Zenith's "Defy" collection, launched in 1969, is now considered a symbol of the brand's innovation, featuring a 1/100th of a second chronograph and gravity control mechanism. This article explains everything from the history of the Defy to the characteristics of each of the diverse series currently available and how to choose the right one for you.
The history of "Defy" that began in 1969
The name Defy predates the release of the first model in 1969. It was trademarked as "DEFI" in 1902 and renamed "DEFY" in 1969. "DIFI" itself is a French word meaning "challenge," and Zenith describes the Defy collection as "symbolizing a commitment to continuous pursuit of innovation and ultimate precision."
A starting point for robust design and original design.
The original Defy, introduced in 1969, featured a robust and distinctive exterior, characterized by its octagonal case, 14-sided bezel, and ladder bracelet. In fact, the original 1969 model was nicknamed "bank vault" or "bolt," and it established a new design language for watches, characterized by sharp lines, multifaceted finishes, and an architectural presence.
These design features have been carried over to the current Defy Skyline. The description of the reissue model, based on the original, also mentions a "gradient dial," which is another design element that follows the original.
Modern developments that have intensified since 2017
While the Defy collection traces its lineage back to the original model in 1969, it underwent a significant transformation after 2017. Zenith released the "Defy El Primero 21" and "Defy Lab," both of which embody a more modern direction. From that year onward, the collection gained a stronger emphasis on cutting-edge technology, in addition to its initial image as a robust sports watch.
The development of the Defy since 2017 is as follows:
• 2017: Defy El Primero 21 announced by Defy Labs.
• 2021: Defy Extreme debuts (Watches & Wonders Geneva 2021)
• 2022: Defy Skyline introduced, Defy Revival A3642 reissued.
• 2023: Defy Revival A3691 (1971 reference) reissue
• 2024: Defy Extreme Diver (modern version) announced, Defy Revival A3648 debuts.
• 2026: Defy Revival A3643 Reintroduction
The current Defy lineup includes a wide range of models, from those equipped with 1/100th of a second chronographs and gravity control mechanisms to reissue models that faithfully reproduce the original design.
A wide variety of options to choose from to suit your lifestyle.
As of March 28, 2026, the current lineup of the Defy consists of 7 series. The features of each series are summarized below.
• Defy Zero G: A gravity control module is mounted on the gimbal to suppress the effects of gravity.
• Defy Skyline: Features a star-motif dial and interchangeable straps, and is equipped with an El Primero movement capable of measuring 1/10th of a second.
• Defy Revival: A series that reproduces the octagonal case and ladder bracelet of the original Defy with current quality.
• Defy Extreme Diver: Designed as a diver's watch, prioritizing water resistance and robustness.
• Defy Extreme: A 1/100-second timekeeping model with a chronograph that vibrates 36 times per hour.
• Defy 21: Features two independent regulating mechanisms: 5Hz for timekeeping and 50Hz for the chronograph.
Defy Zero G
The core of the Defy Zero G lies in its unique concept called "Gravity Control."
This gravity control system was first introduced in 2008. A gravity control escapement module mounted on a gimbal keeps the regulating mechanism constantly horizontal, thereby suppressing the effects of gravity itself. This is a fundamentally different approach from a tourbillon, which averages out gravity-induced errors over time. In 2018, the module was further improved, becoming 30% smaller than the original.
Currently, this series is offered as a limited edition model in the collection and is geared towards people who are interested in the intricacies of watchmaking itself.
Manual winding (Cal. El Primero 8812). 36,000 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 50 hours. Sapphire case (46mm diameter). 3 ATM water resistance. Limited edition of 10 pieces worldwide. 2,838,000 yen (tax included).
Defy Skyline
The Defy Skyline was born in 2022. While inheriting the design codes of the early Defy from the late 1960s, it is a collection that has been reinterpreted to suit the dynamism of the modern city.
Key features include a dial design incorporating a star motif, an interchangeable strap system, and the El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph movement capable of measuring to 1/10th of a second. The current lineup is as follows:
• Defy Skyline
• Defy Skyline 36
• Defy Skyline Skeleton
• Defy Skyline Chronograph
• Defy Skyline Tourbillon
The octagonal case shape common to the collection follows the design of the original Defy. Furthermore, the bracelet and strap are easily interchangeable, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions.
