Get ready to be dazzled—Zenith is shaking up the watch world once again with two bold additions to the Defy Extreme Chroma series. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are these limited-edition timepieces a masterpiece of modern horology or a daring leap too far? Let’s dive in and find out.
The Defy collection, which first made waves in 1969, has always been Zenith’s playground for innovation—pushing boundaries in design, movement, and materials. This tradition continues with the latest Defy Extreme Chroma models, each limited to just 100 pieces. Following the success of the 2022 and 2023 Chroma releases, these new editions are anything but ordinary.
Both watches boast a hefty 45mm titanium case, paired with either black or white ceramic components. At 15.4mm thick and 51mm lug-to-lug, these timepieces are unapologetically bold. One variant features microblasted titanium with black ceramic accents, while the other combines brushed and polished titanium with white ceramic. Both showcase a sapphire dial and a screw-down crown, blending functionality with high-end aesthetics.
At the heart of these watches is the El Primero 9004 movement, a dual-escapement powerhouse. One escapement ticks at 36,000 vph for precise timekeeping, while the other operates at a staggering 360,000 vph for the 1/100th-second chronograph. With a 50-hour power reserve, this movement is as reliable as it is impressive. And this is the part most people miss: The bridges are coated in a rainbow of colors, with a blue rotor on the black edition and a green rotor on the white edition—a subtle yet striking detail that sets these watches apart.
Versatility is key here, as each watch comes with three interchangeable strap options: a rubber strap matching the case color, a sleek titanium bracelet, and a black Velcro strap. Swapping them out is a breeze thanks to the quick-change system on the watch’s backside.
Priced at $20,600 each, these limited editions are available now. But don’t wait too long—with only 100 pieces per model, they’re sure to sell out fast.
What’s the verdict? I’m impressed by how these watches balance color and functionality. The chromatic details across the movement and dial feel purposeful, not just decorative, and the ceramic components add a clean, modern edge. While the 45mm size isn’t for everyone, those who can pull it off will find a timepiece that’s both fun and distinctive. The El Primero 9004 movement alone is worth the price of admission, but the Chroma treatment elevates it to a whole new level.
But here’s the question: Is the Defy Extreme Chroma a must-have for collectors, or does its bold design risk polarizing opinions? Let us know what you think in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
The Essentials
- Brand: Zenith
- Model: Defy Extreme Chroma
- Reference Numbers: 97.9113.9004/33.I200 (black) / 95.9114.9004/69.I203 (white)
- Diameter: 45mm
- Thickness: 15.4mm
- Case Material: Titanium with black ceramic (black model) / Titanium with white ceramic (white model)
- Dial Color: Black openworked / White openworked
- Indexes: Rhodium-plated, faceted, coated with rainbow-color varnish
- Water Resistance: 20 ATM
- Strap/Bracelet: Rubber strap (black or white), titanium bracelet, black Velcro strap
The Movement
- Caliber: El Primero 9004
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph
- Power Reserve: 50 hours
- Winding: Automatic
- Frequency: 36,000 vph (time) / 360,000 vph (chronograph)
- Additional Details: Rainbow PVD-coated bridges; blue (black model) or green (white model) rotor
Pricing & Availability
- Price: $20,600
- Availability: Limited
- Limited Edition: 100 pieces per model
For more details, visit Zenith Watches.
