By Kien Lee
As part of its 160th-anniversary celebrations, Zenith continues to honor its rich heritage with the unveiling of an extraordinary expression of its most daring chronograph: the DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli.
Produced as a strictly limited edition of just 50 pieces, this timepiece masterfully combines natural beauty with technical brilliance.
The 45mm timepiece is housed in a striking contrast of mirror-polished steel and the warm, matte radiance of microblasted yellow gold, which adorns the dodecagonal bezel and pusher protectors.
At its heart, the captivating openworked dial is meticulously crafted from lapis lazuli, a celestial blue stone whose deep hue perfectly echoes Zenith's signature color—a symbol of infinity and the pursuit of excellence. Each dial is a natural work of art, scattered with shimmering pyrite inclusions, guaranteeing that no two pieces are ever alike.
Through its translucent depth, the dial offers glimpses of the groundbreaking El Primero 9004 calibre within.
This mechanical marvel remains the only mechanical chronograph in regular production capable of measuring time with absolute precision down to 1/100th of a second. This remarkable feat is made possible by two independent escapements: one for timekeeping beating at 5Hz (36,000 VpH), and another dedicated to the chronograph operating at an astounding 50Hz (360,000 VpH).
The chronograph's central hand performs a full rotation of the dial every second, allowing for perfectly clear readings of elapsed times. The movement offers a power reserve of 50 hours.
True to the DEFY Extreme's versatile nature, this special edition comes with an interchangeable strap system, featuring three distinct options: a stainless steel bracelet, a black embossed rubber strap with a folding buckle, and a black Velcro strap—allowing the wearer to adapt the watch seamlessly from sport to sophistication.
The DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli, reference 06.9200.9004/51.1001 , is available now at Zenith boutiques, online, and through authorized retailers worldwide.
