The Zenith Defy gets its turn in the limelight with a limited edition reviving the original model from 1969
Zenith will forever be associated with the El Primero, and in recent times it has satiated collectors by reviving some of the most covetable models from its early years. However, 1969 also saw the birth of another essential part of the watchmaker’s family, the Defy. Launched in an era where quartz posed a looming threat to the traditional watch industry, it proved that mechanical watches could be revolutionary in their own right with its bold look and rugged credentials.
Nicknamed the ‘coffre-fort’ in French, translating to ‘bank vault’ or ‘safe box’, its statement design left no doubt that it was a timepiece that could withstand all occasions and pursuits. At the heart of its daring aesthetic is the angular, octagonal case with its 14-sided bezel, playing with facets and sharp lines to striking effect. This was paired with a steel ‘ladder’ bracelet, the creation of renowned specialists Gay Frères, to complete the sporty feel.
These distinctive details have been faithfully reproduced in the new Defy Revival A3642, along with the original’s grey, gradient-effect dial that was rather unusual in its era. Other charming vintage touches include the hour markers that take the form of horizontal grooves and chunky sword-shaped hands. One deviation is that the latter is filled with glowing Super-LumiNova, in a similar shade to the tritium used on the first models.
Another modern update includes the sapphire-crystal caseback, through which you can view the inner workings of a piece of Zenith’s contemporary timekeeping, the Elite 670 movement. This high-frequency, in-house movement delivers the precision and reliability expected of the brand, along with a power reserve of 50 hours. Limited to 250 pieces, this special edition is available in boutiques and online.
