ZENITH continues to push the boundaries of high-frequency chronometry and expressive design with the launch of the DEFY Extreme Chroma limited editions. Revealed in Le Locle on 2 December 2025, these striking new timepieces transform the world’s most advanced 1/100th of a second chronograph into a vivid mechanical spectacle, where colour, architecture, and performance converge.
Following the success of the DEFY 21 Chroma in 2022 and the Chroma II editions in 2023, the DEFY Extreme Chroma returns in two bold interpretations, each limited to just 100 pieces. Both versions combine titanium and ceramic construction with a dynamic spectrum of colours that accentuate the angular 45 mm DEFY Extreme case.
One edition features a micro-blasted titanium case paired with black accents, while the other blends titanium with white ceramic for a brighter, high-contrast aesthetic. Engineered for demanding conditions, both offer water resistance up to 20 ATM.
At the heart of each watch lies a unique execution of the El Primero 9004 calibre, ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency chronograph movement. Its bridges are PVD-coated in a radiant rainbow palette, visible through the openworked dial and echoed by the coloured markers, hands, and sub-dial accents. Each movement displays its own distinct chromatic composition, turning every watch into a singular mechanical artwork.
The visual drama continues on the reverse, where ZENITH’s signature star-shaped rotor appears in blue for the black edition and electric green for the white edition.
Technically, the El Primero 9004 remains unmatched. It uses two independent escapements: one beating at 5 Hz to ensure precise timekeeping, and a second operating at an astonishing 50 Hz to drive the chronograph.
This architecture allows the central chronograph hand to complete one full rotation every second, enabling measurements accurate to 1/100th of a second, a hallmark of the DEFY Extreme line.
Versatility is built into the design through a quick-change strap system, allowing wearers to switch effortlessly between a rubber strap, a titanium bracelet, and a Velcro strap.
The ZEINTH DEFY Extreme Chroma is available through ZENITH boutiques, online, and authorised retailers worldwide, offering collectors a bold expression of modern chronometry where technical mastery meets fearless colour experimentation.
