Leap into modernity
While Zenith enjoyed enormous success with the El Primero and its calibres in the 1960s, the factory founded in 1865 had a difficult time during the quartz crisis, as did most other manufacturers. With the Zenith Elite collection, the Le Locle-based company was able to lay the foundations for the new era of mechanical watches. The Elite 680 calibre presented in 1994 is the most famous movement in the collection. It is still used today in numerous models and was even used in some Panerai Radiomir models between 2000 and 2003 due to its excellent characteristics.
The most popular models
Over time, various versions of the Zenith Elite Automatic have been produced. One of the most popular models is the 40-millimetre Zenith Elite Ultra Thin, which was launched in 2010 and promises excellent wearing comfort thanks to its ultra-flat design. The Zenith Elite Classic, which is available in 40.5 and 36-millimetre sizes, is also extremely popular. This model has a slightly more chic look and features a so-called Soleil gouilloché pattern radiating from the centre of the dial.