Zenith S.65 aka “The Keyhole”

Step into the 1960s with a timepiece that gained the nickname among watch collectors: The Keyhole. You'd think a watch with such a strong nickname would have a dedicated online presence, but surprisingly, there's not that much to be found.

So, here we are, embarking on a journey to discover the 1965 Zenith S.65, known as "The Keyhole."

Zenith

A little backstory on Zenith. The company was started in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot in Le Locle in the canton of Neuchâtel and is one of the oldest continuously operating watchmakers. Favre-Jacot invented the concept of "in house movements", believing that only through control of the entire watchmaking process could the highest quality be achieved.

While many watch brands have faded into obscurity over the years, Zenith remains a presence in the industry, standing tall even today.

1965 Centenary

As you might have noticed. 1965 was the year Zenith existed for 100 years. Some articles refer to the S.65 as the “Centenary” model.

Comments at the Swiss Watch Fair of 1965:

“Here is a watch combining vanguard styling with the latest technical advances. The wide bezel, containing the inset calendar window (with instant changing of the date), gives effective shock protection to the crystal. Zenith-Rotor automatic movement, one-piece case without screws offering maximum watertightness. (ZENITH S.65)”

Comments at the Swiss Watch Fair of 1965:

“This luxury version of the Zenith’s famous “Centenary” model was specially design for the exhibition. Styling note of special interest - a calendar set in the large out rim. Case and bracelet are in platinum.”

The Keyhole

Case

The standout feature of this watch undoubtedly lies in its design. From the chunky 36mm case with its prominent bezel to the small dial and the cutout for the date window, earning it the nickname "Keyhole."

Moreover, the case's design is a unicase. Meaning the watch could only opened from one side which is the frontside, aiding in its waterproofing capabilities. While most S.65 models are crafted from steel, there are also production examples available in 18k gold and even a probably unique platinum version.

Dial

The dial could be seen in two variations. The two tone design or the unicolor with square hour markers.

Image by timeXchange

Movement

The movement used is the automatic Zenith caliber 2542PC. A high grade in-house movement by Zenith.

Ref. A. 6620 - Deluxe and sports model in steel. robust, waterproof automatic, calendar (with the steel NSA bracelet), advertised in 1966

Straps and bracelets

The first years of the steel version delivered the watch on a leather strap. In 1966 you can find advertisements of the steel S.65 paired with a steel bracelet by NSA.

The 18k golden version came with lugs and a leather strap or with an 18k gold integrated bracelet in 1966.

The platinum version came with an integrated bracelet in platinum.

1965 advertisement

1968 advertisement