The Legendary G.F.J. Calibre 135 Returns In A New Zenith x Naoya Hida Collaboration

As part of its 160th-anniversary celebrations, Zenith unveils the G.F.J. Calibre 135 Double Signed with Naoya Hida & Co., the inaugural release of the manufacture’s new Double Signed Program. This exclusive collaboration brings together Zenith’s historic watchmaking expertise and the refined aesthetic approach of the Japanese independent brand Naoya Hida & Co., resulting in a limited edition that highlights both precision engineering and traditional craftsmanship.

Limited to only 10 pieces, the watch pairs the legendary Calibre 135 with a dial inspired by the meticulous design philosophy that has earned Naoya Hida & Co. a devoted following among collectors.

Platinum Case with Elegant Proportions

The G.F.J. Calibre 135 Double Signed with Naoya Hida & Co. is housed in a platinum case measuring 39.15 mm in diameter and 10.50 mm thick. Its design remains faithful to the elegant character of the G.F.J. collection, featuring a slim polished bezel, stepped lugs, and balanced proportions that reinforce its classic dress-watch appeal. The watch offers 50 meters of water resistance and is fitted with a sapphire crystal caseback that reveals the movement within.

A Silver Dial Enhanced by Traditional Japanese Artistry

The collaboration’s most distinctive feature is its dial, crafted from solid silver and infused with elements closely associated with Naoya Hida & Co.’s understated design language. The dial displays hand-engraved numerals, markers, and signatures created by master engraver Keisuke Kano. These engravings are filled with traditional Japanese urushi lacquer, producing a deep blue hue that often appears almost black depending on the angle of the light.

The attention to detail extends to the hands. The hour and minute hands are machined from solid gold and individually hand-polished, while the small seconds hand at 6 o’clock is crafted from heat-blued steel. Together, these elements create a restrained yet highly sophisticated appearance that emphasizes texture, depth, and craftsmanship rather than bold contrasts.

The Return of a Legendary Chronometer Movement

At the heart of the watch is the modern interpretation of Zenith’s renowned Calibre 135. Originally developed by Ephrem Jobin in 1948, the movement was designed specifically for observatory chronometry competitions and went on to become one of the most successful precision calibres in watchmaking history.

The contemporary version remains faithful to the architecture that made the original famous. It retains the oversized balance wheel and large mainspring barrel that were fundamental to its chronometric performance, while also preserving the Breguet overcoil hairspring and Charles Fleck’s distinctive double-arrow regulator system. Operating at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour, the hand-wound movement now delivers an extended power reserve of 72 hours and incorporates modern upgrades such as a stop-seconds mechanism for more precise time setting and enhanced shock resistance.

Each movement is regulated by Zenith to achieve an accuracy of +/-2 seconds per day before receiving COSC chronometer certification. Visible through the sapphire caseback, the calibre showcases a high level of finishing, including broad Geneva stripes, hand-finished bevels, a dark ruthenium treatment, and gold-coloured engravings that highlight the movement’s blend of historical authenticity and contemporary craftsmanship.

Three Straps Showcasing Japanese Craftsmanship

The watch is delivered with three interchangeable straps, each reflecting a different aspect of Japanese artisanal tradition. Owners receive a Himeji Kurozan leather strap finished with traditional urushi lacquer, a handcrafted Wagyu leather strap produced in Kyoto, and a deep indigo strap made from Japanese Kaihara denim. All three are secured by a platinum pin buckle engraved with the G.F.J. initials.

Availability and Price

The Zenith G.F.J. Calibre 135 Double Signed with Naoya Hida & Co. is limited to just 10 pieces worldwide and has a retail price of CHF 58,900.

Bringing together one of the most celebrated chronometer movements ever produced and the meticulous craftsmanship of Naoya Hida & Co., this exclusive edition offers a distinctive interpretation of Zenith’s anniversary collection while paying tribute to both Swiss precision and Japanese artisanal traditions.

Read more at www.zenith-watches.com.

General Specifications:

Brand: Zenith

Model: G.F.J. Calibre 135 Double Signed with Naoya Hida & Co.

Reference: 40.1865-2.0135/01.C220

Dial: Solid silver

Lume: No

Case Material: 950 Platinum

Case Dimensions: 39.15 mm Diameter, 10.50 mm thickness, 45.75 mm lug-to-lug

Crystal: Sapphire Glass

Water Resistance: 50 Meters

Strap: Himeji Kurozan leather strap, plus Kyoto-crafted Wagyu leather strap and Japanese Kaihara denim strap 

Caliber: 135

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds

Winding: Hand-wound

Frequency: 2.5 Hz (18,000 Vph)

Power Reserve: 72 Hours

Chronometer Certified: Yes, by COSC

Price: CHF 58,900

Availability: Now

Limited Edition: Yes, 10 pieces