Luxury watchmaking often celebrates either technical innovation or artistic beauty. With the new ZENITH DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II, the Swiss manufacture proves that the two can coexist beautifully.
Limited to just 25 pieces worldwide, this latest edition of the DEFY Extreme brings together one of the most advanced mechanical chronograph movements in production with one of nature’s most captivating gemstones. The result is a watch that feels equally at home in a collector’s showcase or on the wrist of someone who appreciates cutting-edge engineering.
A Study in Contrasts
At first glance, the DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II is impossible to ignore.
Its bold 45mm case combines forged carbon with titanium, creating a lightweight yet incredibly robust construction. Unlike polished metals that reflect light, the matte texture of forged carbon absorbs it, giving the watch a stealth-like presence that perfectly suits the aggressive architecture of the DEFY collection.
Against this dark backdrop, the lapis lazuli chronograph counters become the undeniable focal point.
Every slice of lapis lazuli is naturally unique, with tiny pyrite inclusions shimmering like stars across a deep blue sky. No two watches will ever display exactly the same pattern, making each piece subtly individual.
Powered by the Legendary El Primero 9004
Beneath the openworked dial sits one of ZENITH’s most impressive achievements: the El Primero 9004.
The movement features two completely independent escapements, each designed for a specific purpose.
One escapement beats at 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) to keep precise time, while the second operates at an extraordinary 50 Hz (360,000 vibrations per hour) exclusively for the chronograph.
This innovative architecture enables the central chronograph hand to complete one full rotation every second, allowing elapsed time to be measured with remarkable precision to 1/100th of a second.
It’s a mechanical spectacle that remains one of the defining features of the DEFY Extreme collection.
Built for Performance, Designed for Everyday Wear
While the movement is undeniably technical, the DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II has also been designed with versatility in mind.
The watch is supplied with a black rubber strap featuring a folding clasp, alongside a black high-performance Velcro strap. Thanks to ZENITH’s integrated quick-change strap system, switching between the two requires no tools, making it easy to adapt the watch for different occasions.
The carbon and titanium construction also keeps the substantial 45mm case surprisingly lightweight, while its 20 ATM water resistance ensures it’s ready for active everyday use.
A Collector’s Edition
The DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II isn’t simply another colour variation.
By pairing forged carbon, titanium and natural lapis lazuli with one of the world’s most technically advanced mechanical chronographs, ZENITH has created a watch that celebrates both innovation and individuality.
With only 25 examples available worldwide, this is a timepiece destined for collectors who appreciate rare materials, exceptional engineering and distinctive design.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 10.9102.9004/51.I200
Limited Edition: 25 pieces
Case: 45mm Carbon & Titanium
Movement: El Primero 9004
Chronograph Accuracy: 1/100th of a second
Frequency: 5 Hz timekeeping / 50 Hz chronograph
Power Reserve: 50 hours
Water Resistance: 20 ATM
Dial: Openworked with natural lapis lazuli counters
Straps: Black rubber strap and black Velcro strap with interchangeable system
Final Thoughts
The DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II demonstrates that modern watchmaking isn’t only about improving performance. It’s also about creating emotion through materials, craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
Its forged carbon case speaks to contemporary engineering, while the natural beauty of lapis lazuli adds warmth and individuality. Combined with the remarkable El Primero 9004 movement capable of measuring time to 1/100th of a second, this limited edition showcases exactly what makes ZENITH one of the industry’s most innovative watchmakers.
For collectors seeking something that blends mechanical excellence with unmistakable character, the DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II stands out as one of the most compelling releases of the year.
At LVMH Watch Week 2026 in Milan, ZENITH presents a sharply focused vision—one that places the DEFY collection at the centre of its contemporary identity. Across revival pieces, refined three-hand models, ceramic chronographs, skeletonized movements, and a high-frequency tourbillon, ZENITH makes one thing clear: DEFY is no longer a category. It is a philosophy.
This year’s novelties explore the idea of urban resilience—how architecture, precision, and material innovation come together to create watches designed not only to be admired, but to endure.
DEFY Revival A3643: The Origin of the DEFY Language
The DEFY story begins in 1969, and in 2026, ZENITH returns to one of its earliest and most defining references: the DEFY Revival A3643.
True to the historical model, the watch features the legendary “Time-Safe” case, protected by a screwed 14-sided bezel and caseback—a design conceived to withstand extreme conditions. Rendered in stainless steel and sized at 37mm, the proportions remain faithful to the original while feeling perfectly attuned to modern preferences for compact, versatile watches.
A silver dial with applied indices and Super-LumiNova® ensures clarity, while the integrated steel bracelet—with a modern micro-adjustment clasp—adds contemporary comfort. Powering the watch is the Elite 670, a calibre that represents a milestone in ZENITH’s manufacture history: precise, slim, and engineered for long-term reliability.
Importantly, the A3643 is more than a revival. Its angular case architecture directly inspired the design language of the modern DEFY Skyline collection—making this watch the conceptual cornerstone of the entire DEFY universe.
DEFY Skyline 36mm: Modern Geometry in Refined Proportions
With the DEFY Skyline 36mm, ZENITH refines its urban design vocabulary into a more compact, unisex format without sacrificing presence.
The stainless-steel case retains the Skyline’s distinctive angular silhouette and dodecagonal bezel, while a new white-toned sunray dial introduces a softer, more luminous expression of the collection’s signature four-pointed star pattern. The result is a watch that feels architectural yet elegant—sporty, but undeniably refined.
