time-keeper


Zenith gives the Defy Extreme Mirror a conceptual camouflage

December 2023


Zenith gives the Defy Extreme Mirror a conceptual camouflage

An unexplained watchmaking phenomenon has entered our atmosphere. The vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture unveils an unprecedented and conceptual take on its staple 1/100th of a second chronograph, reimagined as a mirroring camouflage.

T

he ultimate, ultramodern camouflage watch has arrived. A monolithic object that reflects all light and colours – yet has no colours of its own. A form so geometrically outstanding, but finished in such a way that it blends right in with its surroundings. An engine that operates at such a high frequency rate, it’s nothing short of astounding. The Defy Extreme line is not only inspired by the elements, but also build to adapt and blend into them. With the Defy Extreme Mirror, Zenith is exploring a totally new expression of its most rugged chronograph to date that seemingly blends reality and our perception of our surroundings.

Shrouded in mystery and intrigue, the Defy Extreme Mirror evokes some kind of UFO that has masked its arrival on our planet. With its fully mirror-polished metal exterior, the earth, the sky and the entire horizon are reflected without distortion. Paradoxical, the Defy Extreme Mirror is at once eye-catching and stealthy. It doesn’t attempt to hide in its surrounding, but blend in completely by reflecting it entirely from its gleaming surface. The highly angular case as well as its integrated bracelet are crafted in stainless steel, which are then immaculately mirror-polished all over for a chrome-like appearance.

Zenith gives the Defy Extreme Mirror a conceptual camouflage

And it’s not just the case that’s mirrored. The open multi-layered dial features a central element in sapphire crystal with a metallic mirrored finish that’s translucent yet reflective. The 1/100th of a second chronograph scale features satin-brushed metallic elements, keeping the dial easy to read while maintaining the fluid, all-metal theme.

Partially visible through the open dial as well as the sapphire case back is the world’s fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production, offering 1/100th of a second time measurements by means of two independent escapements beating at the rates of 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph function. For the Defy Extreme Mirror, the star-shaped winding rotor is finished in a silvery-grey metallic tone to match the case and dial elements.

Zenith gives the Defy Extreme Mirror a conceptual camouflage

Completing the look of this intriguing piece are the supplied durable black Velcro strap and rubber strap, which can be easily swapped with the steel bracelet using the quick strap-change mechanism on the back of the case.

The Defy Extreme Mirror is available at Zenith physical and online boutiques as well as authorised retailers around the world.

Zenith gives the Defy Extreme Mirror a conceptual camouflage

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Reference: 03.9102.9004/90.I001

Key points: Global Mirror Effect. Sapphire dial. 1/100th of a second Chronograph movement. Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second for the Chrono hand. 1 escapement for the Watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz) and 1 escapement for the Chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz). Certified Chronometer. Screwed-in crown. 2 straps included: 1 Rubber with folding buckle & 1 Velcro. Full interchangeable strap system.

Movement: El Primero 9004

Frequency: 36’000 VpH – 5Hz (Watch) and 360,000 VpH - 50 Hz (Chronograph)

Power reserve: min. 50 hours (Watch) and approx. 50 min (Chronograph)

Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre. 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.

Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings

Price: 25,900 CHF

Material: Polished Stainless Steel

Water resistance: 20 ATM

Case: 45mm

Crystal: Flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides

Case-back: Transparent sapphire crystal

Dial: Mirror Tinted sapphire with three coloured counters

Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Super-Luminova SLN C1

Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Super-Luminova SLN C1

Bracelet & Buckle: Full interchangeable strap system. Full polished metal bracelet with folding clasp. 2 straps included: 1 Rubber with folding buckle & 1 Velcro.

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