Zenith XL-Tronic Watch

Our Perspective:

Most people, justifiably, know Zenith because of their El Primero. A movement that was so unbeatable, that even Rolex used it inside every Rolex Daytona from 1990-2000. Zenith provided these movements not only to Rolex, but also to Tag Heuer, Ebel, Daniel Roth and many others. With a manufacturer that was known to supply others, it's interesting when it's the other way around. In this watch, Zenith opted to use a patented technology from Bulova (as stamped on the watch caseback). Bulova's tuning fork technology was revolutionary, since it increased watches’ autonomy and precision and was only seen prior in music. This electronic movement allowed the seconds hand to sweep smoother than any mechanical watch and have greater accuracy as well. Tuning fork movements were seen as a hybrid between mechanical and quartz watches and this particular Zenith Caliber 50.0 was only produced for 1 year with only 1,000 pieces known. Finding an example like this with it's C-shaped case in near-mint condition with it's original tag is rare today and will be even harder soon.

Condition Report:

Near-mint vintage condition. Watch has very faint handling scratches throughout. Light scratches and wear at caseback. Dial is in pristine condition. Crystal has faint scratch near date aperture (not noticeable to naked eye). Strap and buckle are generic and new. Movement is clean and free from damage and rust. Watch meets expected vintage timekeeping standards.

Condition Grade: 9/10