The Zenith Defy Classic was my first foray into the brand after admiring it from afar. While most would have been drawn to the El Primero timepieces, I was drawn to the Defy range. Admittedly, it was an impulse purchase when I suddenly decided that I should have a dressy watch in my collection. As they say, first impression counts. This is especially true for the Zenith Defy Classic. I have seen countless pictures online prior to buying. However, seeing the gorgeous blue dial and the experience of putting it on the wrist tells you so much more than a thousand pictures. It is one of the most elegant and handsome watches I have seen.

The 41mm titanium case wears a little smaller than I had expected. The slim case has a height of just 10.75mm and would easily slide under the cuff of a shirt. As a dressy watch, it fits the bill perfectly. One of the other great things about the Zenith Defy Classic is that it does not hide its great movement. You can get lost in time, just marvelling at the beautiful in-house Elite skeletonised movement through the exhibition caseback. The water resistance is rated at 100 meters. Truth be told that I was surprised that the case is not secured with a screw down crown. That said, it is convenient having a non-screwed down crown that can be wound to quickly top up the 50 hour power reserve. I am also pleasantly surprised with the movement’s bi-directional quick set date, that is its ability to set the date forward and backwards.

I bought the bracelet version and ordered the rubber strap separately. The bracelet feels very refined and so beautiful that it feels at home on a more expensive watch. It almost feels like a Royal Oak without the price tag. The rubber strap, on the other hand, gives the watch an entirely different personality. It feels sporty and elegant at the same time. The rubber is very supple and comfortable, making it ideal for an everyday wear. The only major downside here is you are stuck with the OEM choices of straps, the other being leather.

I love the fact that Zenith is not a hyped watch brand but it has the pedigree that makes watch geeks will nod in appreciation. As a luxury sports watch, the Zenith Defy Classic is an entry level timepiece that punches well above its weight. It has all the hallmarks of more expensive watches without being one. For me at least, it has been part of the charm itself.