A RARE WWI MEN'S ZENITH 9K ROSE GOLD MANUAL WATCH
Trench dust and waterproof.

Brand: Zenith dust and waterproof trench watch
Year: Circa 1915
Movement: Manual, high regulator balance, compensated balance
Dial: White ceramic, black and red Roman numerals, black outer minute division, blued spade hands, subsidiary dial for seconds at the six o'clock position
Material: 9k rose gold
Signed: Movement
Dimension: 35mm

During the First World War, the wristwatch as we know it today was born out of necessity. Traditional pocket watches were impractical on the battlefield, leading soldiers and officers to adopt wrist-worn timepieces, which became known as trench watches. These early military wristwatches were adapted from pocket watch designs but featured essential modifications: sturdy wire lugs for a strap, a highly legible enamel dial, and in some cases, improved dust and moisture protection for harsh wartime conditions.

This Zenith trench watch, dating to circa 1915, is an exceptional example from the pioneering years of military wristwatches. Encased in 9k yellow gold with a 35mm case, it was likely an officer’s watch—a refined yet highly functional timepiece that blends Swiss precision with early military wristwatch innovation. Unlike standard hinged cases of the era, this watch features a screw-down bezel, an early attempt at making a more dust- and moisture-resistant wristwatch before fully waterproof designs were developed

By 1914, Zenith was already one of Switzerland’s most respected watchmakers, supplying precision timepieces for military and civilian use. During WWI, Zenith played a crucial role in producing high-quality wristwatches for British and Allied officers, applying its expertise in movement-making to the rapidly evolving wristwatch market.

While many trench watches were housed in silver or nickel cases, gold-cased examples were rare, often purchased privately by high-ranking officers or gentlemen desiring a refined yet practical timepiece. The screw-down bezel design seen in this watch was ahead of its time, anticipating later waterproof case developments like the Rolex Oyster in the 1920s.