Two interpretations define the range:
a classic steel bezel for understated versatility
a diamond-set dodecagonal bezel (52 diamonds, 1 carat) that elevates the watch into a more jewellery-forward territory while remaining unmistakably DEFY
Inside, the Elite 670 once again delivers automatic precision with a 50-hour power reserve. An interchangeable bracelet system with an additional rubber strap reinforces the Skyline’s everyday adaptability.
This is DEFY at its most accessible—confident, balanced, and effortlessly contemporary.
DEFY Skyline Chronograph Black Ceramic: High-Frequency, High Impact
The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Black Ceramic introduces a more assertive expression of the collection’s urban identity.
Clad entirely in black ceramic, the 42mm case and dodecagonal bezel amplify the Skyline’s sharp geometry while offering exceptional scratch resistance and durability. The black sunray dial, engraved with the star motif, creates depth and contrast beneath luminous applied indices.
At its core is the El Primero 3600, ZENITH’s modern high-frequency chronograph calibre. Beating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, it enables true 1/10th of a second measurement, displayed directly and intuitively. Despite this technical performance, the movement maintains a robust 60-hour power reserve, underscoring ZENITH’s mastery of efficiency at high frequency.
This watch embodies DEFY’s performance ethos—precision expressed through material innovation and architectural clarity.
DEFY Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic: Transparency with Intent
Skeletonization within the DEFY collection is not decorative—it is structural. The DEFY Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic demonstrates this philosophy with striking clarity.
The 41mm black ceramic case frames a skeletonized movement finished in rose-gold-toned PVD, creating a powerful contrast between darkness and warmth. The openworked architecture follows ZENITH’s star-shaped design language, ensuring that every bridge serves both mechanical and visual purpose.
Powering the watch is the El Primero 3620 SK, a high-frequency automatic movement that features a 1/10th of a second indicator designed for smooth, continuous motion. An integrated braking system prevents hand jumping, allowing the indicator to rotate fluidly—an example of functional innovation hidden beneath visual drama.
The result is a watch that reveals its mechanics without compromising legibility or balance.
DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton: A High-Frequency First
The most significant technical statement of ZENITH’s 2026 presentation arrives in the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton, limited to 50 pieces worldwide.
For the first time, ZENITH combines a high-frequency 5Hz tourbillon with a fully skeletonized architecture inside the DEFY Skyline case. Crafted in rose gold, the 41mm watch houses the El Primero 3630, a movement that redefines the relationship between complexity and efficiency.
The tourbillon cage—shaped like ZENITH’s iconic double-Z star—completes one rotation per minute at 6 o’clock. Despite the energy demands of a high-frequency tourbillon, the movement delivers an impressive 60-hour power reserve, achieved through an ultra-light aluminium cage weighing just 0.25 grams.
This watch represents the summit of the DEFY philosophy: architectural design, high-frequency precision, and haute horlogerie expertise unified in a single, uncompromising creation.
DEFY in 2026: A Unified Vision
Across every model unveiled at LVMH Watch Week 2026, ZENITH communicates a clear and disciplined message. DEFY is not defined by complication or material alone—it is defined by structure, frequency, and intent.
From the historical foundations of the A3643 to the technical audacity of the tourbillon skeleton, the DEFY collection expresses a singular vision of modern watchmaking—one that is urban, resilient, and relentlessly forward-looking.
In 2026, ZENITH does not chase trends. It builds frameworks—and dares time to keep up.
Much like ZENITH, the Middle East moves with intention, driven by a shared belief that progress belongs to those who dare to look ahead. The DEFY Skyline Skeleton Middle East Edition is born from that spirit, capturing the region’s architectural clarity, its light, and its unmistakable energy.
Across the Middle East, innovation rises from landscapes shaped by desert horizons and dynamic skylines. It is here that ZENITH presents the DEFY Skyline Skeleton Middle East Edition, a limited edition of 100 pieces that reflects the region’s golden warmth and its continuous pursuit of modernity.
Created for a region shaped by open horizons and bold architectural lines, the DEFY Skyline Skeleton Middle East Edition reflects the interplay of light and structure that defines its identity. The 41 mm faceted steel case, framed by the signature twelve-sided bezel, catches and sculpts the light with the same precision found in the region’s bold architectural silhouettes. Beneath the surface, the golden-toned openworked dial reveals the geometric structure of the El Primero 3620 SK high-frequency automatic movement, beating at 5 Hz and displaying 1/10th of a second, a hallmark of ZENITH’s mastery of precision chronometry.
The watch’s design echoes the architectural identity of the Middle East skylines defined by clean angles, vertical ambition, and wide horizons where light shapes every contour. The dialogue between gold and steel across the star-pattern openworked dial mirrors this balance between structure and openness, creating a piece that feels both refined and resolutely contemporary.
True to the DEFY Skyline philosophy, this edition includes ZENITH’s interchangeable strap system, allowing an effortless transition between the integrated steel bracelet and an additional patterned rubber strap, crafted for comfort in every environment.
The DEFY Skyline Skeleton Middle East Edition is a limited edition of 100 pieces, available exclusively through ZENITH boutiques across the Middle East.
