TWO FACES OF THE EXTREME
The Le Locle-based manufacture has rolled out two unique-looking variations of its up-to-the-minute dual-escapement chronograph with certified chronometry.
Since the word ‘go’, Zenith has constantly been enhancing its Defy Extreme collection, with 45 mm-diameter pieces, waterproof to depths of 200 m, occasionally made of precious metals, though more often than not crafted with state-of-the-art materials. All of these timekeepers come with an openworked dial, octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet. What’s more, they’re all driven by the El Primero 9004 caliber (50-hour power reserve). This modern-day upgrade of the well-known selfwinding movement from 1969 stands out with its dual escapement. One runs on a frequency of 360,000 vibrations an hour and measures elapsed time to 1/100th of a second. This means the direct-drive whirls round completely in just a second. The other, dedicated to time data, beats at 5 Hz. The new Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II and Defy Extreme Ultraviolet also feature these stylistic and technical assets.
Although both benefit from titanium’s qualities, the 25-piece-issued Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II also takes advantage of carbon’s one-of-a-kind properties. Moreover, this striking watch makes its mark with its lapis lazuli counters and its yellow gold-plated hands and markers. The Defy Extreme Ultraviolet combines titanium’s microblasted gray with violet-hued sapphire and a made-to-match rubber strap. The markers and hands adorned with white SLN C1 Super-LumiNova® are ever-so easy to read in this dazzling, yet highly-contrasted scenography.
