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Introducing The Zenith Defy Classic

Two entry-level models round out Zenith's new flagship collection.

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Quick Take

At Baselworld 2017, Zenith relaunched its Defy collection with the focus on a high-beat chronograph (the Defy El Primero 21) that can measure down to 1/100th of a second. Just a few months later, Zenith upped the ante with the Defy Lab, a time-only watch that debuted a new, super-high-frequency oscillator and would be made in extremely limited quantities. But now Zenith is adding an entry level model to the Defy range in the form of the Defy Classic. 

This watch utilizes a titanium case that has the now-familiar Defy shape but in a smaller 41mm size that can be paired with a matching titanium bracelet, a combination alligator/rubber strap, or a simple rubber strap. It's an everyday sports watch that utilizes a Zenith Elite movement while still capturing a lot of the style of the other, more advanced Defy watches. If you really want to get that Defy Lab look, you can opt for the openworked version of the Defy Classic – it looks almost exactly like a smaller version of its high-tech older sibling.

Initial Thoughts

Offering ways for new collectors an enthusiasts to engage with your brand is key in today's watch market, and Zenith is very smart to add a watch like the Defy Classic to its catalog. The mix of strap options, the trend-friendly blue dial on the simpler version, and the middle-of-the-road 41mm size should make it a viable option for a lot of would-be buyers. I particularly like the use of brushed titanium instead of stainless steel, which will ultimately make the watch more comfortable and give it a slightly different look. The openworked version might be a little more polarizing, but Zenith is really embracing the tech-forward aesthetic, and at this point I don't think I could mistake this watch for something from any other brand.

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The Defy Classic with a closed dial.


The Basics

Brand: Zenith
Model: Defy Classic

Diameter: 41mm
Thickness: 10.75mm
Case Material: Titanium
Dial Color: Sunburst blue or openworked
Indexes: Applied batons
Lume: Yes, on hands and hour markers
Water Resistance: 100 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Rubber strap with blue alligator coating, rubber strap with textured finish, brushed titanium bracelet

The Defy Classic with an openworked dial.

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The Movement

Caliber: In-House Elite 670 (Elite 670 SK for openworked models)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Diameter: 25.6mm
Thickness: 3.88mm
Power Reserve: 48 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 vph)
Jewels: 27


Pricing & Availability

Price: $5,900 (strap), $6,900 (bracelet), $6,500 (openworked on strap), $6,700 (openworked on bracelet)
Availability: Later this year

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