Electroplating Wizardry Saves a Hopeless 1940s Zenith Watch – Restoration!

Join us as we embark on an incredible journey to restore a rare and historic Zenith watch from the 1940s. With fewer than 3,600 of these timepieces ever made, this watch features a remarkable Blancpain movement that makes it truly unique. In this video, we'll take you through the entire restoration process, from the watch's initial state of disrepair, including the disaster of a watch case, to its stunning transformation with the help of electroplating magic!

Zenith, founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot in Le Locle, Switzerland, is a prestigious Swiss luxury watch manufacturer known for its high-quality movements and exceptional craftsmanship. Zenith has a rich history of innovation and has produced numerous iconic watches over the years.

Blancpain, established in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain, is the world's oldest watchmaking brand. Blancpain is renowned for its exceptional mechanical movements and timeless designs, making them a perfect partner for this rare Zenith watch.

Follow along as we meticulously restore every component of this incredible timepiece, including the electroplating of the watch case, breathing new life into a piece of horological history. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more amazing watch restoration projects!

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Oil used
Light oil (escape wheel/third wheel/fourth wheel/balance pivots): Moebius 9010
Heavy oil (centre wheel/barrel arbor/barrel/motion work): Moebius HP 1300 or Moebius D5
Pallet oil: Moebius 941/2 and Moebius 9415 pallet grease (for fast beating watches over 19,800bph)
Mainspring: Moebius 8200 grease
Keyless work and upper crown wheel: Moebius 8301 grease

Cleaning agents
Elma - WF Pro Watch Cleaning
Elma Suprol Pro

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction
01:43 Disassembly back side of the movement (Wheel train, Escapement, Balance wheel, Et Cetera)
11:38 Disassembly dial side of the movement (Keyless & Motion Works)
13:50 Cleaning the watch movement
15:13 Reassembly back side of the movement (Wheel train, Escapement, Balance wheel, Et Cetera)
25:15 Reassembly dial side of the movement (Keyless & Motion Works)
30:45 Sanding the watch case down
34:43 Soldering the lugs to build up metal
35:53 Polishing the case
37:11 Electroplating copper strike
40:17 Electroplating bright nickle
42:31 Finishing the movement
43:04 Incabloc shock protection system
44:52 Bringing everything together and finishing the watch.