Zenith interchangeable strap steel bracelet
Stainless steel twelve-facet bezel close-up
DEFY SKYLINE SKELETON
Reference: 03.9304.3620/07.I001
Key points: El Primero automatic high-frequency movement. 1/10th second indicator ·
Skeleton dial with golden tone. Stainless-steel case and bracelet. Screwed-in crown. Fully interchangeable strap system. Limited edition of 100 pieces, available exclusively in the Middle East. Movement: El Primero 3620 SK Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 60 hours Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre.1/10th of a second indicator at 6 o’clock. Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings Price: 11’900 CHF Material: Stainless steel Water resistance: 10 ATM Case: 41mm Dial: Skeleton dial with a golden tone and an Indo-Arabic small seconds counter
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel bracelet. 2nd bracelet black rubber with starry sky pattern. Stainless steel
folding clasp
One of the brand’s most striking creations, the Chroma editions embody ZENITH’s technical mastery and daring avant-garde spirit, seamlessly combining high-frequency chronometry with vibrant, expressive design. Following the resounding success of the 2022 DEFY 21 Chroma in white ceramic and the 2023 Chroma II editions in white and black ceramic, this bold fusion of cutting-edge engineering and artistic vision now returns in two new DEFY Extreme limited editions.
Beyond its remarkable technical prowess, the DEFY Extreme collection has always served as a platform for creativity and bold design expression. With the Chroma limited editions, the innovative ZENITH 1/100th of a second chronograph demonstrates how colour can be explored without limits, even on the world’s most advanced high-frequency chronograph.
Zenith Defy Extreme Chroma white edition titanium watch
Titanium case and black ceramic bezel detail
The two ZENITH DEFY Extreme Chroma editions combine titanium and ceramic, accentuated by a distinctive spectrum of colours. Their angular 45mm case comes either in microblasted titanium or in brushed and polished titanium, while the dodecagonal bezel, pusher protectors and crown are crafted in black micro-blasted titanium or white ceramic. The interplay of materials and finishes accentuates the DEFY Extreme’s architectural geometry, reinforcing its bold and dynamic character. Engineered for performance, it offers water resistance up to 20 ATM, making it ready for the most demanding conditions.
Inside the DEFY Extreme Chroma beats a unique version of the automatic El Primero 9004 calibre, whose bridges are PVD-coated in a spectrum of colours. This mechanical rainbow is partially revealed through the openworked black or white dial, where the markers and printings mirror the movement’s chromatic palette in a seamless gradient. Each movement displays its own distinctive colour composition. This vivid spectrum also extends to the tips of the subsidiary dial hands – for the chronograph hours and minutes at 9 and 3 o’clock, the chronograph power reserve at 12 o’clock, and the small seconds at 6 o’clock. On the reverse side, the polychrome theme continues with ZENITH’s signature star-shaped rotor, rendered in a striking blue hue for the black edition and electric green for the white edition.
From a technical standpoint, the El Primero 9004 sets itself apart through its ability to measure elapsed times to 1/100th of a second – a remarkable achievement made possible by two independent escapement systems, each with its own barrel and regulator. The first beats at 5 Hz (36,000 vph) to ensure precise timekeeping, while the second operates at an astonishing 50 Hz (360,000 vph) to drive the chronograph. The central chronograph seconds hand completes one full rotation of the dial every second, allowing readings of elapsed time accurate to 1/100th of a second.
Like all DEFY Extreme models, the Chroma editions feature a quick-change strap system, easily operated via push buttons on the back of the case. For enhanced versatility, each watch comes with three strap options: a black or white embossed rubber strap with folding buckle, a titanium bracelet with matching finishes, and a black Velcro strap.
The DEFY Extreme Chroma is released in two limited editions of 100 pieces each, available at ZENITH boutiques, online, and through authorized retailers worldwide.
DEFY EXTREME
Reference: 97.9113.9004/33.I200
Key points: 1/100th of a second chronograph movement. Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second for the chronograph hand. Screwed-in crown. Sapphire dial. Black rubber and additional titanium bracelet and Velcro strap. Fully interchangeable strap system. Movement: El Primero 9004 Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 50 hours Functions: 1 escapement for the watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz)
1 escapement for the chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz) Finishes: “Rainbow” PVD-coated bridges and special blue colored oscillating weight with satined finishings Price: 19’900 CHF / 21’600 Euros / 20’600 USD Material: Microblasted titanium Water resistance: 20 ATM Case: 45mm / Thickness : 15.4 mm / Lug to lug : 51 mm Dial: Black openworked Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “Rainbow” varnish. Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with colored varnish. Bracelet & Buckle: Black rubber with folding clasp, additional titanium bracelet and black Velcro strap.
DEFY EXTREME
Reference: 95.9114.9004/69.I203
Key points: 1/100th of a second chronograph movement. Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second for the chronograph hand. Screwed-in crown. Sapphire dial. White rubber and additional titanium bracelets and Velcro strap.. Fully interchangeable strap system. Movement: El Primero 9004 Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 50 hours Functions: 1 escapement for the watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz)
1 escapement for the chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz) Finishes: “Rainbow” PVD-coated bridges and special green colored oscillating weight with satined finishings Price: 19’900 CHF / 21’600 Euros / 20’600 USD Material: Titanium and white ceramic Water resistance: 20 ATM Case: 45mm / Thickness : 15.4 mm / Lug to lug : 51 mm Dial: White openworked Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “Rainbow” varnish. Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with colored varnish. Bracelet & Buckle: White rubber with folding clasp, additional titanium bracelet and black Velcro strap
Introduced in 2022, the ZENITH DEFY Skyline has rapidly established itself as one of the Manufacture’s contemporary icons. With its bold lines, integrated architecture, and distinctive technical edge, it has since been offered in numerous iterations exploring a wide spectrum of complications and materials. Today, ZENITH elevates the DEFY Skyline to new heights of refinement: for the first time, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon is crafted entirely in radiant rose gold. Its deep brick-red dial pays direct tribute to the historic ZENITH Manufacture in Le Locle, echoing the distinctive red-and-white brickwork and forging a tangible link between the brand’s heritage and its most cutting-edge creation.
