AVANT-GARDE IN THE NAME OF PRECISION
Guaranteeing precise time information for the duration of the movement’s running time is the aim of this futuristic limited edition by Zenith.
The quality of the energy provided by a spring drops over time. To overcome this inherent mechanical feature, watchmakers have designed various systems capable of providing a constant force. One of these consists of a two-piece system formed of a micro-chain coiled around a conical fusee and attached to the barrel. In practical terms, this “fusee-chain” transmission guarantees the production of homogeneous energy. This is what is used together with a tourbillon regulating organ in the impressive Defy El Primero Fusée Tourbillon.
The time information has been stripped back to the basics. As well as the hour and minute hands, only one subtle power reserve (50 hours) indicator placed between 4 and 5 o’clock completes this spacious layout. Zenith provides the 4805 SK caliber with a spectacular setting. The chain, which consists of 575 individually hand-assembled components, features a blued treatment to emphasize its presence, as well as the tourbillon located at 6 o’clock. The high-frequency manual-winding movement, vibrating at 36,000 oscillations per hour and presiding in the 44 mm case, also contributes to the style of the watch.
The brand is offering the Defy El Primero Fusée Tourbillon in two very different limited editions. One comprising 50 pieces has a technical face with the omnipresence of black carbon, while the other is even more exclusive comprising just 10 pieces made of platinum.
Price: 80,100 EUR (carbon) – 102,500 EUR (platinum) zenith.com
By Dan Diaconu