A 1950s Zenith from the family known as “Stellina” (“little star”), after the five-pointed star logo that appears below the 12. This example stands out for its black dial.
The model
On the black dial the gilt indices and Arabic numerals stand out, with the 12, 3 and 9 emphasised, and the small seconds register at 6 o’clock: a layout typical of Zenith watches of those years. The stainless steel case measures 37 mm, a generous size for the period, close to the so-called “Jumbo” watches. The crystal is acrylic (plexiglass) and the strap is reptile-effect.
The movement
The movement is the manual-winding Zenith calibre 40, one of the manufacture’s historic calibres, produced roughly between the mid-1940s and the late 1950s. Zenith watches of this period are appreciated by collectors precisely for the reliability and finishing of their in-house movements.
Technical details
| Brand | Zenith |
|---|---|
| Model | Stellina |
| Movement | Manual winding, Zenith calibre 40 |
| Case | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 37 mm |
| Period | 1950s |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, small seconds at 6 o’clock |
| Crystal | Acrylic (plexiglass) |
| Strap | Reptile-effect |