The elevated essence of a contemporary classic
Launched as the modern heir to the original DEFY line of 1969, renowned for its boldness and resilience, the DEFY Skyline represents ZENITH’s vision of an urban timepiece that bridges heritage and innovation. Its angular geometry, strong silhouette and versatile design have made it a cornerstone of the Manufacture’scollections.
Now, with the tourbillon version, the DEFY Skyline appears in full rose gold, rediscovering its sharp facets through the warm glow of the precious metal.
Alternating satin-brushed and polished surfaces accentuate the 41mm case’s geometry, revealing a striking new perspective on its architectural design. As with previous DEFY Skyline Tourbillon editions, the dial is adorned with a mesmerizing pattern of engraved four-pointed stars that radiate outward from the tourbillon aperture at 6 o’clock. For this rose gold interpretation, ZENITH introduces a deep brick-red dial, a chromatic nod to the Manufacture’s historic building in Le Locle, with its distinctive red-and-white brickwork. Rose-gold hands, enhanced with Super-LumiNova, ensure legibility while harmonizing with the case’s luxurious tones, while the oscillating weight also bears the warm glow of gold, further underscoring the watch’s refined character.
At the heart of the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon beats the El Primero 3630 automatic high-frequency calibre. Entirely developed and manufactured in-house, it delivers a 5Hz (36,000 VpH) frequency and a power reserve of 50 hours. The tourbillon carriage, weighing a mere 0.25 grams, epitomizes ZENITH’s mastery of miniaturization and precision. The movement’s architecture echoes the starry geometry of the dial: the surfaces feature a contemporary 3D laser-engraved “côtes de Genève” motif radiating from the tourbillon in a sunray pattern, drawing the eye toward the beating heart of the watch. For the first time in the DEFY Skyline, the oscillating weight is also crafted in rose gold. Shaped as an openworked star, it allows for an unobstructed view of the calibre’s contemporary design.
This exclusive version is delivered on an integrated rose gold H-link bracelet, perfectly tapering from the case to the folding clasp, ensuring exceptional comfort. True to the DEFY Skyline spirit, versatility is key: the timepiece also comes with an additional brick-red rubber strap, perfectly matching the dial’s deep tone. Both can be exchanged effortlessly thanks to ZENITH’s intuitive quick-change system that requires no tools.
The new ZENITH DEFY Skyline Tourbillon is available exclusively through ZENITH boutiques worldwide, as well as a select network of authorized retailers.
DEFY SKYLINE TOURBILLON
Reference: 18.9301.3630/67.I001
Key points: Automatic El Primero Tourbillon. Starry sky dial pattern radiating from the
tourbillon. Screwed-in crown. Full Interchangeable strap system.
Movement: El Primero 3630
Frequency: 36’000 VpH – 5Hz
Power reserve: 50 hours
Functions: Hours & minutes; black tourbillon carriage shaped as the «double Z» star,
completing one rotation every 60 seconds at 6 o’clock
Finishes: Rose-gold openworked star-shaped oscillating weight with satin-brushed
surfaces; 3D laser-engraved “côtes de Genève” pattern radiating from the tourbillon.
Price: 89 900 CHF / 97 400 EUR / 93 300 USD
Material: Rose gold
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41 mm
Dial: Brick-red sunray-patterned dial adorned with engraved four-pointed stars radiating from the tourbillon
aperture
Hour markers: Faceted with Super-LumiNova SLN C1
Hands: Rose-gold faceted hands with Super-LumiNova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Integrated rose-gold H-link bracelet with folding clasp. Additional brick-red rubber strap
included. Both equipped with ZENITH’s interchangeable strap system requiring no tools.
Two pillars of Swiss excellence, ZENITH and USM Modular Furniture, have come together to launch an exclusive watch collection that fuses horological mastery with architectural ingenuity.
This collaboration pays tribute to the groundbreaking spirit of the 1960s — the decade that saw the creation of the USM Haller modular system (1965) and the debut of ZENITH’s revolutionary El Primero chronograph (1969). Reimagining what might have happened had their creative paths crossed at that pivotal moment, ZENITH and USM present a bold reinterpretation of the original ZENITH DEFY, now introduced as a chronograph. The result reflects their shared values: Swiss precision, purposeful aesthetics, and a vision of modernity that transcends time. Accompanied by a custom-designed USM Haller timepiece chest created specifically for this edition, the timepiece reflects a mutual elevation of watchmaking and modular design, a thoughtful interplay where each enhances the other. Together, they form a cohesive whole where design and precision meet: this timepiece embodies a seamless blend of form and function. More than a collaboration, it is a statement of enduring craftsmanship and forward-thinking vision. Conceived to resonate not only with collectors and aficionados of fine watchmaking, but also with designers, architects, and art enthusiasts, this capsule edition pays tribute to creative minds and visionaries across disciplines.
To bring this original collaboration to life, ZENITH and USM delved into the bold spirit of the 1960s — a transformative era that redefined form and function, and a pivotal moment in the histories of both brands. Asking themselves, “What might these two icons of Swiss craftsmanship have created together back then?”, they set out to design something entirely new, a timepiece that never was, yet one that seamlessly channels the aesthetic and cultural codes of the era.
