Boasting the evocative SECURICODE name these three vintage-inspired brothers, cut from the same cloth of bygone sensibility and modern innovation vie for our attention –
with three distinct looks made in various materials thus branching out with a new and exciting offshoot from ZRC’s family tree.
As ZRC forges ahead with its journey of a modern reinterpretation with the iconic Grands Fonds S1, a new challenge has steered them into uncharted waters where the promise of discovery and adventure awaits.
ZRC’s story began in 1958 when the French Navy issued a call for tenders for the production of deep-sea diving watches. This information was passed on to Louis BRUNET, CEO of ZRC.
At that time, the brand was, among other things, specialized in the manufacture of water-resistant cases. Quickly, the excitement spread through ZRC’s workshops.
A study launched for the Annecy Lake firefighter divers helped to strengthen the presentation to the Navy.
The final prototype of the S1, equipped with a FELSA 4000, was presented in 1959. Tested for nearly 6 months, the S1 was finally approved by the Navy, giving birth to the first ZRC diver’s watch.
The S1 stands out with an attractive time only presentation on its dial, where the “guilloché” indexes feature an elegant, slender leaf shape enhanced by its classic diver’s bezel. The uncluttered design provides precise time-reading.
In 1965, the SECURICODE made waves as the very first diving watch capable of providing advanced immersion times at various depths.
It retained the effective aesthetics of the S1, and the name SECURICODE became iconic after winning 1st prize at the 11th Inventors’ Exhibition in Brussels.
For 2024, ZRC reconnects with its bold design and celebrates the jubilee of the S1 with a collection, bearing the emblematic SECURICODE name.
All SECURICODE models feature the S1’s historic Magnum-type hands and a lollipop second hand, adorned with beige or green Super-LumiNova® depending on the version.
Their black dials in solid “guilloché” brass are topped with a blue anti-reflective sapphire crystal, which take on marine hues in the sunlight. This evocation of oceanic color makes it easy to read in all conditions.
For uncompromising versatility and to be worn on both men’s and women’s wrists, all SECURICODE watches combine their vintage personality with certified water-resistance to a depth of 300 meters (30 bars), thanks to a 39mm case combined with the brand’s renowned engineered deformation case-back.
With the SECURICODE Diver 300, ZRC marks the grand return of its very first diving watch.
SECURICODE Diver 300 Steel: Its double-thickness “guilloché” brass dial integrates a stainless steel case with a bezel and insert machined from the same material. The whole has a circular brushed finish, just like the original models.
This contemporary reinterpretation is accompanied by a resolutely retro-chic expansion band bearing ZRC signature. The hands are powered by a high-performance SW200-1 automatic movement in its elaborated version.
SECURICODE Diver 300 Steel/Ceramic with date: The SECURICODE family also expands with a model combining a stainless steel case with a bezel featuring a scratch-resistant ceramic insert.
A distinctive feature of this model is the date positioned at 3 o'clock on the dial. A Tropic rubber strap inspired by those made in the 70's, reinforces its sporty chic personality.
SECURICODE Diver 300 Limited Edition Bronze/Ceramic with date: ZRC celebrates its new collection with a limited edition featuring a forged bronze case. The watch takes up the features of the SECURICODE Diver 300 Steel/Ceramic with date.
The hands and hour-markers are finished in Super-LumiNova® eggshell to match the color of the case. For a perfect look, this edition is worn on a vintage leather strap.
All SECURICODE come with a cap specially developed for the occasion, and are beautifully presented in a gift bag featuring vintage advertising.
Thoughts? While ZRC provides technical sophistication in the Grand Fonds family of watches, for its sober charm and elegance, the brotherhood of the SECURICODE Diver 300 is here.
We start off with three strong contenders in Steel, Steel and Ceramic and Bronze and Ceramic but rest assured, the SECURICODE provides the perfect canvas for endless possibilities.
I cannot wait to see what the future holds for this new collection. Furthermore you cannot help but be smitten with the SECURICODE’s cherubim appeal.
It has all the charm of an adorable, chubby-cheeked, chunky armed cherub. The chunky case, the short but stout Magnum-type hands, the maxi twelve-hour bezel marker and its oversized crown, as adorable as cupid with his bow at the ready!
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