Zenith Chronograph Compur Sandwich 18k

Founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, Zenith quickly became one of the pillars of Swiss watchmaking, known for its technical precision and beautifully engineered chronographs. Decades before the iconic El Primero, Zenith had already mastered the art of mechanical timing instruments, and its Compur line from the 1930s and 1940s remains among the most collectible pre-war chronographs ever produced.

This stunning Zenith Compur Ref. 12412 embodies the golden era of the brand’s craftsmanship. Housed in a 35 mm solid 18k gold case, it preserves an elegant yet robust presence, defined by sharp edges and well-proportioned lugs that reflect its untouched geometry. The sandwich dial, an exceptionally rare feature for its time, presents a multi-level construction that enhances depth and legibility. Its warm patina and refined printing highlight the meticulous detail Zenith applied to every component.

At its heart beats the celebrated manual-winding Caliber 146, a column-wheel chronograph movement prized for reliability, precision, and architectural beauty — the very foundation upon which Zenith built its reputation for mechanical excellence.

Produced in the late 1930s and carrying the serial number 74xxxx, this piece is not only a fine vintage chronograph but also a fragment of Zenith’s horological legacy. Elegant, rare, and historically important, it captures the essence of pre-war Swiss innovation — a time when craftsmanship and artistry defined every second.