The 1969 ZENITH DEFY served as the natural starting point for this creative fusion. With its sharply angular case and faceted contours, the DEFY’s bold, octagonal silhouette and fourteen-sided bezel echo the signature design language of USM — celebrating clarity, structure, and strength. The result is a striking interplay of geometry and surface, where each finish reflects the shared values of both houses.
Though the original DEFY was offered in multiple iterations and laid the foundation for today’s DEFY collection, it was never produced as a chronograph.
The new DEFY Chronograph USM is, in essence, a piece of “imagined heritage” — an answer to the question: What if the 1969 DEFY had been equipped with the groundbreaking El Primero, the world’s first high-frequency automatic chronograph? And further still, what if it had drawn subtle inspiration from another design icon of the same era, the USM Haller system?
Patented in 1965, the USM Haller modular furniture system has become a cult symbol of enduring modernity. Defined by its chrome-plated steel tubes, connector ball joints, and coloured metal panels, it remains a masterpiece of clarity, versatility, and industrial elegance. Decades later, its capacity to evolve and inspire creative expression remains unmatched, a perfect counterpart to ZENITH’s own legacy of precision and innovation.
The DEFY Chronograph USM is housed in a compact 37.3 mm stainless steel case that stays true to the bold geometry of the original DEFY. Its octagonal shape is accentuated by a 14-sided bezel, while pump-style chronograph pushers enhance its vintage-inspired silhouette. The watch is paired with the iconic “ladder” bracelet, originally designed in 1969 by the renowned Gay Frères company exclusively for ZENITH. Water resistance is rated at 10 ATM, ensuring robustness to match its design integrity.
The dial is marked by applied square hour markers with horizontal grooves, reinforcing the watch’s architectural character. Available in four vibrant USM signature colours – USM Green, USM Pure Orange, USM Golden Yellow, and USM Gentian Blue – each variation pays homage to the modular aesthetic of the USM Haller system. The three overlapping chronograph counters are rendered in silver with a fine concentric circular finish, adding both texture and depth, a subtle nod to the iconic USM handle through their rhodium-plated azuré pattern.
A subtle yet playful detail: the chronograph second hand is tipped with a miniature USM Haller ball joint, filled with SuperLuminova for visibility in low light. When the chronograph is activated, it reveals the ZENITH star cleverly hidden beneath, a nod to the intricate storytelling woven into the piece. Each dial colour is produced in a limited edition of 60 pieces.
At the heart of the DEFY Chronograph USM is the legendary El Primero 400 calibre, built upon the legacy of the iconic El Primero 3019 PHC, the world’s first automatic high-frequency chronograph introduced by ZENITH in 1969. Over 55 years later, this movement continues to set the standard in precision chronometry with its 5Hz high-frequency escapement, automatic winding, and column-wheel chronograph architecture. It powers central hour and minute hands, small seconds at 9 o’clock, chronograph functions, and a date window at 4:30.
Visible through the transparent sapphire case-back, the movement’s rotor is adorned with an openworked ZENITH star motif, flanked by the ZENITH El Primero and USM logos, a refined detail that speaks to the harmony between horological and architectural precision.
Each watch is available individually or as a set, and each option includes exclusive USM Modular furniture and a unique watch box. The DEFY Chronograph is available exclusively from ZENITH’s physical, online boutiques and through authorized retailers worldwide.
A tribute to timeless design
Benoit de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH:“This partnership unites the excellence of Swiss design and horology, embodying a mutual appreciation for enduring, modern aesthetics. The modular design of USM Haller, celebrated for its functional beauty, resonates with our own dedication to craftsmanship in watchmaking.”
Alexander Schärer, CEO & President of the Board:“Both USM Modular Furniture and ZENITH were founded as owner-driven workshops integrated in a microcosm of Swiss craftsmanship — a shared origin that has naturally guided us toward partnership. ZENITH is a company that not only mirrors our heritage, but also embodies values profoundly aligned with our own. Though our products, industries, and even our clientele may appear distinct at first glance, they are ultimately bound by a shared devotion to timeless quality, refined aesthetics, and purposeful functionality.”
Key points: Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown. Limited edition of 60 pieces. Movement: El Primero 400 Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 55 hours Functions: Functions: Hours and minutes in the center, small seconds at 9 o’clock Chronograph: – Central chronograph hand – 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock – 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock Date indication at 4:30 Finishes: Oscillating weight with “Côtes de Genève” motif and bearing Zenith & USM Logo Price: 10’900 CHF Material: Stainless steel Water resistance: 10 ATM Case: 37 mm Dial: USM Gentian Blue Hour markers: Rhodium-plated Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel “ladder” bracelet
Key points: Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown. Limited edition of 60 pieces. Movement: El Primero 400 Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 55 hours Functions: Hours and minutes in the center, small seconds at 9 o’clock Chronograph: – Central chronograph hand – 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock – 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock Date indication at 4:30 Finishes: Oscillating weight with “Côtes de Genève” motif and bearing Zenith & USM Logo Price: 10’900 CHF Material: Stainless steel Water resistance: 10 ATM Case: 37 mm Dial: USM Golden Yellow Hour markers: Rhodium-plated Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel “ladder” bracelet
Key points: Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown. Limited edition of 60 pieces. Movement: El Primero 400 Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 55 hours Functions: Hours and minutes in the center, small seconds at 9 o’clock Chronograph: – Central chronograph hand – 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock – 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock Date indication at 4:30 Finishes: Oscillating weight with “Côtes de Genève” motif and bearing Zenith & USM Logo Price: 10’900 CHF Material: Stainless steel Water resistance: 10 ATM Case: 37 mm Dial: USM green Hour markers: Rhodium-plated Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel “ladder” bracelet
Key points: Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph movement. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown. Limited edition of 60 pieces. Movement: El Primero 400 Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reserve: 55 hours Functions: Hours and minutes in the center, small seconds at 9 o’clock Chronograph: – Central chronograph hand – 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock – 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock Date indication at 4:30 Finishes: Oscillating weight with “Côtes de Genève” motif and bearing Zenith & USM Logo Price: 10’900 CHF Material: Stainless steel Water resistance: 10 ATM Case: 37 mm Dial: USM Pure Orange Hour markers: Rhodium-plated Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel “ladder” bracelet
A fragment of the universe, beating with time. ZENITH takes its most iconic modern chronograph to new heights, or rather, to new realms, with the introduction of the CHRONOMASTER Sport Meteorite. Fusing cutting-edge chronometry with celestial beauty, this latest evolution of the CHRONOMASTER sport brings an extraterrestrial allure to a watch already celebrated for its performance and precision.
