The Defy was introduced by Zenith at the end of the 1960s as a line of robust sports watches, built to withstand demanding conditions of use. The first generation is associated with the nickname “coffre-fort”, or safe, which alludes to the solidity of the case: hence the name “Cassaforte del tempo” (“safe of time”). This 1970s steel example, reference 337.D.979, retains its constructional philosophy.
The model
The 37 mm case is in steel, with the crown positioned between 4 and 5 o’clock; the dial shows hours, minutes, seconds and date. The crystal is mineral, the bracelet steel. Period Defy watches were known for water resistance that was high for the time, achieved with a screw-down crown and caseback and an advanced gasket system, and were fitted with Zenith automatic movements, often from the 2562PC family.
For the collector
The Defy is appreciated for a geometric design that anticipates modern sports watches and for its robust construction. In original examples the dial may show patina and variations due to age; some variants, such as the faded dials known as “tropical”, are particularly sought after on the vintage market.
Technical details
| Brand | Zenith |
|---|---|
| Model | Defy “Cassaforte del tempo” |
| Reference | 337.D.979 |
| Case | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 37 mm |
| Period | 1970s |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date; crown between 4 and 5 o’clock |
| Crystal | Mineral |
| Bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet |
