Introduction
The Zodiac Olympos Field (ref. ZO9712) is a purposeful tool watch that channels the brand’s mid-century military aesthetic into a contemporary daily driver. With a 40mm stainless steel case, a clean dial, and an in-house automatic movement, it aims to be the one watch you never take off. But does it survive a real week on the wrist? I’ve worn it through commutes, weekend hikes, and desk duty to find out.
Zodiac, founded in 1882 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, has a storied history of producing robust dive and field watches. The Olympos line originally debuted in the 1960s as a no-nonsense field watch, and this modern reissue stays true to that spirit while updating the mechanics. The ZO9712 is a prime example of how a heritage brand can deliver a watch that feels both vintage and contemporary.
Manufacture History
Zodiac was established in 1882 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and quickly gained a reputation for reliable, affordable timepieces. The brand became famous for the Sea Wolf dive watch in the 1950s, worn by Jacques Cousteau’s team, and later the Olympos field watch. After being acquired by Fossil Group in 2001, Zodiac revived its classic models with modern movements, including the STP calibers produced in-house. The Olympos Field is a direct descendant of the original 1960s reference, updated with a sapphire crystal and 100m water resistance.
Movement
Inside the ZO9712 beats the STP 1-11, an automatic movement developed by Zodiac’s sister company Swiss Technology Production. It operates at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) and offers a 44-hour power reserve. The movement features 26 jewels, a Glucydur balance wheel, and Incabloc shock protection. While not chronometer-certified, it is adjusted in three positions and delivers reliable timekeeping. The date window at 3 o’clock is crisp and easy to read. The movement is visible through a solid caseback, but the finishing is industrial rather than decorative—appropriate for a tool watch.
Specifications
- Case diameter: 40mm
- Case thickness: 12.5mm
- Lug-to-lug: 48mm
- Case material: 316L stainless steel
- Crystal: Domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Water resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)
- Lume: Super-LumiNova X1 on hands and hour markers
- Strap: Brown leather with quick-release spring bars and pin buckle
Wrist Feel
The 40mm case wears surprisingly compact thanks to the 48mm lug-to-lug and a well-proportioned 12.5mm thickness. On a 6.75-inch wrist, the Olympos Field sits flat and doesn’t overhang. The leather strap is supple out of the box, with a quick-release system that makes swapping to a NATO or rubber strap effortless. The weight is balanced—neither too light nor too heavy—and the crown doesn’t dig into the hand. It’s the kind of watch you forget you’re wearing until you glance at the time.
During a week of mixed wear, the watch remained comfortable under a dress shirt cuff and didn’t feel bulky during a light hike. The 100m water resistance means you can wash your hands or get caught in the rain without worry, though the leather strap isn’t ideal for swimming. The sapphire crystal is slightly domed, adding a vintage touch while resisting scratches.
Accuracy
Over a week of daily wear, the STP 1-11 movement averaged +8 seconds per day, well within acceptable tolerances for a non-COSC automatic. The rate remained consistent whether worn actively or left on a nightstand, with no significant positional variance. For a field watch at this price point, the accuracy is more than adequate.
Occasions
The Olympos Field is a versatile watch that works for daily wear, casual sport, and travel. Its 100m water resistance and robust construction make it suitable for hiking, camping, and light water activities (with a proper strap). The clean dial and moderate size also allow it to pass in smart-casual settings, though it’s too sporty for black-tie events.
Wrist Presence
3.5/5 — The Olympos Field is understated but not invisible. The matte black dial and syringe hands offer excellent legibility, and the polished bezel adds a touch of refinement. It flies under the radar in most settings, but watch enthusiasts will notice the heritage details.
Reference Variants
The ZO9712 is the black-dial version on a leather strap. Other variants include the ZO9711 (blue dial on leather), ZO9713 (green dial on NATO), and ZO9714 (black dial on stainless steel bracelet). All share the same case and movement.
Family References
The Olympos Field line includes the ZO9700 series. The predecessor is the Zodiac Olympos Automatic (ref. 68-900) from the 1960s.
Other Notable Zodiac Models
Zodiac’s catalog includes the Sea Wolf (dive watch), Super Sea Wolf (upgraded dive watch), Aerospace (pilot watch), and Astrographic (unique dial design).
Similar Watches
Competitors include the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical (38mm, hand-wound, less water resistance), Seiko Alpinist SPB121 (39.5mm, compass bezel, 200m WR), and Longines Spirit 37mm (COSC, higher price).
Homages
Budget alternatives include the Timex Expedition Scout (quartz, ~$50) and Vaer Field Automatic (Miyota movement, sapphire, 200m WR, ~$400).
Investment Value
MSRP is $1,295, with pre-owned prices ranging from $800 to $1,100. The trend is stable; the watch holds value reasonably well for a non-limited production piece. No major auction history.
Service Interval
Recommended service every 5 years. Cost approximately $350 at an independent watchmaker. Parts are available through Zodiac’s service network.
Price Range
$1,295–$1,495 (depending on strap/bracelet). Verdict: A fair price for a Swiss-made automatic with an in-house movement and heritage design. Not a bargain, but justified for the quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Excellent legibility, comfortable 40mm case, in-house movement, sapphire crystal, quick-release straps. Cons: No quick-adjust clasp, leather strap not swim-friendly, lume could be brighter, not COSC certified.
Final Verdict
The Zodiac Olympos Field ZO9712 is a well-executed field watch that delivers on comfort, legibility, and Swiss heritage. It’s a versatile daily wearer that feels at home in the office or on the trail. While it faces stiff competition from Hamilton and Seiko, its in-house movement and vintage-inspired design give it a distinct character that will appeal to collectors who value authenticity.
