The Zenith Defy Revival A3642 represents Zenith’s foray into creating robust sports watches. As of 2022, this reimagined icon promises to captivate both vintage enthusiasts and contemporary watch lovers alike. It brings back a classic look with updated technology.
The original Zenith Defy A3642 introduced in 1969 became known for its ruggedness and distinctive design and was the first model in the Zenith Defy family. While unfortunately discontinued in the 1970s, the Zenith Defy philosophy had taken root. To this day, all Zenith Defy models are crafted to withstand extreme conditions and deliver excellent performance, ideal for adventurous wearers.
Design - 60 / 100
The Zenith Defy Revival A3642 stands as a masterful tribute to its predecessor, capturing the original design and vintage aesthetics with historical accuracy. Zenith recreated the iconic octagonal “bank vault” case and fourteen-sided bezel in stainless steel with a combination of brushed and polished finishes. One of the standout features is the bracelet “ladder” design, which faithfully replicates the original Gay Frères style but is made by Zenith.
The beefy “sword and paddle” hand design and contribute to the watch’s functional yet aesthetically pleasing layout. Rhodium-plated rectangular indices contrast well against the dial available in a few select colour gradients such as brown (“fumé”), red, teal or black. The date placement between the 4 and 5 o’clock markers is subtle and retains the original location. Additionally, the clear sapphire caseback is a modern update compared to the original which had a steel back.
Inside, a Zenith Elite 670 movement is decorated with a sculpted rotor and striped bridges so that it contrasts well against the polished and engraved caseback. The Zenith Defy Revival A3642 is committed to the preservation and evolution of its ancestor. Thanks to its timeless design the Defy Revival still represents the Zenith sports watch in a pure form.
Utility - 46 / 100
At its heart is the automatic Zenith Elite 670 movement which has a long history in different Zenith models. It is a reliable self-winding movement with hacking seconds and quick-set date. Super-Luminova is applied on the hands and dotted next to the rectangular indices so readability in low-light conditions is doable.
Thanks to a sapphire crystal and caseback the Zenith Defy Revival A3642 has increased scratch resistance compared to the original model which had mineral glass. By using a screw-down crown and robust construction the watch has a 300-meter water resistance. It also uses a suspension system for its movement so that it can have increased shock resistance.
The stainless-steel case and bracelet will wear every scratch proudly as a testament to the owner’s adventures. Titanium is an option and is even more resistant to wear; however, since that is offered only in black, any scratch might contrast against the coating. The bracelet features a locking clasp mechanism so it can be trusted to never unlock by accident. Somewhat surprising is the relatively small size of 37 mm in diameter, 13.6 mm in height and 44 mm lug-to-lug. Its dimensions are faithful to the original. While the watch looks like it would be hard to wear, it seems to work even on smaller wrists thanks to its cushion-shaped case.
All versions of the Defy Revival feature easy-to-read layouts regardless of configuration. One downside to its day-to-day utility is a high acquisition cost and (particular to the brown dial) the 250-unit limited edition. Additionally, the date window placement which although subtle and well-integrated is unreadable once per hour at 22.5 minutes past. Staying true to the original Zenith Defy A3642 it also does not include a rotating bezel which would have been a great addtion (see Defy Revival A3648 which does feature a diver bezel). This watch carries the torch of its predecessor in terms of robustness, offering all that is expected of a classic sports watch. It is a practical choice for daily wear, especially for owners who like to abuse their watches, don’t mind the high cost and enjoy the story of the Zenith Defy A3642.
Craft - 50 / 100
Starting with what is inside the bank vault, the Zenith Elite 670 movement provides everything a sports watch needs. 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz), 27 jewels, 144 components and 50 hours of power reserve is roughly what this watch offered when launched in 1969. Elite 670 is much more reliable and easier to service compared to the original 1970s models and although not specifically certified, it is made to or above Chronometer standards of precision. Offered with this movement is also the single-date complication position in the correct location. Generally, the Elite 670 featured in other models has the date either at 6 or at 3 o’clock so it is slightly tilted for this application.
Quality is high, to be expected from a brand such as Zenith; you get modern construction and great materials with original vintage design. Titanium can be had but most variants are all-steel. There is also the dedicated bracelet in case-matching material and finishing. Speaking of finishing, there are significant improvements: polished and brushed case, engraved caseback, sculpted rotor and striped decorations on the movement.
The following case and dial configurations are available:
- Ref 03.A3642.670/75.M3642 – stainless steel case, fumé / brown / tobacco dial (limited 250 units)
- Ref 03.A3642.670/3690.M3642 – stainless steel case, teal dial
- Ref 03.A3642.670/3691.M3642 – stainless steel case, red dial
- Ref 97.A3642.670/21.M3642 – black-coated titanium case, black dial
For owners who want the pure Zenith Defy A3642 vintage aesthetic the fumé dial is the one to go for as it was the original reference to be introduced and is actually what the number stands for. The other colourful configurations are also revivals of vintage references that were added in the early 1970s, namely the Defy Revival A3690 (teal) and Defy Revival A3691 (red). For a more modern, stealthy, premium look and feel, the Zenith Shadow Defy Revival introduced in 2023 is the only configuration with titanium case and bracelet.
Regardless of reference, any Zenith Defy Revival A3642 is a testament to blending modern craftsmanship with vintage aesthetics. High-quality materials, premium finishes and a reliable accurate movement are the perfect recipe for a buy-it-for-life sports watch.
Value - 45 / 100
One of the appealing aspects of the Zenith Defy Revival A3642 is that all configurations are priced similarly, making it easier for buyers to choose their preferred style without worrying about price variations. As of writing, it is still available for purchase directly from Zenith, which ensures buyers can benefit from a full 5-year warranty.
Ranging from around €7000-8000 for a new model and dropping to around €4000-6000 for a used watch in good condition with box and papers. Documentation is especially important for limited editions and generally if serviced through Zenith network.
The limited edition status of the fumé dial configuration may offer some exclusivity to owners but does not currently bring any increase in value. Time will tell. It seems that the teal configuration is also somewhat rarer than its siblings and harder to find for sale on the marketplace. Since the Zenith Shadow Defy Revival was the latest to be introduced it has not depreciated so far so prices are relatively stable.
It is worth mentioning that finding an original Zenith Defy A3642 would be a great vintage buy as it is rarer, more of a value-for-money and brings with it decades of history. Be prepared to invest in a major service where parts can be hard to find. Generally, any variant is relatively rare but well-known among connoisseurs. Both the Elite 670 calibre and the Defy A3642 model line have their own separate stories that were brought together with the Defy Revival.
Objectively, although reliable, precise and durable the price-performance ratio is poor. There are many cheaper alternatives for automatic steel sports watches. Within this price range, there is fierce competition. Alternatives offer more special calibres or additional features potentially making the Zenith’s high price seem less justified. Despite these challenges, the Zenith Defy Revival A3642 remains a worthwhile investment for those who value its historical pedigree and modern mechanics.
Collector Score - 50 / 100
The Zenith Defy Revival A3642 effectively combines vintage charm with modern enhancements. While it struggles against more feature-rich competitors in the same price bracket it remains a unique choice for collectors and enthusiasts drawn to its legacy and craftsmanship. Ideal for those who appreciate heritage over sheer utility, it is a sophisticated nod to Zenith watchmaking history.