Zenith Partners With J.N. Shapiro for New Double Signed Watch
The Swiss watchmaker collaborates with American artisan J.N. Shapiro on a limited edition timepiece.
1Reviving Historical Dual Branding
Zenith continues its Double Signed program, a strategic initiative reviving the tradition of watches featuring two makers' names. Following a successful collaboration with Tokyo-based Naoya Hida, the Swiss manufacturer has partnered with American independent watchmaker J.N. Shapiro. This project highlights the historical significance of the Calibre 135 movement within modern horology.
2Artisanal California Craftsmanship
The dial for this limited edition was produced entirely in J.N. Shapiro’s California workshop using traditional rose-engine and straight-line machines. It features three distinct hand-cut guilloché patterns: barleycorn, basketweave, and the signature Infinity Weave. These textures are complemented by 18k rose gold rings and markers, creating a unique aesthetic blend.
3American Flair Meets Swiss Engineering
Unlike previous iterations, this collaboration extends beyond the dial to the movement itself. The hand-wound Calibre 135 bridges are decorated with damaskeening, a technique combining Côtes de Genève stripes with guilloché patterns. This design choice pays homage to antique American pocket watches, effectively bridging Swiss precision with distinct American decorative heritage.
4Technical Specifications of Calibre 135
The re-engineered Calibre 135 operates at a frequency of 2.5 Hz and includes a large variable-inertia balance. It features a Breguet overcoil and a double arrow-shaped regulator, providing a 72-hour power reserve. The movement is officially COSC-certified, ensuring high precision within a tolerance of plus or minus two seconds per day.
5Case Design and Dimensions
The timepiece is housed in a 39mm rose gold case that measures 10.5mm in thickness. It offers water resistance up to 50 meters and features a sapphire caseback, allowing owners to view the intricate damaskeened movement. The watch comes with three strap options, including brown Cordovan, beige nubuck alligator, and black calf.
6Limited Production and Pricing
Production of the Zenith G.F.J. Calibre 135 Double Signed with J.N. Shapiro is strictly limited to 25 examples worldwide. The watch is priced at 68,900 CHF, which is approximately 82,824 USD. Interested collectors can also request an 18k rose gold bracelet to replace the standard leather strap options provided with the watch.
7The Legacy of Georges Favre-Jacot
Both releases in this series are built on the G.F.J. platform, named after Zenith founder Georges Favre-Jacot. This platform serves as the modern home for the Calibre 135, historically recognized as the most decorated observatory chronometer movement. By utilizing this base, Zenith emphasizes its commitment to preserving its most significant technical achievements.
8Strategic Market Positioning
This collaboration signals Zenith’s focus on the high-end independent watchmaking segment. By integrating the work of artisans like Joshua Shapiro, the brand appeals to collectors who value both historical Swiss movements and unique, hand-finished components. This approach differentiates the brand in a competitive luxury market by emphasizing craftsmanship over mass production.
Original article: Hypebeast — Zenith Partners With J.N. Shapiro for New Double Signed Watch