[FSOT] ZRC - Grands fonds 300 - MK1 vintage - tropical dial

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ZRC was founded in 1904 while its most recognized design ultimately came in 1960. In the early 1960s, Louis BRUNET and the Annecy diving team with the support of local figures such as Louis SERVETAZ, launched plans for an affordable and efficient diving watch. PASTRE & DIGNE, watchmakers in Toulon, diving watch specialists contributed wholeheartedly to the creation of the Grands Fonds 300 which will be immediately approved by the French Navy.

After several months of tests, the Navy asked ZRC to “modify” few things such as the 3 o’clock crown too vulnerable during the underwater manipulations. The Navy as well asked for a “smart” sizable metal band system together with a mean to protect the crown without impeding wrist movement and above all, to ensure it could not open underwater. The team set work and developed the famous 6 o’clock crown, connected to the case using an exclusive system consisting of a canon cut from a single block, making the Grands Fonds 300 the first watch to be equipped with a 100% Monobloc case. Furthermore, the case is machined in a particular type of steel reinforced with molybdenum that is completely antimagnetic (an absolute necessity for Mine Clearance Divers’ group).

All watches therefore underwent a test period, being trailed in all possible conditions of “military-related harsh use”. The STCM in Paris approved the new equipment and entered it into the general equipment catalogue for the commissariat, attributing it the 6645 family member for deep sea diving watch.

Motored with the 2472 ETA movement, the GF300 is more than reliable. Its super luminous MAGNUM hands provide a perfect legibility underwater. Revolutionary watch under many ways, the GF300 was issued to the Paris firefighter department as well as the French water skiing team. But it was above all the watch of the French Navy (Toulon diving school, 3rd division of Toulon Mine Clearance Group, the Hubert Commando) as well as the Italian Navy. It was also adopted by non-military units supported by the French Navy, including the famous CALYPSO of Commander COUSTEAU, which took the watch around the world and firmly established its reputation.

This specific example is in great shape and has been serviced recently. It displays a lot of character and beautiful patina.

Date : 1960s
Movement: Original ETA 2472
Dial: Tropical Black dial
Case: Brushed and polished, the case is in fair condition. It does have a few scratches. Screw down case back. The Bakelite bezel has been professionally Redone in the past, extra one in mint condition available on demand.
Strap/Bracelet: Original ZRC bracelet
Buckle/Clasp: Original ZRC clasp
Signed: Case, dial & movement
Size: 36mm
Accessories: None

Offered at: $4950

All our prices are displayed in USD !

Many worldwide references available We are always open to trades for Rolex modern and vintages. You’re welcome to come meet us in Montreal

For questions please call/text Us : 514-621-6184
Email: [email protected]

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All our watches are guaranteed authentic.

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