Watch Of The Week: The New Zenith DEFY Extreme Mirror

Watch Of The Week: The New Zenith DEFY Extreme Mirror

Adrienne Faurote
By Adrienne Faurote December 13, 2023

Things just got ultra-complicated for Zenith — Introducing the DEFY Extreme Mirror, a conceptual marvel that reimagines Zenith’s iconic 1/100th of a second chronograph as a mirroring camouflage, blending seamlessly (yet rather trippy) into its surroundings. Designed to challenge our perception of reality, this new DEFY redefines the meaning of camouflage in modern watchmaking as it can reflect all light and colors while having no distinctive color of its own.

Watch Of The Week: The New Zenith DEFY Extreme Mirror
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Zenith

Exuding an aura of mystery and fascination, the DEFY Extreme Mirror appears akin to an otherworldly UFO that has gracefully touched down on Earth. With its entirely mirror-polished metal shell, it skillfully encapsulates the very essence of its environment, all while maintaining a pristine reflection free from distortion. Despite its striking visual allure, this remarkable timepiece doesn’t intend to conceal itself; instead, it masterfully harmonizes with its surroundings by mirroring the world around it with seamless grace.

The watch’s highly angular case and integrated bracelet are meticulously crafted from stainless steel and then mirror-polished to achieve a chrome-like finish. This finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also reinforces its ability to reflect its surroundings.

Watch Of The Week: The New Zenith DEFY Extreme Mirror
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Zenith

The dial of the DEFY Extreme Mirror is a testament to Zenith’s commitment to detail and innovation, featuring a central element made of sapphire crystal with a metallic mirrored finish. This transparent yet reflective material adds depth and intrigue to the watch. The 1/100th of a second chronograph scale on the dial maintains readability with satin-brushed metallic elements, all while adhering to the all-metal theme.

Visible through the open dial and sapphire case back is the world’s fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph caliber in production. This remarkable movement boasts 1/100th of a second time measurements thanks to two independent escapements beating at an astonishing rate of 5Hz (36,000 VpH) for timekeeping and 50Hz (360,000 VpH) for the chronograph function. The star-shaped winding rotor is finished in a silvery-grey metallic tone to harmonize with the case and dial elements.

Watch Of The Week: The New Zenith DEFY Extreme Mirror
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Zenith

The watch is complete with durable black Velcro and rubber straps. These straps can be effortlessly swapped with the steel bracelet using the quick strap-change mechanism on the case’s back.

The DEFY Extreme Mirror undoubtedly challenges traditional watch design and invites wearers to contemplate the fusion of reality and perception through its innovative mirroring camouflage.