Zenith has launched the Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli model as a limited edition of just fifty units, with the addition of a lapis lazuli dial combined with Zenith’s highly technical and precise chronograph architecture. The lapis lazuli is placed on all four sub-dials of the watch, producing a deep, dark blue with flecks of light that appear to move when the watch is moving. This is Zenith’s second lapis lazuli dial released this year (the first being the Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli model in May).
The angular 45mm stainless steel case has a microblasted yellow gold bezel and crown protectors. Inside is a dual-escapement mechanical movement that operates at two different frequencies. The chronograph mechanism is operated at an extraordinary 50Hz, allowing the central chronograph seconds hand to rotate fully once per second, instead of completing its 360 degree rotation every sixty seconds (as seen on most chronographs). Due to the extremely high frequency of the chronograph mechanism, it requires a specific escapement designed solely for this purpose; the timekeeping mechanism operates at the more conventional 5Hz.
At the 9 o’clock position there are lapis lazuli dials showing running seconds, at the 3 o’clock position is a 30 minute chronograph totalizer, and at the 6 o’clock position is a 60 second chronograph register. At the 12 o’clock position is the power reserve indicator specifically for the chronograph function, so that the user can determine how much battery life remains for the high frequency complication separate from the overall power reserve of the main movement.
The Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli has an integrated strap that flows smoothly from the angular case maintaining the aggressive style language Zenith initiated with the Defy Extreme series. Thickness of the case measures 15.4mm and has a 51mm lug-to-lug distance, giving the watch a considerable presence on the wrist. The Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli offers water resistance up to 200m due to a closed-case design, even though it is a chronograph watch with push buttons and a multi-level dial.
Due to the nature of lapis lazuli as a semi-precious stone, each of the lapis lazuli sub-dials was individually shaped by hand and could be positioned at differing depths as necessary to accommodate the three chronograph registers, thus ensuring that the unique blue coloration and metallic pyrite inclusions that create the gold fleck effect would remain consistent throughout the dial.
Retail price for the Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli is CHF 32,900, approximately $33,900 or £31,395. Retailer distribution will be limited to Zenith boutiques and select authorized retailers, and production will be limited to 50 numbered models worldwide.
