Youll find these models in the 1990ies catalogues. Not sure about your exact sample, but I own a fairly similar model. The short explanation: Zodiac was bought off Zenith by an ex Heuer executive, who seems to have brought the rights to certain designs. Watches were still produced by Zenith though, according to contemporary catalogues.

He is an elderly gentleman, I don't think he uses eBay (I actually don't use eBay either, its not so big here), but more traditional watchmakers sources, that are probably drying out when it comes to Zodiac parts. He is semiretired, so perhaps his network is not what it used to, that may be an additional factor.

His great force is that he worked with Zodiacs all his career and even trained at the factory in Le Locle. He knows his reference numbers....

The good news is I seem to have located an axle with the help of someone in the network.

Thanks for your input, that will be valuable also for further challenges, must start visiting eBay more!

department of the AF emblem

Hi, I came across a Zodiac model online that looks identical to the Tag Heuer F1, but I couldn't find much information about it. Anyone know more about it?

Why was he not able to source one?  That is a very common part, that does not break often, and they made a million AS 1361s because they were used by so many companies. I probably only replace a rotor axle in that caliber maybe once a year.   My suggestion is to just buy an entire movement, and you will have plenty of extra parts if needed.  I did an Ebay search for that caliber and I got entire movements for between $75 and $50.  You can verify with the seller that it has an unbroken axle, but most should be as it was pretty heavy duty and is usually unbroken. 

Hi all,

My watchmaker unfortunately could not source a rotor axle for this fine 50ies (estimated) chronometer. Any of you have one you would be willing to part with?

It has been serviced and runs well, only with no automatic winding function.

Thanks for your input and reply. Hopefully that means it's rarer than rare ha! I won't hold my breath though.

You are correct but I have never seen that one before.

Hello all,

New user and first time poster here. I recently acquired a c.1950s Zodiac Rotographic with cal. 1361 automatic movement. The dial features an unusual crest:
   •   Blue circular field with stars around it
   •   White shield in the center with red radiating "spokes" (atom/radar style)
   •   Gold eagle perched above the shield

The watch is running and will be fully serviced. I believe this was a small-batch commission, possibly tied to a USAF nuclear/missile program or aerospace contractor, but I haven't been able to pin it down in the usual heraldry catalogs.

Has anyone seen this emblem before on a Zodiac or other mid-century Swiss dial? Any leads on the unit or organization it represents would be hugely appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

Daniel

redial