In the world of haute horlogerie, where craftsmanship and innovation converge, ZENITH stands as a beacon of excellence. With its latest release, the DEFY 21 Chroma II limited editions, the Swiss watchmaker once again pushes the boundaries of technical precision and design aesthetics. These two electrifying timepieces, presented in white and black ceramic, are a testament to ZENITH’s commitment to redefining the art of watchmaking.
ZENITH’s DEFY collection has long been a platform for the brand to showcase its technical prowess and cutting-edge developments. Beyond the intricate mechanisms and high-frequency precision that define the collection, ZENITH brings a modernistic and edgy design language to the forefront. Whether through the use of gemstones or collaborations with artists, the brand seamlessly intertwines high-frequency precision with a burst of colors and contrasts.
The DEFY 21 Chroma II limited editions embody this philosophy, demonstrating how vibrant colors can be seamlessly integrated into the world’s most advanced high-frequency chronograph. These timepieces are a continuation of the success of the DEFY 21 Chroma limited edition, which took the horological world by storm when it was unveiled during LVMH Watch Week in 2022. With its white ceramic case, a kaleidoscope of color accents, and the groundbreaking high-frequency 1/100th of a second automatic chronograph calibre, the DEFY 21 Chroma captured the imagination of watch enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Building on the success of the original Chroma, ZENITH introduces the DEFY 21 Chroma II limited editions in black and white ceramic variants. However, these editions offer more than just a change in materials – they provide a fresh take on the spectrum of colors. The black ceramic version showcases a range of tones rooted in primary colors, while the white ceramic variant introduces brighter accents, with an emphasis on captivating blues and playful pinks.
The ceramic cases serve as canvases for a mesmerizing rainbow that refracts across the open dial, movement, and hands. This gradient of colors stretches across the markers and the 1/100th of a second scale, extending beyond the dial and even seeping into the case itself. The attention to detail is remarkable, with the rubber grip ring of the crown and the stitching on the cordura-effect rubber straps following the precise arrangement of colors found on the dial.
The intricacy of the DEFY 21 Chroma II’s design is matched only by the complexity of its movement. The open dial showcases raised chronograph counters that harmonize with the colors of the cases. Yet, it is beneath this captivating surface that the true artistry resides. The movement, visible through both the dial and the sapphire case back, boasts an intricate construction that exemplifies ZENITH’s watchmaking prowess.
At the heart of these timepieces lies the El Primero 21 automatic high-frequency 1/100th of a second chronograph movement. This masterpiece operates at two distinct frequencies: 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) for timekeeping and an astonishing 50Hz (360,000 vibrations per hour) for the chronograph function. The movement’s bridges are meticulously finished in various metallic colors, mirroring the gradient of the dial’s markers, a testament to the brand’s dedication to precision and aesthetics.
The $15,600 USD DEFY Chroma II in white ceramic is a limited edition of only 500 pieces. It is available at ZENITH boutiques and selected retailers around the world. Limited to 500 pieces, the black ceramic edition retails for $15,600 USD and can be found at all ZENITH authorized points of sale.
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