Despite the dial of this watch saying Zodiac, this is without doubt, through and through a Heuer 2547NS. There are other watches out there dubbed ‘Poor Man’s Heuers’, but they have case and dial variations that warrants that nickname. This Zodiac though, is 100% the same as a Heuer 2547NS, only that it was rebranded. The 36mm stainless steel case even has the same ‘2547’ reference number engraved between the lugs and the fluted chronograph pushers you see on Heuers!
This Zodiac 2547 is a very complicated watch. It is a triple calendar chronograph, with apertures at 12 o’clock showing the day and month, with a forth central hand pointing to an outer calendar track on the dial displaying the date. Three subdials complete the look for the chronograph function and despite the amount of information needing to be displayed on a small dial, it remains very legible. I’ve always thought that the triple calendar chronograph classic layout to be one of the best-designed dials. Additionally, this ’NS’ example comes with the rarer and more desirable reverse panda layout.
Powering this watch is a high-quality Valjoux 72C, with the ‘C’ standing for calendar. It is a column-wheel movement and perhaps one of the most popular high-quality movements used in the era, powering watches such as the Heuer Autavia/Carrera and Rolex Daytona.
What makes this particular example so special is the state in which its in. While there are marks from years of storage and handling, I would say that this piece has barely been used at all. It is perhaps one of the best examples of a 2547 in the market and features its original circular brushed finish on the bezel which you hardly see. Furthermore, this piece comes complete with its inner and outer box, Zodiac chronograph brochure, guarantee, hangtag, and price tag. You will not find a more complete and stunning example.