Antique c.1930s ZENITH 0.800 Silver Pocket Watch – German Navy U-Boat Submarine

We are exceptionally proud to offer this museum-quality, incredibly rare antique Zenith pocket watch, custom-commissioned for a German Submarine (U-Boat) Officer circa the 1930s. Housed in a solid 0.800 silver case, this timepiece represents a fascinating intersection of elite Swiss horology and 20th-century naval military history.

Zenith was heavily relied upon by various militaries for their unrivaled precision, having won the Grand Prix Paris 1900. This specific watch was uniquely crafted to honor the service of a German naval officer in the submarine fleet, featuring bespoke, highly symbolic enamel work that you will rarely—if ever—find on the open market.

During the 1930s, the German Navy underwent significant modernization, with a particular point of pride being its formidable submarine fleet. This watch serves as a prestigious presentation piece, embodying the naval traditions of the era:

• “Gott mit uns”: Prominently displayed in striking Gothic script across the top of the dial, this translates to “God with us.” This historic motto has deep roots in the Prussian military and was a standard inscription on German military belt buckles and regalia for over a century.

• The Submarine Motif: Positioned directly beneath the Zenith signature is a beautifully detailed, crisp illustration of a German U-Boat, indicating this piece was specifically awarded to or commissioned by a submarine commander or elite officer.

• The Iron Cross Sub-Dial: The seconds register at the 6 o’clock position is dominated by the iconic Iron Cross (Schwarzes Kreuz), a traditional and highly respected German military decoration for valor dating back to 1813.

Detailed Specifications

The Dial

• Condition: Flawless. Brilliant white enamel with zero visible hairlines, chips, or cracks.

• Features: Bold Arabic numerals, the bespoke U-Boat illustration, the “Gott mit uns” inscription, and the Iron Cross seconds sub-dial.

• Hands: Original ornate cathedral/spade hands showing a beautiful, authentic patina and oxidation commensurate with nearly a century of age, contrasting magnificently against the pristine enamel.

The Case

• Material: Solid 0.800 Silver (hallmarked appropriately inside the case back).

• Dimensions: 48mm in diameter (excluding the crown and bow)—a substantial, masculine size perfect for an officer.

• Exterior Back: Features a beautiful, unmonogrammed shield cartouche surrounded by elegant scrollwork, intentionally left blank.

• Inner Cuvette (Dust Cover): Highly decorated with Zenith’s exhibition medals. Elegantly engraved with: Grand Prix Paris 1900, Medaille D’Or Geneve 1896, Ancre, Levees Visibles Double Plateau, 15 Rubis, Balancier Compense, Spiral Breguet.

• Markings: Zenith hallmark, silver purity stamps (0.800, Y), and serial numbers (3088911 / 3602).

The Movement

• Caliber: High-grade Swiss Zenith manual-wind mechanical movement.

• Condition: Gleaming gold-gilt finish, exceptionally clean and well-preserved.

• Details: 15 Jewels (Rubis), compensated balance wheel, and a Breguet overcoil hairspring. The regulator features micro-adjustment capabilities, showcasing the chronometer-grade engineering Zenith is famous for. Movement serial number: 2189714.

Condition Report

This watch is in excellent, collector-grade condition. The solid silver case exhibits only light, superficial surface wear consistent with careful carrying. The hinges are tight, and the covers snap shut securely. The enamel dial is practically perfect. The movement is bright, clean, and functioning beautifully. 

Terms of Sale & Shipping

• Photos: Please examine all high-resolution macro photographs carefully, as they constitute a major part of the description.

• Shipping: Shipped fully insured with signature confirmation required upon delivery. International buyers are responsible for any applicable customs duties or import taxes.

• Returns: Accepted within 60 days; the item must be returned in the exact condition it was sent.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $2500