Winner of the 2021 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève “Chronograph” prize, the CHRONOMASTER Sport is a bold expression of ZENITH’s unrivalled expertise in high-frequency automatic chronographs. Distinguished by its 1/10th of a second precision, it stands as a benchmark in contemporary watchmaking. Now, with a dial crafted from an actual meteorite, it becomes a poetic reminder of time’s cosmic scale.
Each dial begins its journey millions of years ago in the void of space, before arriving on Earth and ultimately at the heart of ZENITH’s workshop in Le Locle. Meticulously hand-finished to reveal the unique Widmanstätten pattern, a naturally occurring geometric structure formed by the slow cooling of molten iron in space, the grey meteorite dial is never replicated, never repeated. Against this galactic canvas, ZENITH’s signature tri-colour counters in silver, light grey, and anthracite provide a harmonious contrast, each detailed with a circular azuré finish. Applied baton-style hour markers and hands, treated with C1 Super-LumiNova, ensure legibility in any light. A discreet date window at 4:30 completes the display. Encased in a 41mm stainless steel case with a sleek, contemporary silhouette and pump-style pushers, the CHRONOMASTER Sport retains the DNA of the legendary 1969 A386 model. Its black ceramic bezel, graduated over 10 seconds, offers both durability and precise readability. The polished and satin-brushed surfaces elevate its sporty-chic aesthetic, while water resistance up to 10 ATM ensures everyday resilience.
At its core beats the El Primero 3600, the latest generation of ZENITH’s legendary chronograph calibre. With a 5 Hz (36,000 VpH) frequency and a silicon escape wheel, it enables the chronograph hand to make a complete rotation every 10 seconds, capturing elapsed time to the nearest tenth of a second. Its 60-hour power reserve and stop-seconds mechanism deliver reliability and precision. Through the sapphire caseback, the movement reveals its refined architecture, including a blue column wheel, horizontal clutch, and openworked rotor adorned with the ZENITH star.
The CHRONOMASTER Sport METEORITE is presented on a robust integrated steel bracelet with brushed and polished links, fastened by a double-folding clasp. An additional black rubber strap with matching clasp is included for added versatility.
Once a Japan-exclusive, the CHRONOMASTER Sport METEORITE is now available worldwide, exclusively through ZENITH boutiques (in-store and online) and authorized retailers.
CHRONOMASTER SPORT
Reference: 03.3120.3600/76.M3100
Key points: Date indication at 4:30, Stop-second mechanism, Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second, 1/10th of a second indication on the ceramic bezel, Increased power reserve of 60 hours
Movement: El Primero 3600
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Powerreserve: 60 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre, small seconds at 9 o’clock, date at 4:30, 1/10th of a second Chronograph:
– Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds
– 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock
– 60-second counter at 3 o’clock
Finishes: New star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings.
Price: 16’900 CHF / 18’300 Euros / 17’500 USD
Material: Stainless steel with black ceramic bezel
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41mm / Thickness : 13.6 mm / Lug to lug : 47 mm
Dial: Meteorite
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp. Additional black rubber strap included.
Big box office hits often lead to sequels. Blockbusters, however, need a “threequel” for completion. Following the sell-out success of the micro-blasted titanium DEFY Classic Skeleton Night Surfer in 2021 and DEFY Skyline Skeleton Night Surfer El Primero in 2023, ZENITH and Time+Tide now unveil their
third and final collaboration in the “Surfer Trilogy”. Introducing the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic. This new limited-edition watch retain a blue gradient openworked dial concept that is consistent across all three editions. It is a summer dream of a combination, with a beach-inspired twist.
Following the dark micro-blasted titanium editions from the first two collaborations between the Manufacture and the media & retail trailblazers, the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic offers a fresh take on this bold, architectural timepiece. Sleek and cool on the wrist, its 41mm case combines modern resilience, versatility, and comfort—being ultra-light and scratch-resistant enough for a day on the sand. With a screw-down crown and water resistance of 10 ATM (100 metres), the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic is just as ready to head into the waves.
