Zenith Chronograph For LeGant 'Cal 146HP', 1960s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Back in the middle of the century, it was a pretty common thing for department stores to sell co-branded or white-label watches. Some of these include Sears' Tradition brand, LL Bean's white labeling of Hamilton watches, and LeGant, which was Montgomery Ward's in-house brand. That is, of course, if you can call it "in-house." LeGant watches were actually made by Zenith under contract for the department store, so they featured good Swiss movements that were then cased and finished in France. Unfortunately, the brand was eventually sold to Seiko in the '90s. But this beautiful LeGant is from those golden years and definitely looks the part with its chunky case and fantastic "reverse panda" dial. And how about that unique, seemingly handwritten LeGant signature? C'est chic. SPECS Stock # LEGZEN146 Brand Zentih for LeGant Style Chronograph Model N/A Serial N/A Size Men's Material Stainless Steel Dial Matte Black Millimeters 38 Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap CASE & BRACELET The exceptional case appears to have been gently polished previously, featuring long angular lugs that exhibit honest signs of use. The case retains its original pump pushers and Z-star signed crown, belying its Zenith genetics. The original case back is adorned with the Zentih logo as well and remains in great condition, showing mild signs of use, with the serial number still fully present. The Montgomery Ward inventory number is also crudely engraved on the back of the bottom right lug. The watch comes supplied on a two-piece handmade leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The handsome glossy black "reverse panda" dial is in wonderful overall condition, showing no damage and only nominal elements of age. Likewise, the silver subdials are all in incredible condition and have achieved a glowing warmth that enhances the character of the watch. The tritium lume has developed a charming cream patina and shows no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands are in great vintage condition, with no degradation present, and have aged to match the dial well. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time and functioning correctly, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.