Zodiac was founded in 1882 as a specialised watchmakers under the management of Ariste Calame. Starting with the creation of the 'Zodiac' pocket watch, the firm's namesake was patented in 1908 and began to create wristwatches from the early 20th century.
In 1953, the Zodiac 'Sea Wolf' was launched, a significant timepiece as this was one of the first diver's watches to be manufactured for the general public. This piece was a huge sucess and iconic for the brand, with variations to follow including the Aerospace (with an additional 24 hour GMT hand) and the Super Sea Wolf.
Without a doubt, Zodiac chronograph wristwatches from the 1960s featuring an eye-catching 'panda' dial sell exceptionally well at auction. The rare Clebar-Zodiac chronograph with a cal. 72 Valjoux movement has fetched amongst the highest hammer prices for a Zodiac watch. Meanwhile, brightly coloured and iconic diver's watches within the 'Sea Wolf' and 'Sea-Chron' lines also attract much interest from keen collectors worldwide.
Gold cocktail and dress watches made and worn from the mid 20th century onwards also command high prices, and are largely worn nowadays as wonderful dress watches.
Complications, as ever, demand a high value at auction, and examples with 'World Time', moon phase, and triple calendar capabilities certainly catch the eye of collectors. For a free, confidential and up-to-date auction valuation, reach out to our expert team.
Our specialist Fine Jewellery & Watch auctions are held four times a year and include the whole spectrum of watches, from fob watches, bracelet watches, chronograph watches, military watches and dress watches. Our department is headed by Liz Bailey who is FGA and DGA qualified, with many years experience in the industry. We offer a free watch valuations service both online and through in-house valuation appointments.
Contact our qualified specialist Liz Bailey to find out more.
The knowledge and passion of our experienced team enables us to achieve top prices for our vendors. For a free, no-obligation valuation complete the form below or click to find out how to sell in our auctions.
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