Zenith Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II: A Chronograph Built on Contrast

Limited to just 25 pieces worldwide, this striking new Zenith chronograph pairs some of the industry's most advanced engineering with one of nature's most captivating gemstones. Forged carbon, titanium and vivid lapis lazuli come together in a watch that feels equally at home in a contemporary art gallery as it does on the wrist of a serious collector.

Beneath its bold architecture beats one of modern horology's most remarkable movements: the El Primero 9004, the only serially produced mechanical chronograph capable of measuring 1/100th of a second. It's an achievement that continues to define Zenith’s pursuit of precision while proving that technical excellence doesn't have to come at the expense of beauty.

Read on for a closer look at the design, movement and craftsmanship behind the new Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II.

•  Limited edition of only 25 pieces worldwide.
•  El Primero 9004 dual-escapement calibre capable of measuring 1/100th of a second.
•  Lightweight carbon and titanium case with openworked architecture.
•  Natural lapis lazuli chronograph counters, each uniquely patterned with pyrite inclusions.
•  Delivered with interchangeable black rubber and high-performance Velcro straps.

The Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II features an open-worked dial that goes beyond traditional timekeeping by offering a view into the intricate mechanics beneath. The skeletonised design reveals selected components of the movement, creating a dynamic interplay between technical architecture and the natural beauty of the materials used on the surface.

Three chronograph counters are crafted from genuine lapis lazuli, a gemstone admired for its intense deep blue tones and distinctive golden pyrite inclusions. Each piece of lapis lazuli carries its own unique mineral composition and natural pattern, meaning that every dial possesses subtle variations and an individual character that cannot be replicated.
 

The rich blue of the stone is complemented by the surrounding forged carbon elements, creating a contrast between organic texture and advanced engineering. Yellow gold-plated hands and applied indexes filled with Super-LumiNova provide a refined visual accent while ensuring optimal readability throughout the layered, open-worked display. Despite the complexity of the construction, the chronograph layout remains precise, balanced, and intuitive, preserving clarity while showcasing the watch’s exceptional craftsmanship.

With its 45 mm case, the Defy Extreme commands a distinctive presence on the wrist, combining bold proportions with advanced material engineering. The use of forged carbon and titanium helps reduce overall weight while preserving the exceptional structural strength and resilience expected from a high-performance timepiece.
 

The forged carbon manufacturing process creates a unique marbled pattern across each case, ensuring that no two examples are exactly alike. This distinctive texture naturally complements the organic variations found within the lapis lazuli dial, creating a harmonious connection between cutting-edge technology and the individuality of natural materials.
 

The angular case architecture reflects the contemporary and uncompromising character of the Defy collection, with sharp lines and technical details that emphasise its modern aesthetic. Titanium components further enhance the watch’s durability, offering excellent resistance to corrosion while contributing to its lightweight construction. With water resistance rated to 200 metres, the Defy Extreme is designed to perform confidently across a wide range of everyday settings and sporting environments.

While the watch’s materials are a defining part of its identity, the movement inside is equally impressive. The El Primero 9004 is an automatic chronograph calibre engineered for exceptional precision, combining Zenith’s renowned mechanical expertise with advanced high-frequency technology.
 

Its innovative construction allows the chronograph to measure elapsed time to 1/100th of a second, delivering remarkable performance while maintaining the reliability expected from a sophisticated mechanical movement. The central seconds hand completes a full rotation every second, creating a striking display of the chronograph’s speed, while the power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock shows the approximately 50 minutes of energy available for timing functions.
 

Visible through the sapphire caseback, the movement reveals its intricate architecture along with Zenith’s signature star-shaped oscillating weight. Completing its credentials, the calibre is chronometer certified, reflecting the precision, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that define the Defy Extreme.

More than five decades after the introduction of the El Primero, Zenith continues to evolve its iconic chronograph platform through innovative materials, contemporary design, and advanced mechanical development. The Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II reflects this approach, combining the brand’s high-frequency chronograph expertise with forged carbon, titanium, and the natural beauty of a lapis lazuli dial.

Limited to just 25 pieces worldwide and priced at CHF 32,900, the watch offers a distinctive interpretation of the Defy collection, blending bold architecture, advanced materials, and a highly recognisable movement. Each lapis lazuli dial carries its own unique pattern, reinforcing the connection between precision engineering and natural artistry.

To learn more, please visit the official Zenith website.

•  Case Size: 45 mm
•  Thickness: 15.4 mm
•  Movement: El Primero 9004 automatic dual-escapement chronograph, Chronometer-certified
•  Power Reserve: 50 hours (timekeeping) / approximately 50 minutes (chronograph)
•  Materials: Forged carbon and titanium case, openworked dial with lapis lazuli counters, black rubber strap, black Velcro strap
•  Water Resistance: 200 metres (20 ATM)
•  Price: CHF 32,900

What movement does it use?
The watch is powered by the automatic El Primero 9004 dual-escapement calibre, capable of measuring elapsed time to 1/100th of a second.

Is it a limited edition?
Yes. The Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II is limited to only 25 pieces worldwide.

What makes this watch unique?
Its combination of a dual-escapement 1/100th-second chronograph, forged carbon and titanium construction, genuine lapis lazuli dial counters, and highly limited production makes it one of the most technically advanced and visually distinctive Swiss chronographs currently available.