Zenith Surf, Ref. 01.1531.360, Cal. 2572, Men’s Dress

Zenith Surf 1978 — First impression - 01.1531.360

The Zenith Surf Ref. 01.1531.360 captures a distinctly late-1970s design language: crisp geometry, purposeful finishing, and a dial that changes character with every shift of light. This is a compact 35 mm wristwatch that wears confidently thanks to its angular tonneau silhouette and long, clean lug lines. The overall aesthetic is understated yet unmistakably Zenith, with the brand’s applied emblem and balanced typography sitting above a beautifully textured blue surface. For collectors who appreciate vintage Swiss watchmaking without unnecessary complication, the Surf offers direct, honest design and a satisfying tactile experience, especially in a manual winding format that keeps the connection between wearer and movement front and center.

Zenith Surf - Deep blue brushed Dial

The dial is the defining feature: a rich blue tone with a clearly visible vertical brushing that reads like fine satin under macro inspection. Applied baton markers feature dark framing and discreet lume plots near the outer ends, paired with a precise printed minutes track for clean legibility. The absence of a date keeps the composition pure and symmetrical, allowing the surface finish and the Zenith signature to remain the visual anchor.

Surf 01.1531.360 - Hands

Steel baton hour and minute hands are matched to the dial’s modernist markers, delivering a cohesive, period-correct look. A slender central seconds hand adds a light, technical contrast against the blue ground. The set prioritizes clarity and proportion, with lengths that land accurately in their intended zones for confident reading at a glance.

Zenith Surf 1978 — Angular brushed stainless steel presence - 01.1531.360

The case is where the Surf’s 1970s identity becomes unmistakable. Strong, faceted lines frame the dial, while broad brushed surfaces create a tool-like sense of intent despite the watch’s dress orientation. A polished bezel ring adds contrast and helps lift the dial visually, giving the watch a sharper, more architectural profile than many round contemporaries. With a 41 mm lug-to-lug measurement, the watch gains wrist presence beyond what the 35 mm diameter suggests, sitting neatly while still feeling substantial. For a curated selection of Zenith pieces from the era, you can also explore Zenith vintage watches including blue-dial Surf references like 01.1531.360.

Surf 01.1531.360 - Signed Crown

The original signed crown reinforces originality and period correctness. Its knurled profile provides secure grip for daily winding and time-setting, complementing the watch’s functional geometry. In a hand-wound piece, crown feel matters, and here it aligns with the Surf’s straightforward, mechanical character.

Zenith Surf — Kuki Handmade Brown Leather Strap

The watch is fitted with a new Kuki handmade brown leather strap, adding a warm, textured counterpoint to the cool blue dial and steel case. The stitching and grain bring a classic, worn-in look without compromising presentation, making the watch easy to pair with tailoring, denim, or modern smart-casual wardrobes.

Zenith Surf 1978 — Manual wind Cal. 2572 and precision timekeeping

Inside is the Zenith Cal. 2572, a Swiss manual-wind movement chosen by collectors for its direct, traditional architecture and the daily ritual it invites. A hand-wound calibre keeps the watch slim in spirit and experience, emphasizing mechanical watch ownership in its most engaging form: wind, set, wear. In practical terms, the format also tends to reward careful servicing and stable regulation, making it a dependable choice for regular rotation rather than occasional display. The Surf is a clear example of how Zenith combined design confidence with movement credibility during the era, delivering a historic wristwatch that feels purpose-built rather than decorative.

Zenith Surf 1978 — Heritage of the Surf in late-1970s design

The Surf name sits in an interesting space within Zenith’s broader heritage: elegant daily-wear watches that lean into contemporary case shapes and modernist dial layouts of their time. In the late 1970s, Swiss brands explored angular forms, brushed finishes, and bold colors to keep pace with changing tastes, and this reference reflects that shift with discipline. The deep blue dial and framed markers give the watch a confident, graphic identity, while the overall execution remains distinctly Swiss in restraint and finishing. If you are building a wardrobe of classic form watches, you may also enjoy dress vintage watches with blue dials and clean no-date layouts from the 1970s, selected for balanced design and everyday wearability.

Zenith Surf 1978 — Condition, originality, and 12-month warranty

This Zenith Surf is offered in used condition consistent with an authentic 1978 watch, with the kind of gentle signs of age collectors expect rather than anything that compromises character or legibility. It is fully serviced, fully operational, and confirmed with all original watch components, aligning with the standards serious buyers look for when choosing a collectible mechanical watch. The original signed crown supports the watch’s honest presentation, and the fresh Kuki handmade strap adds immediate comfort without pretending to be period-original. The purchase is backed by a 12-month warranty and supported with shipping worldwide, providing the confidence and convenience expected when acquiring vintage Swiss watchmaking for a modern collection.