Zenith Chronograph "Spillini"

Long before the legendary El Primero revolutionised mechanical chronography in 1969, Zenith had already established an outstanding reputation for precision and technical excellence. The late 1940s and early 1950s represented a particularly fascinating chapter in the history of the Le Locle manufacture, when traditional watchmaking craftsmanship met the growing popularity of sophisticated wrist chronographs. During this period, Zenith collaborated with the celebrated movement specialist Martel, producing beautifully proportioned timepieces powered by refined hand-wound chronograph calibres.

Dating to circa 1950, this charming 35 mm steel chronograph perfectly captures the elegance of that era. Its beautifully aged silver dial displays a warm ivory patina, complemented by applied golden spearhead hour markers and distinctive Arabic numerals at 12 and 6 o'clock. Two recessed subsidiary registers, delicate golden hands and a finely printed outer minute track complete a remarkably harmonious composition.

The most distinctive feature, however, lies in its unusual chronograph pushers, affectionately known among Italian collectors as “Spillini”, meaning little pins. Exceptionally small, slender and tapered, these delicate pushers give the case an unmistakable vintage character, quite different from the larger pump pushers found on later chronographs. Their discreet profile enhances the beautifully balanced proportions of the steel case.

Inside beats the remarkable Zenith calibre 136D, a hand-wound, column-wheel chronograph movement developed by Martel, featuring a 45-minute counter and embodying the mechanical sophistication of its generation. Completing this charming configuration is a JB Champion steel expanding bracelet, whose classic construction and distinctive vintage appearance perfectly complement the watch's timeless personality.