Auch verfügbar auf Deutsch
The legend of the Grands Fonds: a milestone in the art of watchmaking
The Grands Fonds 3000 GF50608 is a watch that has made history and is still considered a symbol of technical perfection and a thirst for adventure. Originally developed by ZRC in 1958 and recognized as an official watch of the French Navy in 1964, it was specially designed for extreme missions. With its exceptional robustness and distinctive screw-down crown at 6 o’clock, it quickly became an icon. Its ability to withstand dives to depths of up to 300 meters made it an indispensable companion for divers. With its reintroduction in 2015, the watch received modern updates such as the innovative Crown Protection System™ and the Easy Clean System™, which further improved its reliability and longevity.
An evolution of the classic
The Grands Fonds 3000 GF50608 embodies the heritage of the original models without losing its timeless elegance. It remains true to the purist design language, but combines it with state-of-the-art technology and an independent character. Its grade 2 titanium case is a masterpiece of technical sophistication and preserves the silhouette of the original. At the same time, this reinterpretation stands out with innovative materials and a bold design that takes the decades-long tradition of the Grands Fonds to a new level.
A record breaker of the deep sea
The Grands Fonds 3000 is more than just a diver’s watch – it is a technical marvel. As the world’s first watch that can withstand pressures of up to 5,000 meters without a helium valve and with a case thickness of less than 20 millimeters, it sets new standards. The case, made of lightweight yet robust grade 2 titanium, compresses so precisely under extreme pressure that no gas can penetrate. The 316L steel case back, combined with a double titanium seal, provides additional security and absorbs pressure deformations – a feat only made possible by decades of engineering skill.
Harmony of technology and design
The housing of the Grands Fonds 3000 impresses with its aerodynamic shape, reminiscent of the elegance of a shark. It is crowned by a unidirectional rotating bezel with 60 detents and a scratch-resistant ceramic inlay. This ceramic, which is also UV-resistant, not only gives the watch a sophisticated look, but also makes it resistant to the elements. The color scheme – a deep black complemented by navy blue accents – creates an impressive contrast to the Super-LumiNova® coated markings, which remain easy to read even in the darkest depths of the ocean.
The dial: a tribute to the depthsBehind a 5 millimeter thick, domed sapphire crystal, the dial unfolds its impressive color dynamics. The colour gradient from luminous indigo at the top to deep black at the bottom symbolizes the fading visibility in the depths. Classic, skeletonized magnum hands with luminous coatings glide over the clear hour markers and three striking numerals. The minutes are indicated by an eye-catching red hand, while the “lollipop” second hand with a luminescent dot ensures precise legibility.
Precision for adventurers
Inside the Grands Fonds 3000 is the proven Sellita SW200-1 caliber. This automatic movement, which runs at a frequency of 4 Hertz and offers a power reserve of 38 hours, guarantees reliability in all conditions. Whether on dives at great depths or adventures on land – the technical precision makes this watch the perfect companion for explorers.
Born for the deep sea
The Grands Fonds 3000 is complemented by a specially developed natural latex strap that is secured with a customized titanium buckle. This strap, which ensures maximum wearing comfort, was designed for use at extreme depths. Combining technical perfection, iconic design and outstanding performance, the watch is a symbol of the spirit of exploration and adventure. With the Grands Fonds 3000, ZRC remains true to its motto: “Life is an adventure”
All Details, my statement & Price here