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WATCH NEWS
June 7, 2021
Watches & Wonders 2021 New Release. The Defy Extreme: Achieving New Levels of Precision and Robustness | ZENITH
ZENITH
A Powerful Design Housing a Dynamic 1/100th of a Second Chronograph
From Zenith, a brand that continually pushes the boundaries of performance and design, comes the unveiling of three new models in the Defy Extreme line. These watches feature an all-terrain, accurate, and robust 1/100th of a second automatic chronograph. The Defy Extreme boldly and modernly showcases the collection's striking proportions, design, and construction, with the 1/100th of a second chronograph caliber visible through the dial.
Text by OZAKI Sayaka | Edit by TSUCHIDA Takashi
A Dynamic Watch with a More Powerful, Cutting-Edge Chronograph
Zenith has unveiled three new models in its Defy collection, the Defy Extreme, which resolutely embodies the future of watchmaking. Pushing form and function to new heights, these timepieces achieve unprecedented levels of precision and robustness, characterized by their faceted titanium cases. The contours and details are accentuated, lending the watches a remarkable coherence.
The generously sized 45mm case, sharp lines, and strong edges and silhouette express a spirit of exploration that pioneers new horizons, combining robustness with resilience. Durability has been further enhanced, offering an astonishing 200-meter water resistance for a cutting-edge chronograph with a transparent case back.
While exuding a modern aura, the design also echoes the faceted bezel of the retro-futuristic "Defy A3642" launched in the 1960s. This unique and bold design is further enhanced by the interplay of case materials and finishes. Two models feature matte titanium cases, while a third combines matte titanium with 18K rose gold. The micro-blasted surfaces, uniformly matte, develop a texture reminiscent of a weathered monolith over time.
Furthermore, the titanium model with blue accents showcases three distinct finishes: polished, satin-brushed, and matte.
On the dial, the groundbreaking 1/100th of a second chronograph caliber is revealed, featuring two escapements: one for timekeeping at 36,000 vibrations per hour, and another for the chronograph operating at 360,000 vibrations per hour. The open-worked sapphire crystal dial presents oversized, slightly overlapping chronograph counters, enhancing not only volume but also legibility.
To maintain a cohesive color palette and further accentuate the movement's depth, galvanic coloring has been applied. Black is used for the matte titanium models, blue for the polished models, and gold for the titanium and 18K rose gold model.
Three types of straps or bracelets are included as standard. These comprise a titanium bracelet with a micro-blasted or polished and satin-brushed finish, a rubber strap with a folding buckle matching the case, and, a first for the Defy collection, a Velcro® strap made of water-resistant textile material that can be easily adjusted on the go, making it suitable for any occasion. Beyond mere aesthetic changes, each material perfectly adapts to its surroundings and any extreme activity, offering a unique wearing experience with distinct characteristics. Additionally, these bracelets and straps feature a quick strap-change mechanism for effortless swapping.
Defy Extreme
- Ref. | 97.9100.9004/02.I001, 95.9100.9004/01.I001, 87.9100.9004/03.I001
- Movement | Automatic El Primero 9004
- Power Reserve | Over 50 hours
- Functions | Hours and minutes, small seconds, 1/100th of a second chronograph, 30-minute counter, 60-second counter, chronograph power reserve indication.
- Case Material | Ti (micro-blasted, 97.9100.9004/02.I001), Ti (brushed, polished, micro-blasted, 95.9100.9004/01.I001), Titanium (micro-blasted) and 18K RG (polished, 87.9100.9004/03.I001)
- Case Diameter | 45mm
- Bracelet/Strap Material | Ti (micro-blasted), rubber strap and Velcro® strap included
- Water Resistance | 20 ATM
- Price | ¥2,119,700 (97.9100.9004/02.I001, 95.9100.9004/01.I001), ¥2,596,000 (87.9100.9004/03.I001) (all prices include tax)
