Zenith Defy A3648 Plongeur Orange Dial

This vintage diver's watch made by Zenith is an absolute eye-catcher. It is a Zenith Defy Reference A3648 with an octagonal case and a plenty of orange elements. Other names for this model are Plongeur or SubSea.

The present watch is from the early 1970s and it literally shines. Orange bakelite bezel, orange-black dial and orange-bordered hands make for a literally "glowing" look. In addition, the watch has the original luminous material, which shines brightly under UV light. The intense and striking colors provided primarily for the better readability under water. The condition of the dial is really impressive. The matte black surface as well as the orange inner ring have been preserved without any flaws. The beautiful dial is protected by a domed mineral glass. To ensure a waterproof dial, the crystal is additionally surrounded by a special locking ring. The bakelit bezel is in perfect condition.

The name Defy means "challenge" from the French (défi). Zenith wanted to point out the robustness of this watch. The stainless steel case is very sturdily built to withstand the high water pressure when diving. The stainless steel case of this 50 year old watch has sharp edges. The few natural signs of wear give this vintage watch an honest condition. The clearly visible engraving of the serial number on the case back confirms the virginal state of this Zenith Defy.

Another Zenith-typical feature is the position of the screwed crown and the date between 4 and 5 o'clock.

Condition report
Dial: absolutely perfect matte black dial - original tritium lume in markers and hands - luminous material in hour hand is slightly dented (see pictures) - signed "T SWISS MADE T" at 6 o'clock.

Case: natural wear marks - sharp edges - deep case number on the caseback - correct engravings inside the caseback - absolutely perfect orange Bakelite bezel - correct winding crown with the NATO star.

Movement: automatic caliber Zenith 2552 PC - timegrapher: rate: -32s/day, amplitude: 285, beat error: 0.1.

Bracelet: original stainless steel bracelet from Gay-Frères - light wear marks - no stretch - clasp signed "Zenith".

Summing-Up
We love the fascinating design of this Zenith Defy. On top of that, the watch is super rare, not least because of its great condition.

Serial number: 335Dxxx (1970)

Int.Exe.: 50515