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This is my first Zenith!

lonemian
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I picked it up on eBay recently. the coffin looking index and well-balanced sub second took my heart at the first sight, so I paid 190$ without much thought....

However, I’d like to know the model ref. interestingly it has no star logo... is it old model? what logo should it have? I’m thinking about buying aftermarket zenith crown for the current generic one.
 
Tony C.
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Yes, it is an old model. No reference number, only the serial numbers on case and movement.

Unfortunately the upper case is chrome, but you did not pay a lot for it. It is possible that the watch was produced before the star crowns were used.
 
lonemian
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Tony C. Tony C.
Unfortunately the upper case is chrome, but you did not pay a lot for it.

Thank you so much for the input! as a noob, I’m curious to know 1. why chrome plating matter and 2. the reasonable price of this one(I paid $205 including shipping.)
 
CaptainWinsor
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Some of the older models have stars on the dial some don’t. Same with crowns. Ref numbers are hard to find unless you have old catalogs/advertisements or get an extract
Edited:
 
Tony C.
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lonemian lonemian
Thank you so much for the input! as a noob, I’m curious to know 1. why chrome plating matter and 2. the reasonable price of this one(I paid $205 including shipping.)

You are welcome. Chrome plating was used as a (cheaper) alternative to steel, and especially in the 1940s when there were restrictions on steel usage due to WWII. It is disliked by collectors as it is not as durable as steel, and looks somewhat cheap in comparison. You can see the corrosion on the back of the lugs of your watch.

Given the good condition of the top of the case, dial, and movement, you appear to have paid a fair price. But as you haven't provided any photos of the back of the case, that assessment may be a bit generous.
 
lonemian
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Tony C. Tony C.
You are welcome. Chrome plating was used as a (cheaper) alternative to steel, and especially in the 1940s when there were restrictions on steel usage due to WWII. It is disliked by collectors as it is not as durable as steel, and looks somewhat cheap in comparison. You can see the corrosion on the back of the lugs of your watch.

Thanks for the lesson to such a noob! Surprised to know the steel usage restriction during ww2. I consulted with my watchmen, saying $80 for re-coating the case with Rhodium but not sure about the value (the appearance, durability, etc). Should I go for re-coat? or go as-is with quick aid(eg. applying silver color nail coat on the corroded side)?

Thanks for enlightening watch primitive 😜

View attachment 826127
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Tony C.
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I'd leave the case as is. It looks good enough on the wrist.

Do get the movement serviced, though, assuming that you plan to wear the watch with some regularity.
 
Walrus
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You will probably pay more or a little under what you paid for the watch to get it serviced. But you picked up a decent Zenith for 190 to add to your collection. I probably would have done the same
 
Strangedream
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Welcome to the club! My first watch was a Zenith too, I thought it would be great to start a collection with a watch that's literally called "the first".
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