Engine-Turned 800 Silver, Grand Prix Medal, c.1920
Zenith was founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, by Georges Favre-Jacot, who pioneered in-house manufacture of every part of the watch. At the 1900 Paris World's Fair, Zenith was awarded the Grand Prix, the highest honour available, for the quality of their movement. Two years earlier, they had taken the Medaille d'Or in Geneva. Both accolades are stamped on the caseback of this watch, where they have remained for over a century alongside the Zenith signature in script.
The movement dates to approximately 1918-1922 based on serial number 2275104 and cross-referenced Zenith production tables. It is a gilt manual-wind movement, signed "Zenith" on the plate, running well and keeping good time.
The 50mm case is 800 silver with engine-turned (guilloche) vertical ribbing across the back - a labour-intensive decorative technique that marks this as a quality-tier production, not a standard grade piece. The white enamel dial is signed Zenith with clean Arabic numerals, gold-toned hands, and a subsidiary seconds register at 6 o'clock.
Condition is honest. The case wears its age well: patina and light surface wear consistent with a century of life, no dents. The dial has a hairline crack near the 9 o'clock - visible on close inspection and reflected in the price. The crystal has minor surface scratches. Movement winds and sets correctly and runs well.
A signed piece from one of Switzerland's oldest continuously operating manufacturers, with documented accolades to match. No box or papers. Chain not included.
