Zenith Ginza Boutique Grand Opening

KIH · 2012-11-01T09:07:14Z

Explore the Zenith Ginza Boutique Grand Opening in Tokyo. Discover Zenith's 100+ year history in Japan, including railway pocket watches and El Primero.

KIH

WPS member · Zenith forum

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KIH provides an exclusive look at the Grand Opening Reception for the Zenith Ginza Boutique in Tokyo, following its initial opening in late September 2012. The post captures the luxurious atmosphere and showcases Zenith's deep historical ties to Japan, including its role as official timekeeper for the Japan National Railways.

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Zenith Ginza Boutique Grand Opening Reception

The boutique itself was opened at the end of September (see here: zenith.watchprosite.com /) but the Grand Opening Reception was held today in the very fashionable location in Aoyama area.

Very "exclusive" atmosphere place....

Seriously decorated

Inside, too...

Zenith has had presence in Japan since....

Special pocket watch "25 years services by the Railways" - enamel Swiss national flag is impressive. Not only by Swiss National Railways, but also Japan National Railways used Zenith pocket watch as its official watch from 1920s.

.... more than 100 years ago (around 1900)

In 1969, the first automatic El Primero movement was launched.

Felix Baumgartner - the latest Zenith "Ambassador".

And, the special watch stand for the special watch...

(not for sale...)

This is IT!

Other various historical Zenith literature, brochure...

Mr. and Mrs. Dufour - they are going to Kyoto after this event. Now is the best season.....

1969 El Primero, Caliber 3019PHC

Rainbow Flyback - launched in 1997 with cooperation of French Air Force.

Pilot watch in the early 20th century.

Mr. Dufour with the guests...

The "Stage" for the event.

And on the screen, which y ou may be tired of seeing this video, but I couldn't resist because it is so cool no matter how many times I saw.... Sorry for the noisy crowds.

Mr. Dufour's opening remark:

"Japan is my very favorite country and I am so happy that Zenith has opened its boutique in Ginza. Why do I love Japan? Because, Zenith has had its presence for more than 100 years here, and the craftmanship or "attention to details" is very similar to Swiss watch industry like Zenith......."

Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Dufour!

And Mr. Kamine, CEO of the large retail franchise in the western Japan, "Kamine" , speach and cheers "kanpai".

Thank you so much for the invitation. Had lots of fun.
Special thanks to:
Mr. and Mrs. Dufour, CEO of Zenith
Mr. Wada - Boutique Manager of Zenith Boutique Ginza
Mr. Kamine - for a nice speech before Kanpai.

Thank you!

Ken

This message has been edited by KIH on 2012-11-01 09:08:39 This message has been edited by MTF on 2012-11-02 09:46:44

Key Points from the Discussion

Zenith's historical connection with Japan's railways, contracting for engineer's pocket watches in the early 20th century, was a previously unknown fact to some community members.
The Zenith Rainbow Flyback, launched in 1997, has ties to the French Air Force, a detail that sparked interest and requests for more information from the community.
The author confirmed that the information about the Rainbow Flyback's French Air Force connection was based on display signage at the event, inviting others to provide further details.
The New Vintage 1969 model was prominently displayed at the event, generating enthusiasm among attendees.
The Zenith Rainbow Flyback model continues to be highly sought after by collectors, with some expressing their ongoing efforts to acquire one.

The Discussion

Dr No

Nov 1, 2012

. . . I wasn't aware of until now, Ken - Japan's railways contracting with Zenith in the early 20th century for engineer's pocket watches. Many thanks for bringing us coverage of this event, and gratifying to find the New Vintage 1969 on display. Was Mr Dufour surprised to see you in Japan after meeting with him recently in Boston? Best, Art

KIH

Nov 1, 2012

... as he didn't recognize me until I told him so - it was a bit dark inside :-) But it was a nice meeting again. He seemed to be in pretty good mood with his wife, it seemed their hearts were already in Kyoto :-) Ken

nilomis

Nov 1, 2012

I'm always in love with the "Rainbow Flyback". I'm trying to get, that is identical to your pic, one but the owner is also in love. Cheers, Nilo

KIH

Nov 1, 2012

... and I got hooked, too..... :-) Thanks! Ken

takashi78

Nov 4, 2012

I didnt at all know that the Rainbow Flyback has ties to the French Air Force. Care to give more details on that? That model reminds my favorite EP flyback model.

KIH

Nov 5, 2012

.. I just quoted what was printed on the place in front of the model in the showcase.... Sorry, I do not know the detailed story behind that model.... Anyone, please chime in? Thanks very much in advance! Ken

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