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Zenith

A complicated watch vs. a throughbred high end timekeeper

 

Using a very strict definition, a complication is a mechanism which is added to the base timekeeping mechanism, but has nothing to with it or its performance per se. In this sense, the constant force mechanism of the Zenith Academy George Favre Jacot is not a complication, at least not a real one...

Thus, I consider the Zenith as a highly sophisticated precision timekeeper with an extremely refined and highly developed movement. It represents one of the finest specimens of what should (but certainly no longer is) be watchmaking's core competence. The sophistication is carryed over to the winding mechanism and its haptic feel (thanks to the fusée and chaine). Winding it is believing!

The Zenith is a prime example for the fact that a movement without complication can indeed be very elaborate and complicated to make. A complicated watch on the flip side could easily be mass produced...

The Lange Zeitwerk however is a true complication as the mechanism of the digital time indication does not add anything to timekeeping performance (to the contrary, if at all).  It is a chariming, entertaining and highly recognisable timepiece.

In my view both timepieces complement each other very well.

Difficult to come to a conclusion...

Hope this helps!
Magnus

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9 Comments view entire thread 

This or That ?

 
By: scarface27 : May 25th, 2015-21:49
Hey Guys In the market for a nice classic piece but would like to get something with a real complication. Have zeroed in on the following - a. Lange Zeitwerk b. Zenith Academy George Favre Jacot (the constant force) Appreciate your thoughts on what to go ... 

A complicated watch vs. a throughbred high end timekeeper

 
By: Ornatus-Mundi : May 26th, 2015-08:44
Using a very strict definition, a complication is a mechanism which is added to the base timekeeping mechanism, but has nothing to with it or its performance per se. In this sense, the constant force mechanism of the Zenith Academy George Favre Jacot is n... 

I've seen the Zenith here in Hong Kong...

 
By: Dave G : May 28th, 2015-18:05
and I own the Zeiwerk. It is a big watch by Lange standards, but quite wearable. To me the finish is superb and the complication quite extraordinary. I think either is a good choice. Dave

Now that is a tough one....

 
By: andrewluff : May 27th, 2015-06:04
They are 2 totally different watches and to be honest I have for a long time been a fan of the Zeitwerk and recently of the Zeitwerk Striking.... BUT.... If I had to chose just one which would it be... Why? I love the fusee, the multi depth dial, stunning...  

If I were in your position.... (which I am NOT!)....

 
By: KIH : May 27th, 2015-07:08
.. I would go for Zenith. I used to like Lange watches, but Zeitwerk is not what Lange is about, IMVHO. From that point on, Lange has changed to the worse, again, IMHO. Zeitwerk specifically, looks like a toy. A very heavy and thick toy on your wrist. I a... 

Good problem to have! :)

 
By: jrwong23 (aka watchthebin) : May 27th, 2015-07:16
I love Langes and am a fan of the brand. On the contrary, to be completely honest, I am not a fan of Zenith but that\'s mostly because I am not familiar with the brand. However, for Langes, the Zeitwerk is the least appealing to me from a looks standpoint... 

For me the choice is very clear

 
By: Mitch K : May 27th, 2015-13:57
I agree with the comments above. I think that Zenith has significantly upped thier game with the Academy line of watches. I have seen the George Favre Jacot and am very taken by it. The fusee chain is fascinating and carries with it a historically signifi...