Zenith Favre-Leuba & Co. - 1930s Motorcycle Racing Watch

Zenith Retailed by Favre-Leuba & Co. – A Rare 1930s Motorcycle Racing Watch Step back into the 1930s with this extraordinarily rare and innovative wristwatch, crafted by Zenith and retailed by Favre-Leuba & Co., a historic Swiss watch retailer.  Specifically designed for motorcycle racing enthusiasts, it features a 90-degree tilted dial, allowing effortless time-reading while riding with fully extended arms. Adding to its allure, the dial is double-signed by both Zenith and Favre-Leuba, marking its exceptional provenance. Historical Significance This watch stands as a testament to the ingenuity of 1930s watchmaking, where design met functionality to cater to a niche audience-motorcycle racers. The tilted dial design was a revolutionary concept, prioritizing practical utility for riders while maintaining the elegance of a wristwatch. Its double-signed dial, featuring both Zenith and Favre-Leuba, further enhances its collectibility, showcasing the unique practice of branding watches by their retailer. With virtually no other examples available online, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a truly unique and museum-worthy piece. Key Features   • Brand: Zenith, retailed by Favre-Leuba & Co. • Reference: 8132726 • Circa: 1930 • Case Material: "Staybrite" stainless steel, a durable and corrosion-resistant alloy • Case Dimensions: 30mm diameter • Design: • Top Winder: Crown located at 3 o’clock, embedded between the lugs for a sleek and functional design. • 90° Tilted Dial: Lugs positioned at 3 and 9 o’clock, enabling optimal visibility during motorcycle rides. • Case Construction: Tonneau-shaped 3-body design with cut sides, stylized straight horns, and clipped steel back. • Dial: • White enamel with black painted "Breguet" railway and Arabic numerals. • Double-Signed: Dial proudly displays both "Favre-Leuba & Co." and "Zenith," highlighting its rarity and heritage. • Blued steel lance hands. (Note: slight surface crack visible on the dial, consistent with age.) • Movement: Manual-winding movement signed Zenith Cal. 12.1, renowned for its reliability and precision. • Strap: Antique brown Bentex leather strap with a steel pin buckle, perfectly complementing the vintage aesthetic.   Condition   • Case: Well-preserved "Staybrite" steel case with minor wear, commensurate with its age. • Dial: Displays a surface cracks and a slight crater at 3 oclock, adding character to its vintage allure. • Movement: Fully serviced and in stable working condition, ensuring reliability for daily use. • Strap: Antique leather strap in excellent condition.   Why Add This Watch to Your Collection?   • Rare Design: The 90° tilted dial and top-winder crown make this watch a standout piece in any collection. • Double-Signed Dial: A rare feature that emphasizes its unique history and provenance. • Unmatched Rarity: Virtually no other examples of this reference are listed on the internet, making it a true collector’s gem.