Zodiac Chronograph "Venus Cal. 178", 1960s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Though the brand technically started in 1882, it wasn’t until 1908 that Zodiac became the official name of the Le Locle, Switzerland-based watch company. Originally known primarily for their innovative movements and pocket watch designs, Zodiac ended up producing several sports models in the 50s-60s and were even direct competitors to brands like Rolex, Blancpain and Tudor, though they're often overlooked because the name isn't as recognizable. This chronograph from the 1960s, however, is an excellent example of why the brand was able to compete with those bigger names. It's a beautiful model with more than a passing resemblance to the Heuer Carreras of the same era, with its silver dial with tonal subdials, light blue numerals on the tachymeter scale, and sword-shaped handset. SPECS Stock # ZSCHRON Brand Zodiac Style Chronograph Model N/A Serial N/A Size Men's Material Stainless Steel Dial Silver Millimeters 35.5 Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap CASE & BRACELET The crisp and handsome case exhibits minimal evidence of previous polishing and shows light signs of honest use present. The case retains its original unsigned crown and pump pushers. The case back features its original factory engravings deep and legible. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The silver sunburst dial is very well preserved, showing only very minimal signs of use. The light blue Arabic numerals in the tachymeter scale add a nice pop of color to the otherwise all-silver dial. The tritium lume plots all remain present with minor degradation present under UV light inspection, and have aged to a dark grey coloration. The original sword-shaped hands are in excellent condition and the inlaid lume has aged to a lighter grey color than the dial, and the blued seconds hand is a nice feature as well. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.