Perfectly complementing the white ceramic case and integrated ceramic bracelet is its gradient blue open dial and skeletonised movement. Continuing from the first two ZENITH x Time+Tide collaborations’ concept, the open dial fades from darker blue at the top to a breezy light blue at the bottom. The bridges of the dial adopt the form of ZENITH’s five-pointed star which is comprised of Super-LumiNova to enhance visual impact at night. This is a return to a design feature from the original DEFY Classic Skeleton Night Surfer – the only other time in its history that ZENITH has offered a luminescent star
logo.
Visible through this openworked dial, as well as the sapphire display back, is the skeletonised automatic high-frequency El Primero 3620 SK caliber. In another important premiere, the caliber has been rendered to match the star-shaped bridges, offering the wearer a seamless light blue tone to the dial.
Derived from the iconic ZENITH high-frequency El Primero chronograph movement, it displays the hours and minutes while its 1/10th of a second hand is driven directly from the escapement, which beats at 5Hz (36’000 VpH). Its ‘hacking seconds’ mechanism allows for precise time-setting. The bi directional automatic winding mechanism delivers a power reserve of approximately 55 hours. In keeping with the watch’s theme, its mainplate, bridges and star-shaped rotor are rendered in a striking blue finish.
The versatile DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic comes on an integrated white ceramic bracelet. A white patterned rubber strap is also provided to make the most of the case’s ingenious quick strap-change mechanism which requires no tools to operate.
“With this third chapter in our collaboration, we’re not just continuing a story, we’re elevating it. Each edition has deepened our creative dialogue, and this new release is the boldest expression yet of what we can achieve together.”Benoît de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH.
“There’s a huge risk in trying for a trilogy when the first two collabs have been so popular, but when we saw the prototype of an ‘inverted’ Night Surfer, in brushed white ceramic, we just had to make it happen. The gradient light blue dial sealed it. Best summer watch ever.” Andrew McUtchen, Founder of Time+Tide
The ZENITH Defy Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic is a limited edition of 100 watches, available from Time + Tide, from authorized ZENITH retailers worldwide as well as ZENITH physical and online boutiques around the world.
DEFY SKYLINE SKELETON WHITE SURFER CERAMIC
Reference: 49.9309.3620/85.I001
Key points: : El Primero 3-hand watch. High frequency indication: 1/10th of a
second subdial at 6 o’clock. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown. Full
Interchangeable strap system.
Limited edition of 100 pieces.
Movement: El Primero 3620 SK automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 55 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre 1/10th of a second counter at 6
o’clock
Finishes: Light blue colored main plate on movement + Special light blue colored
oscillating weight with satined finishings.
Price: 18’900 CHF / 20’500 Euros / 19’600 USD
Material: White Ceramic
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41mm
Dial: Gradient blue
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: White ceramic bracelet and folding clasp. Comes with a white rubber strap
with starry sky pattern and folding clasp.
Few timepieces have been as influential and iconic as the Zenith A386, one of the first watches to feature the revolutionary El Primero calibre in 1969. More than a mere remake, the modern CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL preserves the timeless design of its predecessor while integrating the high-performance, 21st-century version of the El Primero, capable of measuring time to 1/10th of a second. Now, for the very first time, the CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL combines a striking blue dial with the emblematic tricolour subdials, a signature of ZENITH’s chronographs since 1969, offering a bold new expression of the original A386’s design language.
The CHRONOMASTER Original returns with a dial reinterpreted in blue, the brand’s signature colour. Contemporary yet timeless, this fresh take on the classic design blends elegance with a modern edge, reaffirming its status as a longstanding icon in the world of precision watchmaking. Set against a midnight blue background, the emblematic overlapping registers of the first-ever ZENITH El Primero Ref. A386 remain faithful to the original’s grey, dark grey, and blue composition. Rendered in a silver tone, the 1/10th of a second chapter ring offers striking contrast and exceptional legibility. This thoughtful layout is completed with applied baton-style markers and hands.
The compact 38mm stainless steel case of the CHRONOMASTER Original is a faithful reproduction of the iconic 1969 reference A386. Modeled directly from the original blueprints, it features a round, bezel-less design with pump-style pushers, a sloped profile, and faceted lugs. Its dynamic silhouette is brought to life by a mix of radial-brushed and polished surfaces. Water resistance is rated to 5 ATM.
At the heart of the CHRONOMASTER Original lies a modern evolution of the iconic ZENITH chronograph movement. Harnessing the full potential of its 5 Hertz frequency, the automatic El Primero 3600 enables precise time measurements down to 1/10th of a second with exceptional clarity. This is achieved through its central chronograph seconds hand, which makes a full rotation every 10 seconds instead of the standard 60. The movement also features a stop-seconds mechanism and an extended power reserve of 60 hours. A sapphire case back reveals its intricate architecture, showcasing the column wheel and the open rotor adorned with ZENITH’s signature five-pointed star.
The new CHRONOMASTER Original with a blue dial is delivered with both a blue calfskin leather strap featuring tone-on-tone stitching, and a 3-link stainless steel bracelet — each secured with a folding clasp.
The CHRONOMASTER Original is available at all ZENITH boutiques, online and in-store, as well as through authorized retailers worldwide.
CHRONOMASTER ORIGINAL
Reference: 03.3200.3600/52.C910
Key points: Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second.
Power reserve of 60 hours. Date indication at 4:30 o’clock. Stop-second mechanism.
