities of flight. Its Pilot collection carries that aviation theme into its current watch range, supported by a history of Swiss mechanical watchmaking.