Condition and all original preserved would alone be an understatement for such a rare and unusual , jumbo sized semi hooded Zenith caliber 106.

Especially for its entirely stainless steel case construction which cost way more in the 1930's than had it been a solid gold or silver case , as it was quite expensive and difficult to make cases out of stainless steel back then.
Very cool regulator too ;) This was a great local hunt buy back in Italy and to this day I wouldn't trade it over a generic steel Patek with a nice but not so extra ordinary borgel case.

For historical perspective, this was a shifting period for Zenith as a manufacturer , just 10 years prior the company was still small employing less than 1,000 people total , and whilst they were using the same Compax caliber UG/Martel developed , it was a time when they weren't sure where their level was and manufacturing level ranged. It did not have the household name or mainstream recognition as a mid-tier signature sports watch company we got to know since the 1960's , because of this , mythical and horologically important pieces like this could be found like unicorns from the period.


Fantastic write-up, Dennis! I love the history and detail you put into your written pieces like that one about the Estrella UG from Manila. I look forward to more great stuff, brother. I hope get well soon!
Dennis, I really love the history you share here man! Just amazing! As a brand, these Zeniths are incredible!
Amazing write up as always my man