ZRC GF Series
Despite its long tradition in watchmaking, ZRC is one of those ‘under the radar’ brands.
Its GF (Grand Fonds) diver was originally designed in the 1960s for the French Marine Nationale and is a watch that enthusiasts should know about, though.
60s GRAND FONDS
The latest series of GF watches comes with many neat features, such as the crown at 6 o’clock being protected by the bracelet, which has been a hallmark of this timepiece since its introduction. It also has what ZRC calls the ‘Easy Clean System’, developed for mine clearance divers. Those faced the challenge of being unable to rotate the watch bezel due to crystallised sea salt between the case and the bezel. GF watches allow fresh water to be circulated inside the bezel, thus diluting the salt.
GF 3000 Titanium
There are several different collections of the GF series. The GF300 MN 64, a reissue of the 1964 version, the GF3000 Titanium watches, the GF 300 1964 Spirit and the GF38 Heritage, sharing their DNA with the original Grand Fonds from the 60s.
Depending on the version, one can expect the following specs from a GF:
39 or 41mm stainless or titanium case
Screwdown crown at 6 o’clock
Unidirectional rotating bezel
Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
300 or 3000m (Titanium version) water resistance
SELLITA “Elaborated” SW200-1 automatic movement
38hr power reserve
Stainless steel bracelet or rubber, leather or nato strap
GF 1964 Spirit
It can nice to be different
The ZRC GF watches are unique and stand out in the vast world of dive watches. If that is what you want, this heritage-packed timepiece is for you.