Zenith updates its experimental Defy line with two 100-piece limited editions that feature PVD-coated movement bridges.
Summary
- Zenith has expanded its Defy collection with two new limited-edition Extreme Chroma models, each restricted to a 100-piece production run and priced at $20,600.
- The 45mm watches feature a hybrid titanium and ceramic construction that houses the El Primero 9004 movement, distinguished by PVD-coated bridges that create a gradient color spectrum.
- Functionality remains a priority with a 1/100th-second chronograph, 20 ATM water resistance, and a quick-change system that includes rubber, titanium, and Velcro strap options.
Since its debut in 1969, the Zenith Defy collection has served as a laboratory for the Swiss brand. It is the place where engineers test new construction methods and designers play with visual layouts. That tradition continues with the release of two new Defy Extreme Chroma limited editions. These 100-piece runs follow the color-forward releases seen in 2022 and 2023, proving that high-frequency mechanics can coexist with a loud aesthetic.
The watches are large, measuring 45mm in diameter with a lug-to-lug distance of 51mm. Zenith offers two distinct material mixes here. One version pairs microblasted titanium with black ceramic elements on the bezel, crown, and pusher protectors. The other combines brushed and polished titanium with white ceramic components. Despite the generous 15.4mm thickness, the use of titanium helps balance weight against the sheer volume of the case.
While the exterior styling is aggressive, the internal engineering is the primary draw. The openworked sapphire dial reveals the El Primero 9004 movement. Zenith has treated the bridges with a PVD coating in a spectrum of colors, creating a mechanical rainbow that peeks through the dial architecture. This gradient theme extends to the markers and the tips of the subsidiary hands. Even the rotor on the back gets the polychrome treatment, appearing in blue for the black edition and green for the white version.
The mechanics are serious business. The movement relies on two independent escapements. One operates at 36,000 vph to handle standard timekeeping, while the second runs at a frantic 360,000 vph to drive the 1/100th-second chronograph. This setup allows the central chronograph hand to complete a full rotation every single second. A 50-hour power reserve ensures the engine keeps running when off the wrist.
Zenith clearly anticipates these watches will see active use rather than sitting in a safe. The case is water-resistant to 20 ATM and features a screw-down crown. To accommodate different settings, the brand includes three strap options with every watch. A quick-change system allows owners to swap between a rubber strap matching the case color, a full titanium bracelet, and a black Velcro strap without tools.
Both the black openworked dial version and the white openworked dial version carry a price tag of $20,600. They are available now through Zenith boutiques, authorized retailers, and the brand’s online store.
