The series was introduced in 2018 and quickly became extremely well-liked and sought-after among the brand's admirers.
We cannot help but start with the dial, as it is the most impressive element of this timepiece – skeletonized, executed with exceptional attention to detail, it makes a direct reference to the 2017 limited edition Zenith Defy Lab. Another of its remarkable qualities is that, unlike most similar timepieces, this one remains exceptionally legible – thanks to the large, generously luminescent hour markers, which contrast clearly with the outer ring of the case. The hands are also massive, in the shape of double swords, and the chronograph subdials are located at the classic Zenith El Primero positions. Overall, the dial manages to be interesting without appearing cluttered.
The case is the next element that draws attention – besides being a modern interpretation of the original Zenith Defy from the 1970s, it is entirely contemporary in its craftsmanship – comfortable, lightweight, crafted from a modern material, with impressive detailing and multiple facets. The thickness of a mere 14.5 mm not only contributes to its comfort but also hints at the exceptional movement hidden inside.
And of course – the case back. As with most of the brand's modern models, the effect here is impressive. In addition to providing an opportunity to admire the movement (which is a true work of art in itself), the overall architecture is excellently conceived, proportional, and finished.
The movement deserves special attention, because behind the in-house designation Zenith El Primero Calibre 9004 lies a true masterpiece of engineering and the art of horology. It is no coincidence that the series bears the name Defy 21 – this is a movement that embodies the 21st century.
The El Primero 21 is created with two separate escapements – each with its own balance spring, crafted from the patented Carbon-Matrix Carbon Nanotube material. One regulates the time and operates at the traditional El Primero frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, while the second is dedicated entirely to the chronograph and operates at an impressive 360,000 vibrations per hour. This means that when the chronograph is activated, the seconds hand makes a complete revolution of the dial in one second. The seconds are tracked via a 60-second subdial at the 6 o'clock position, and the minutes via a 30-minute register at 3 o'clock. Due to the immense energy required for this function, the chronograph can operate for up to 50 minutes, and for convenience, a power reserve indicator is provided.
The timepiece is truly impressive, and we sincerely hope it will become a worthy part of a true connoisseur's collection, because such a high-quality specimen at such a price is a rare find.
