Zenith fakke Releases Defy Extreme Chroma: A 1/100th-Sec Rainbow Chronograph
Zenith has released two boldly innovative Defy Extreme chronographs. Originally launched in 2021, this timepiece combines high-frequency chronograph technology with a daring design, offering endless possibilities for creative exploration and variation.
The Defy Extreme Chroma comes in two versions—black (reference number 97.9113.9004/33.I200) and white (reference number 95.9114.9004/69.I203)—each limited to 100 pieces. Combining titanium and ceramic, it features a unique color spectrum that creates a subtle rainbow effect.
Its angular 45mm x 15.4mm case is crafted from micro-blasted or brushed titanium, while the dodecagonal bezel, pusher guards, and crown are made of black micro-blasted titanium or white ceramic. The skillful combination of materials and finishes highlights the watch’s strong lines.
This timepiece houses the unique El Primero 9004 automatic movement, whose bridges feature a PVD coating that displays a variety of colors.
Through the openworked black or white dial, the movement’s workings are revealed, with the hour markers and indices perfectly echoing the movement’s colors, creating a smooth gradient effect. Each movement boasts its own unique color scheme.
This vibrant color extends to the tips of the auxiliary dial hands—the chronograph hours and minutes at 9 and 3 o’clock, the chronograph power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock, and the small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. https://www.grand-watch.co
The case back continues the colorful theme, featuring Zenith’s signature star rotor in a striking blue on the black version and a bright green on the white version.
The El Primero 9004 is capable of measuring elapsed time with an accuracy of 1/100th of a second—a feat achieved through two independent escapement systems, each with its own mainspring barrel and regulator.
The first movement vibrates at 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) to ensure precise timekeeping; the second movement operates at 50 Hz (360,000 vibrations per hour) to drive the chronograph function.
The central chronograph seconds hand completes one revolution around the dial every second, with readings accurate to one-hundredth of a second.
The Chroma version features a quick-change strap system operated via buttons on the case back and offers three strap options: a textured rubber strap, a titanium bracelet, and a Velcro strap.
