ABSOLUTE TRANSPARENCY
The star-logoed manufacture proposes a limited series of two of its flagship pieces imagined around a surprising translucent case. Their owners are also invited to defy gravity! Explanations.
How can we not be transfixed by these mechanical ballets majestically choreographed by Zenith? By choosing two of its most exquisite contemporary creations for these 46 mm-diameter cases entirely crafted in sapphire, the brand from Le Locle underscores its ability to enthrall the fine watchmaking world. The original Defy Zero G model whisked us off into a sphere where architecture reigned. Its somewhat pared-down upgrade evokes space. As such, its totally-skeletonized hand-wound El Primero 8812 S movement and its Gravity Control module nestling at 6 o’clock are combined with subdials fashioned in meteorite and aventurine. In this interstellar decor, we discover the off-centered hour and minute disc, the small seconds at 10 o’clock and the power reserve indicator at 2 o’clock.
The Defy 21 Double Tourbillon variation, on the other hand, center stages its caliber equipped with a duo of regulating devices. As a reminder, the one set at 10 o’clock is paired with the chronograph measuring and displaying a 100th of a second. This tourbillon, beating at a frequency of 50 Hz (360,000 vibrations an hour) with its carriage that makes a full rotation every five seconds, is the fastest in the world. It animates the central direct-drive at the incredible speed of a tour of the dial every second. The second tourbillon positioned at 8 o’clock and set at 5 Hz features a carriage that makes a full turn every minute. Its role is to regulate the watch’s time data.
In addition to this incomparable visual experience, the manufacture offers lucky owners a sensorial experience. They will all have the opportunity to enjoy a parabolic flight and defy zero gravity.
Price: CHF160,000 (Defy Zero G) – CHF180,000 (Defy 21 Double Tourbillon) zenith.com
By Dan Diaconu