If all the colors that our eyes can perceive are to be considered as frequencies of visible light, then violet has the highest frequency of them all, beyond which is invisible ultraviolet light. It was only natural to pair this intense, energetic color with the highest-frequency chronograph in regular production, the Zenith Defy 21. In past centuries, violet was coveted as the most sought-after color dye for garments, the production of which was a closely held secret by certain civilizations such as the Phoenicians. Its rarity and compelling beauty made it the stuff of royalty. Today, violet tones portray a sense of daring, confidence, and whimsy, from sports cars to bespoke tailoring. Yet in the world of watchmaking, violet remains a rarity.
A world-first in watchmaking, Zenith has treated an automatic chronograph movement in the regal, opulent tones of violet. Not just any chronograph, Zenith chose its revolutionary 1/100th of a second El Primero 21 chronograph calibre beating at an incredible frequency of 50Hz as the canvas for this visually and mechanically striking creation. The Zenith Defy 21 Ultraviolet ref. 97.9001.9004/80.R922 features a 44 mm case in micro-blasted titanium and a violet fabric effect strap.
Allowing the purple-treated bridges of the movement to truly stand out while providing a more striking contrast, the faceted 44 mm case with its matte sandblasted finish, brings out the darker metallic nuances of titanium creating a perfect symphony along with the open-worked dial. Complementing the tones of the open movement, which can shift from warm violet to cool purple tones, the black rubber strap features a violet insert that mimics the look of woven textile.
The calibre El Primero 9004 automatic movement powering this watch features a unique one escapement for the watch beating at a frequency of 36,000 vph and an escapement for the chronograph beating 10 times faster at 360,000 vph. The movement features a special linear power reserve indicator and provides a power reserve of 50 hours.
Visible through the open dial, which features three grey chronograph registers and a grey flange ring, the vibrant violet movement is accentuated by the Defy 21’s uniquely avant-garde movement conception and design with open, angular bridges. A white-tipped central 1/100th of a second chronograph hand makes a complete revolution above the dial in one second. Besides the Defy 21 El Primero 50th Anniversary edition —which was only available as a box-set with two other watches—, the Defy 21 Ultraviolet is the first stand-alone Defy 21 with an open dial paired with closed chronograph counters.
Sticker Price CHF 13,400 Swiss Francs —$14,000 USD. For more info on Zenith click here.