Movement: El Primero 3600 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: approx. 60 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre. Small seconds at 9 o’clock 1/10th of a second
Chronograph: – Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds – 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock – 60-second counter at 3 o’clock
Finishes: Star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings
Material: Stainless steel
Water resistance: 5 ATM
Case: 38mm / Thickness : 12.6 mm / Lug to lug : 46 mm
Dial: Blue-toned sunray-patterned with three different-coloured counters
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps : Blue calfskin leather strap with steel folding clasp. Metal bracelet with folding clasp included
Since 1969, the ZENITH DEFY collection has stood as a symbol of unwavering strength and precision. Nicknamed the “time safe” for its robust construction and ability to protect the movement like a vault, the DEFY quickly became a benchmark in durability. Among its most iconic iterations was the DEFY Diver A3648, known as the DEFY Plongeur, a true professional dive watch featuring a 600-meter water resistance and a rotating bezel. In 2024, ZENITH reaffirmed its commitment to extreme performance with the launch of the modern DEFY Extreme Diver and a faithful revival of the coveted A3648. Today, both models are reimagined in striking micro-blasted titanium “Shadow” editions, fusing vintage inspiration with bold, contemporary design. These stealthy new interpretations are built for modern adventurers and ready to descend into the abyss.
Engineered for the most demanding underwater exploration, the DEFY Extreme Diver and DEFY Revival Diver are crafted from lightweight yet exceptionally robust titanium. Their bold, angular DEFY cases are entirely micro-blasted to achieve a matte finish that accentuates their strong, architectural lines and gives them a distinct stealth aesthetic. While their dark tones and subdued textures evoke a sense of technical sophistication, vibrant yellow accents inject a burst of energy and high visibility, making these timepieces as functional as they are striking.
DEFY Extreme Diver: Designed for the Deep, Built for the Extreme
A modern descendant of ZENITH’s pioneering 1969 DEFY dive watches, the DEFY Extreme Diver is a contemporary instrument engineered for the most challenging underwater conditions. Housed in a 42.5mm micro-blasted titanium case, this rugged timepiece is as functional as it is striking. Sitting atop the fixed dodecagonal base is a unidirectional rotating bezel in black ceramic, fully filled with Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility. Precision operation is ensured, while the fluted bezel edge allows for easy handling, even with gloves.
Designed for saturation diving, the watch boasts a 600-meter water resistance and features a helium escape valve, alongside a screw-down crown flanked by protective guards. The star-patterned black dial is equipped with C1 Super-LumiNova markers and hands, punctuated by vivid yellow accents that ensure visibility in low-light conditions.
In a rare feat for a watch of such depth rating, ZENITH has integrated an exhibition case back that reveals the El Primero 3620 automatic movement, finished in a sleek modern black. This time-only calibre beats at a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour and features a paramagnetic escapement with key components crafted from silicon. The bidirectional winding system provides a robust 60-hour power reserve.
Completing the DEFY Extreme Diver is a micro-blasted titanium three-link bracelet, as well as two interchangeable strap options. The first is a durable black rubber strap with a Cordura-effect texture and folding clasp. The second, is a black and yellow single-piece fabric strap secured with a pin buckle. Thanks to the integrated quick strap-change mechanism, switching between options is effortless and tool-free.
DEFY Revival Diver: Heritage Reborn in Titanium
A faithful recreation of the original DEFY A3648 diver’s watch from 1969, the DEFY Revival Diver brings vintage charm into the modern era with a dark, faceted 37mm micro-blasted titanium case. Staying true to the original DEFY design language, the signature fourteen-sided bezel is retained, now placed above a round unidirectional rotating bezel crafted in titanium and fitted with a yellow-tinted sapphire insert. For improved ergonomics, the screw-down crown is positioned at 4:30, just as it was on the original. Like its contemporary counterpart, the DEFY Revival Diver boasts a water resistance of 600 meters, or 1,969 feet, a subtle nod to the year the DEFY collection was born.
The bold black-and-yellow theme carries over to the dial, where a matte black surface is energized by yellow accents on the hands and minute track. The hands and hour markers are filled with white Super-LumiNova, ensuring clarity and visibility in the darkest depths.
Powering the DEFY Revival Diver is the automatic Elite 670 calibre, which displays the hours, minutes, seconds, and date. Remarkably, despite the 600-meter depth rating and compact size, the watch features an exhibition case back offering a clear view of the movement. The oscillating weight is adorned with Geneva stripes and skeletonized in the shape of the ZENITH star. Operating at a frequency of 4 Hz, the Elite 670 delivers a power reserve of 50 hours.
The watch is fitted with the iconic Gay Frères style bracelet, crafted in lightweight titanium with the same micro-blasted finish as the case. This enhances wearing comfort while the titanium folding clasp ensures a secure and refined fit.
The DEFY Extreme Diver and the DEFY Revival Diver are available at all ZENITH boutiques, online and in-store, as well as from authorized retailers worldwide.
Key points: Automatic El Primero 3 hands. Shadow signature (microblasted titanium). Black ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel filled with SuperLuminova. Date indication at 3 o’clock. Stop-second mechanism. Screwed-in crown. Helium valve. 600M Water resistance
Movement: El Primero 3620 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre. Central seconds hand. Date indication at 3 o’clock
Finishes: Star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings
Price: 11’900 CHF / 12’900 Euros / 12’300 USD
Material: Microblasted titanium
Water resistance: 60 ATM
Case: 42.5mm / Thickness : 15.5 mm / Lug to lug : 47.4 mm
Dial: Black & yellow matte with starry sky pattern
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 3 straps : Black “cordura effect” rubber with folding clasp. Microblasted titanium bracelet with folding clasp included. Black & yellow fabric strap with pin buckle included
