Zenith DEFY Extreme Mirror: The Invisible Chronograph That Reflects Its Environment
An intriguing new timepiece from Zenith seemingly bends reality—introducing the DEFY Extreme Mirror. Shrouded in mystery, this conceptual chronograph visually blends into its surroundings like a stealth aircraft thanks to an ingenious mirrored finish.
At first glance, the DEFY Extreme Mirror looks like a shard of gleaming metal that reflects the entire landscape around it. Its angular case and integrated bracelet are crafted from stainless steel before being immaculately mirror-polished to achieve a chrome-like appearance. The result is a watch that paradoxically stands out yet seems to disappear. The mirrored surface gives the impression of a cloaking device from science fiction, masking the watch’s presence by reflecting its surroundings.
And it's not just the case that receives this treatment. The open multi-layered dial features a central sapphire crystal element with a mirrored metallic finish, allowing light to permeate while reflecting the surroundings. Satin-brushed metallic elements on the dial provide contrast and ensure the chronograph scales remain legible while complementing the reflective aesthetic.
Beneath the flashy mirrored exterior lies the real power of this timepiece—Zenith's renowned El Primero 9004 movement, widely considered among the most advanced chronograph calibers ever created. It's the world's fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph in production, enabling precision time measurement to 1/100th of a second. This is achieved thanks to two independent escapements oscillating at 36,000 VpH and 360,000 VpH respectively.
The El Primero 9004 is on full display through the sapphire crystal caseback. It reveals the star-shaped rotor finished in a silvery-grey tone matching the monochromatic color scheme of the case and dial. The finely finished movement bridges and decorated parts underscore the watch's precision mechanics.