Zenith Captain

Captain is the classic line from the Le Locle manufacture Zenith: watches for a business suit rather than for sport. Zenith used the Captain name as early as the 1950s. Today's models keep to the same restrained code: a round case without a sports bezel, faceted Dauphine hands, applied indices and a guilloché or sunray dial. Cases are made in stainless steel and rose gold.

The line relies on slim in-house Elite calibres, which power the three-hand models and versions with date, moon phase, second time zone and power reserve indicator. The brand also has a collection of the same name, Zenith Elite. Captain chronographs use the high-frequency El Primero, so their cases are thicker.

The easiest way to choose is by function. The three-hander is the most understated and versatile option. A moon phase adds a decorative touch to the dial, while a second time zone suits frequent travellers. A power reserve indicator shows when the watch needs winding if it is not worn every day. Then choose the metal: steel is more practical for daily wear, rose gold better suited to evening dress.

The collection includes the men's Zenith Captain Power Reserve in a 40 mm steel case with sapphire crystal and a transparent caseback. Inside is calibre Elite 685 with a 50-hour power reserve. The power reserve indicator is at the upper right, small seconds at 9 o'clock and the date window near 6 o'clock. Versions differ in dial and strap.

Condition and what is included are given in each listing.