Mylapore's Zenith Watch Co. Operates Amid Metro Rail Construction Barricades

Zenith Watch Co., a historic timepiece shop located on Kutchery Road near the Luz signal in Mylapore, continues to serve customers despite major route diversions and barricades erected for ongoing Metro Rail construction.

Founded in 1954 by Mallick Pasha, the shop has operated from the same address for decades, offering repairs for vintage pendulum clocks and antique timepieces alongside sales of modern wristwatches. However, ongoing civic infrastructure work around Luz Corner, Kutchery Road, and Luz Church Road has altered movement pathways for both motorists and pedestrians, making access challenging.

Mahaboob Pasha, 58, who took over the family enterprise in his twenties after completing his M.Com degree, explained that the construction barricades have made it harder for both prospective and returning customers to locate the shop. Old customers accustomed to direct access now navigate diversions, while new walk-ins struggle to spot the storefront behind construction barriers.

Despite these hurdles, the shop maintains its customer base through personal relationships and repair services. While Pasha previously worked as a technician repairing timepieces, he now manages the business and employs technicians to handle repairs. When necessary replacement components cannot be found locally, the business sources spare parts from Delhi and Mumbai.

Alongside repairs, the store continues to stock non-branded, affordable wristwatches. Pasha stated that the proliferation of smartphones and digital devices has not eliminated customer demand for wristwatches.

To help overcome access difficulties and modernise operations, the shop uses a website where customers can track the progress of their repairs using bill numbers, as well as browse clocks and watches available for sale.