ZENITH | COMPAX, REF 125 03 YELLOW GOLD CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCHCIRCA 1950

Dial: silveredCalibre: cal. 156 manual winding, 17 jewels Case: 18k yellow gold, snap-on backCase number: 739'941Dimensions: 36.5 mm Signed: case, dial and movementAccessories: presentation case

MVT: running at the time of cataloguing. Chronograph starts and stops and resets. CASE: in very good overall condition, with light surface wear throughout and very sharp bevels and engravings. With one discrete and small dent between the lugs at 12 o'clock, where the fixed strap bar is slightly bent. DIAL: in very good overall condition with slight surface marks to the 3 and 6 o'clock registers. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The present yellow gold Zenith Compax chronograph is a fantastic example of the 1950s design and technology. Its initial sporty appearance is rendered by the sharp and faceted large case, manufactured by Henri Jeanneret in Peseux (maker's make number 166). The oversized chronograph counters on an uncluttered and legible dial are similar to those fitted by Universal Genève during the same period. The high-grade calibre 156H was coincidentally manufactured by Universal Genève / Martel, and is more collectible than its bicompax movement counterpart.
This wonderfully preserved and rare chronograph is offered with its original presentation case, making this lot a very compelling opportunity for any chronograph enthusiast interested in what many collectors refer to as 'The Golden Age' of chronograph manufacturing.