Zenith launches the Defy Extreme Diver with El Primero movement

Zenith launched the Defy Extreme Diver, a professional dive watch inspired to the Defy models released from 1969 onwards. Price: €11,800

The new Zenith Defy Extreme Diver draws inspiration from the distinctive design of the Defy models released from 1969 onwards, characterized by their signature angular case and dodecagonal bezel.

Its 42.5 mm x 15.5 mm case is crafted in titanium, a metal known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio and remarkable resistance to corrosion, particularly in salty seawater.

Above the fixed dodecagonal bezel, the ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel is designed with grooved edges to ensure a secure grip during operation. Enhancing visibility in low-light underwater conditions, this bezel is engraved and filled with Super-LumiNova and vibrant colours.

On the caseband, at 9 o'clock, we find a helium escape valve for saturation diving while, on the other side, the oversized screw-down crown is protected by two titanium guards. 

The Defy Extreme Diver is rated to 60 bar (600 metres / 2,000 feet) of water-resistance. It meets the ISO 6425 requirements for professional diver watches, which include ISO 764 for paramagnetism as well as ISO 1413 for shock-resistance, making it a comprehensive diver’s watch suited to the most demanding conditions.

Characteristic of the Defy series, the dial showcases an intricate pattern of engraved four-pointed stars. Offered in black and blue variations with corresponding ceramic bezels, the metallic dials exhibit a sunburst finish, accentuated by rays extending from the Zenith star at 12 o’clock. Positioned at 3 o’clock, the date display harmonizes with the dial colour.

The generously sized hands and applied hour markers are coated with three distinct pigments of "X1" grade Super-LumiNova, emitting light in blue, green, and orange hues, facilitating easy distinction between the hour, minute, and second functions. The vibrant orange highlights pay homage to historical Defy diver models.

The Defy Extreme Diver is powered by the El Primero 3620-SC automatic high-frequency (5 Hz) manufacture calibre with 60 hours power reserve, visible through a sapphire display back – an uncommon feature among diver’s watches. This version of El Primero features a paramagnetic escapement with key components in non-metallic silicon.

Completing the Defy Extreme Diver is its titanium three-link bracelet as well as two supplied straps. The first additional strap is in FKM rubber, matching the dial colour with a Cordura-effect texture. The second is an extra-long strap made of recycled fishing nets, intended to be worn over a wetsuit. 

The Zenith Defy Extreme Diver, either in black (ref. 95.9600.3620/21.I300) or blue (ref. 95.9601.3620/51.I301), has a retail price of Euro 11,800 / US$ 11,300. zenith-watches.com

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