By: Roger Ruegger
Following the uber-successful re-editions of the Cal. 135 in 2025 and 2022, Zenith has unveiled the next chapter of this collection “dedicated to pure chronometry” at Watches and Wonders 2026: Named after the initials of founder Georges Favre-Jacot, the G.F.J. is available in a new limited edition of 161 pieces in yellow gold with bloodstone dial, and 20 pieces in tantalum with baguette-cut diamond indexes on a black onyx dial.
From the late 19th century onward, Zenith competed in observatory chronometry competitions, earning a record 2,333 prizes. At the heart of this stood the Calibre 135. Produced between 1949 and 1962, the Cal. 135 was developed specifically for chronometry trials. Its competition version, the 135-O, earned 235 chronometry prizes, including five consecutive first prizes at the Neuchâtel Observatory from 1950 to 1954: A record that remains unmatched.
The re-engineered Calibre 135 of today preserves its 13-ligne diameter (30mm), 18,000 vph frequency and architecture, its oversized balance wheel and offset center wheel. The barrel, however, now delivers 72 hours of power reserve, and the gear train has been optimized for greater efficiency. Each movement is regulated to +/- 2 seconds per day and is officially certified by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC).
The 39.5-mm case is either crafted in yellow gold or tantalum. Beneath the sapphire box crystal, the dial combines different textures and materials: A central disc, either in Onyx or in bloodstone, whose natural veining and inclusions ensure that no two dials are ever identical. An oversized small seconds counter at 6 o’clock in mother-of-pearl, and a peripheral guilloché sector inspired by the brick façade of the manufacture in Le Locle.
Released in a limited edition of 20 and 161 pieces, the two latest versions of the G.F.J are available for pre-order exclusively from the brand’s physical and online boutiques, as well as through authorized retailers worldwide.
Ref.: “Bloodstone” (Ref. 30.1865.0135/56.C216), “Onyx” (Ref. 98.1865.0135/21.C212)
Dimensions: ⌀ 39 mm
Case: Tantalum (Onyx) or yellow gold (Bloodstone)
Water Resistance: 50 m
Movement: Cal. 135 with 72 hours of power reserve
Strap: alligator
Warranty: 24 months (plus 36 when registered online)
Price: in gold: $51,900; in tantalum: $83,400
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