If you like stealthy watches that fly under the radar, the Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Carbon is the perfect choice. First released in 2017, the 1/100th of a second chronograph mechanism, continues to prove why Zenith is one of the leaders and pioneers in making reliable and very accurate chronographs. The Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Carbon is one of those watches that ticks al the boxes if you are looking for a underrated, all black, sporty in-house chronograph under $20K USD. After the revival of the Defy line with a case design more in line with the historical Defy watches from the sixties and seventies, the Defy collection brings a breath of fresh air to a brand that has revolved around the El Primero look for most of his modern history since 1969. While the case of the Defy might not be everyone’s cup of tea, here at WCL we do like it. With its angled lugs and modern design somewhat ‘Hublotesque’ looking, the Defy is a very sporty and sophisticated looking Zenith, the strays away from the classic and more elegant look of the El Primero Chronomaster or Elite collections.

Things to Know About the Watch

The Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Carbon features a carbon case measuring 44 mm in diameter and an openworked dial with black and grey elements. The watch is delivered on a black calf rubberized strap with with titanium double folding clasp with carbon. The layout of the dial makes the watch very stealthy and extremely sporty. The watch features a central chronograph hand that makes one turn each second —1/100th of a second—, a 30-minute chrono counter at 3 o'clock, a 60-second counter at 6 o'clock and a power-reserve indication at 12 o'clock. The red accents against the black and grey color scheme add just the right amount of color to this great looking timepiece.

The Movement

The Zenith Defy El Primero 21 is powered by the El Primero 9004 automatic calibre. This movement composed of 293 features a very impressive 1/100th of a second chronograph mechanism. While beating at a frequency of 36,000 vph, the movement provides a power reserve of 50 hours when fully wound.

On the Wrist & Price

On the wrist, the new Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Carbon wears true to its size but extremely light due to its case construction. A very stealthy looking watch that capitalizes on the prowess and long expertise of the brand making exceptional chronographs since 1969. Modern, cool and sporty are some of the things that come to mind when perusing this new watch. If you like carbon watches, this watch is a perfect timepiece that won’t break the bank.

Sticker Price CHF 18,900 —approximately $19,000 USD. For more info on Zenith click here.