Zenith is probably the most underrated watch maker. They make there own movement and have a long history. I am interested in purchasing the chronomaster elprimero moonphase. I saw a number if them on sale in the secondary market and was surprised how inexpensive they are relative to other watches. Why is that? Is it because there might be a history of repair? If not the El Primero, then what?
Zenith as a brand is not the most prestigious. While a 36,000 vph chronograph was very impressive at introduction, the el primero is becoming a little long in the tooth (no hacking, no vertical clutch).
Additionally, it's thought the 36k movement requires more and better maintenance to run well. These are all factors, but the main one is that the demand just isn't that strong on the secondary market, perhaps because of styling, perhaps because of price. After all they're not much cheaper than, say, an Omega speedmaster which while isn't as technologically advanced has a strong heritage behind it.
you'll find plenty of people on here, including myself, drooling over every picture of a zenith posted on here. there's no shortage of respect for them here.
pretty sure the el primero has a stronger heritage than the speedmaster. the speedmaster went to the moon, it didn't take them there.
Welcome to the forum as for Zenith they have a good name for quality and even have their own dedicated forum so get a lot of respect from a lot of people including me.
Been on the Zenith forum, and many of the posts were old and dated. I really do like the brand, the history, and there movement. I think they have really made some changes recently that will enhance the brand. Your thoughts on the chronomaster?
Zenith don't make many watches per year. Thus people don't see many of them which in turn leads to an uncertainty.
In other words, there aren't enough people saying how great their Zenith watches are for other people to be confident in doing anything other than say they are good.
I think part of the issue is that while Zenith has an iconic movement, the El Primero, I'm not sure they really have an iconic model, and that diffuses demand (which compromises resale value). This is also the reason why the sports model Rolexes have better resale than the Datejusts, because there are relatively few design variants in the sports model, but there is a mind bogging number of variants of Datejusts.
Zenith definitely has my respect. Manufacture movements across the board, and the El Primero is one of the most storied chronograph movements ever produced. And it still will be if they make it another 50 years...
OK I'm biased because I own a few Zeniths, but honestly you don't have to dig too far on WUS to see they enjoy a lot of respect among most of the community. The El Primero is a well proven, robust, true manufacture movement with a great history. The finish of Zenith watches, and particularly the dials, is certainly among the very best at their price point. If you like the style, I can't imagine you being disappointed.
Less money for a watch of quality with a history second to none,what is wrong with that?
Zenith have won more prizes for their watches than any other manufacture.
Zenith is my favourite brand despite not owning one.
I think it is fair to say that Zenith has not produced an iconic model but name me a movement more iconic than the El Primero?
Zenith does get the respect it deserves here and I do believe it is a brand that is above Omega/Rolex but below JLC/GO.
They make a beautiful range of watches and their pricing is extremely good value.
Additionally they make some pieces which are incredible;
Perhaps the OP was alluding to relative unknown status of Zenith beyond the watch community. Watch forums and blogs are full of people drooling over Zenith (myself included) but the brand remains relatively unknown to the world at large. I could easily drive myself to bankruptcy with Zenith.
The same could be said of Patek, JLC, and any other number of high end brands. Just because a brand doesn't enjoy recognition with the general population, doesn't really say anything about the brand itself, good or bad. Just like any other niche market.
I think if anything Zenith gets too much respect around WUS. They make watches that have a unique look and are polarizing for sure. Fanboys love em. Don't get me wrong they make good watches but the El Primero history lessons get to be a bit much.
The Chronomaster Moon Phase model is a perfect size and aesthetic, was extremely well finished and is a lovely watch to wear. Day and month are a little small to read comfortably if you need reading glasses, but otherwise is perfect.
I'm a fan. I'm wearing a chronomaster today. I just think they aren't as well known to the general public. They are much smaller than the lesser known brands. They also went through a period of odd styling choices in the not so distant past that lost them some of their dedicated fans.
That is probably the best looking watch Zenith makes right now. I ALMOST bought one a year ago but talked myself out of it because I rely on having a date so much.
Zenith rocks! One day, hopefully, I will get to own a Zenith that is powered by an El Primero movement. For now, I have my Sellita-powered Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special.
Nice Zeniths, but you should have started a new thread instead of rehashing a year old thread, who's title really is ridiculous in the WIS world. All WIS respect Zenith.
A must read for all who would like to know more about Zenith.
After reading the sticky, I came to truly understand and appreciate the brand... which enabled me to get a Zenith of my own as well.
If you really think about Omega and Rolex's commercial success, I think you'd agree that aside from a strong narrative in their watches and/or movement, they had very strong marketing behind it.
I think Zenith like many others like simply focused on designing and producing watches, had their sights narrowly on a few watch loving customers, and vastly neglected the commercial potential of global proportions.
I can't believe that in 3 pages, no one has mentioned troll.
I'll feed the troll a little. I have had my eye on a vintage one for sometime and just need to pull the funds together to get it before it gets away. Yeah... you must be new here..., huh?
Not every watch brand can have the following of Rolex or Omega. I'm sure we can fill the forums with respectable brands someone finds in not getting enough respect. I can't recall of anyone complaining about Zenith. That I think says all that needs to be said given this is the internets.
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