Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a rare early 1970s Zodiac Automatic Chronograph housed in a stainless steel cushion case bearing reference 1153. It shares the exact case architecture, reverse-panda dial layout, and legendary micro-rotor Calibre 11/12 movement developed jointly by Heuer, Breitling, Hamilton-Buren, and Dubois-Dépraz, private-labeled under the Zodiac name.
Story
In 1969, Swiss watch giants covertly teamed up to win the race to build the first automatic chronograph. Heuer shared the groundbreaking micro-rotor design with Zodiac, creating this stunning racing chronograph.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1882 in Le Locle, Switzerland by Ariste Calame, Zodiac built a sterling reputation for precision sports and tool watches like the Sea Wolf. During the late 1960s and 1970s, Zodiac partnered with Heuer to market automatic chronographs using Heuer's advanced cases and movements under their own historic banner.
Condition & Value
The watch shows honest vintage wear with light surface scratches on the stainless steel case, crystal, and signed bracelet clasp. The dial and hands show attractive, even aging to the tritium lume plots. Minor servicing or crystal polishing would easily restore luster without compromising vintage integrity.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.