Zodiac made several sports models in the 50s-60s and were direct competitors to Rolex, Blancpain, and Tudor but are often looked over as they don't receive the same clout as the aforementioned companies. Keeping this in mind, Zodiac is one of the more undervalued Swiss timepiece companies to come from this "golden era" of sports watches. From then, Zodiac went on to produce countless other quality sport and dress models that to this day remain at an affordable price point, but still carry that colorful Zodiac charm. This Hermetic Jet-Aeronaut is one such piece and one that seems to be getting harder and harder to find.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The Zodiac Hermetic features a 34-millimeter stainless steel case with fantastic bold lugs that amp up the watch's presence on the wrist. The Hermetic showcases a special snap-down case back that features an unusual water-resistant system, not unlike that found on its sibling model the Sea-Wolf. The watch comes accompanied by a colorful, matching single-pass NATO strap.

DIAL & HANDS

And now to the main event. The dial is a deep, ink-black, with a fantastic mix of typography and design. This Zodiac is a rare offering from the brand due to its utilization of a 24-hour dial. Jumping off the dial and marking the odd hours are bold and bright red markers tipped in aged radium plots. The thin index hands show their age but retain their radium, while the ever-thinning second's hand reaches out and sweeps the dial edge. No matter how often this watch is worn it is sure to bring out a smile.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is in perfect working condition, extended service history is unknown.