Automatic movement (Cal. Elite 670). 27 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 50 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 36mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 3,014,000 yen (tax included).
DEFY Revival
The Defy Revival collection reinterprets the early Defy models from the late 1960s and early 1970s. As Zenith describes it, it's a collection that "revives bold designs," sharing common elements such as the octagonal multifaceted case, vibrant colored dials, ladder bracelet, and the Cal.Elite 670 automatic movement.
Each model is a reproduction based on a real model from the past.
• Defy Revival A3642: A meticulous reinterpretation of one of the earliest Defy models from 1969. Reissued in 2022.
• Defy Revival A3691: A reissue of the 1971 reference model. Introduced in 2023.
• Defy Revival A3643: 1969 reference. Reintroduced in 2026.
• Defy Revival A3648: Introduced in 2024
Furthermore, the A3690 and A3691 were "one of the first Defy watches to feature a colored dial," demonstrating that the early Defy models were cutting-edge in terms of design even back then.
Automatic movement (Cal. Elite 670). 27 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 50 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 37mm). Water resistant to 30 bar. Price: 3,014,000 yen (tax included).
DEFY Extreme Diver
The Defy Extreme Diver is a series within the current Defy lineup that has its own independent category as a diver's watch. The modern version was introduced in 2024, along with the Defy Revival A3648. Currently, the lineup includes the "Defy Extreme Diver Shadow" and several other "Defy Extreme Diver" models.
This series is suitable for people who work in environments where they frequently come into contact with water, or for those who prioritize water resistance and durability when choosing a watch.
Automatic movement (Cal. El Primero 3620). 35 jewels. 36,000 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 60 hours. Titanium case (42.5mm diameter). 60 ATM water resistance. 1,793,000 yen (tax included).
Defy Extreme
The Defy Extreme series, launched in 2021, boasts of being "the most robust 1/100th of a second chronograph." The El Primero 21 caliber it houses has a dual configuration: the timekeeping section vibrates at 36,000 vibrations per hour, while the chronograph section vibrates at 360,000 vibrations per hour.
Since then, they have continued to expand the variety of materials and designs, and currently offer the following five models in their lineup.
• Defy Extreme
• Defy Extreme Carbon
• Defy Extreme Double Tourbillon
• Defy Extreme Chroma
• Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli
Although they share the same "Extreme" name, the Defy Extreme Diver has a different role than the aforementioned diver's model. While the Defy Extreme Diver is specialized for diving, the Defy Extreme is a performance-oriented series that emphasizes its 1/100th of a second chronograph. This series is suitable for people who are attracted to large cases and mechanical exterior designs.
Automatic (Cal. El Primero 9004). 53 jewels. 36,000 vph. Power reserve approximately 50 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 45mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 1,408,000 yen (tax included).
Defy 21
The Defy 21 series is positioned as "the pinnacle of groundbreaking and innovative chronographs." It features two independent regulating mechanisms (5Hz and 50Hz) for timekeeping and chronograph functions, achieving time measurement with 1/100th of a second accuracy.
Originally launched in 2017 as "Defy El Primero 21," this series is now part of the "Defy 21" lineup in the current collection and includes models such as the Defy 21 Ultraviolet, DEFY 21 Chroma II, and Defy 21 Ultra Blue.
This series combines El Primero's high-frequency technology with an avant-garde exterior, making it ideal for those who want to appreciate the chronograph mechanism itself.
Automatic movement (Cal. El Primero 9004). 53 jewels. 36,000 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 50 hours. Titanium case (44mm diameter). 10 ATM water resistance. 1,793,000 yen (tax included).
A masterpiece collection from Zenith, blending tradition and innovation.
The Defy's origins lie in a robust sports watch called "bank vault" from 1969. The sharp lines of its octagonal case and 14-sided bezel gave it a striking presence even back then. While maintaining its roots, the modern Defy incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as 1/100th of a second chronographs and gravity control mechanisms, continuing to expand the range of the collection.
From reissues to ultra-complex mechanisms, the Defy collection, under the same name, offers a diverse range of series to suit everyone's interests, whether you're just starting out in the world of watches or you're fascinated by mechanisms and materials. Maintaining its roots as a robust and practical timepiece while continuously evolving with the latest technology, this collection is a modern standard supported by a wide range of people.
