History of Zodiac Watches

The Zodiac Watch Company, founded by Ariste Calame in 1882 in Le Locle, Switzerland, began with a mission to create the most precise watch ever made. Initially producing specialized pocket watches, Zodiac gained recognition for its high-quality and innovative designs, culminating in the 1908 patenting of the Zodiac brand name. This period saw the introduction of Zodiac’s first extra-flat pocket watch in 1924, showcasing the company's prowess in miniaturization and precision engineering. The 1930s brought further innovation with the launch of Zodiac's first automatic sports watch and the popular Zodiac Autographic, known for its durability and advanced features such as a power reserve gauge, radium dial, and water resistance.

The 1953 release of the Sea Wolf marked a milestone as one of the first purpose-built dive watches for the general public, leading to the development of the Zodiac Aerospace in 1960 and the Super Sea Wolf in the early 1970s, used by U.S. Navy SEALs. Despite facing challenges and changes in ownership during the 1990s, including bankruptcy and acquisition by Fossil Inc. in 2001, Zodiac experienced a revival with the introduction of new lines and the reissue of the iconic Sea Wolf in 2015. Today, Zodiac blends its rich heritage with modern technology, producing watches that honor its past while embracing contemporary innovations, solidifying its reputation in Swiss watchmaking.