The Low-Down

Robust, resilient, sleek, and assertively modern and masculine, the new DEFY Extreme is 45mm of advanced time telling. The DEFY line is all about superlative technical performance, a retro-futuristic aesthetic replete with cutting-edge materials positively purring with chronometric precision.

The three models in the new collection are made from black micro blasted matte titanium, blue brushed, polished and micro blasted titanium or matte titanium with rose gold. Each is designed to look uniformly weathered and worn-in by the elements over time.

Chronometrically, the headline ground breaker on the new DEFY Extreme is the 1/100th of a second chronograph calibre, with two escapements beating at 36’000 VpH for the timekeeping part and 360’000 VpH for the chronograph.

The new Extreme features oversized and slightly overlapping chronograph counters applied onto the transparent crystal dial. The hands and applied hour markers are also extra-large with generous application of Super-LumiNova.
The watch is powered by the El Primero 9004 Automatic with hours, minutes and small seconds, and a high beat frequency of 36000 Vph with 50 minutes of power reserve recorded on a power reserve indicator.

Each DEFY Extreme is equipped with three different straps with quick strap-change mechanisms to suit every occasion.
There’s a micro-blasted or polished and satin-brushed titanium bracelet. A rubber strap with a folding buckle matching the case. And, in a first for Zenith and the DEFY line, a water-resistant Velcro strap for rugged outdoor adventures.

IMHO

Compared to some of the more exotic Zenith’s ‘Xtreme’ models of the past, this new Extreme is buttoned down, smart and assertive. In January Zenith released the DEFY 21 Urban Jungle, also armed with a 1/100 second chronograph. 2021 is turning out to be a strong year for Zenith featuring sports chronographs with high-frequency movement. “This is Zenith’s laboratory, a platform for our wildest visions of watchmaking. It’s the equivalent of “concept cars” in the automotive world. This is where we innovate the most,” says Romain Marietta, Zenith Head of Product.

Tech Specs

Movement: El Primero 9004 automatic, frequency 36,000 VpH (5 Hz), 50 hours power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes in the center. Small seconds at 9 o’clock. 1/100th of a second Chronograph: Central chronograph hand that makes one turn each second, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, 60-second counter at 6 o’clock, Chronograph power-reserve indication at 12 o’clock.
Case: 45mm
Straps: Titanium bracelet, rubber, and Velcro
Price: $18,000 for titanium, and $22,000 for titanium with rose gold