Striking in its nothingness, the Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror is a camouflage watch that fails to conceal itself. Of late the Swiss manufacture has experienced something of a resurgence, largely attributed to its ability to play within both the contemporary and retro revival categories as well as the consistent spotlighting of its El Primero movement. Sitting in the space between art and horology, Zenith’s latest release takes on a decidedly futuristic tone.
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As the name suggests, the Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror features exclusively mirrored surfaces. The aesthetic is incongruous with the rest of the Defy Extreme range — as Zenith’s most ‘rugged’ line, it’s previously been rendered in classic brushed stainless steel or hard wearing materials like carbon fibre and titanium. While the press release from the manufacture touts the timepiece as “stealthy” and “shrouded in mystery and intrigue,” it’s rather the opposite. Put simply, were the Defy Extreme Mirror to be found on someone’s wrist, it would be almost impossible to not notice it.
Defined by its angularity, both the 45mm case and bracelet are crafted from stainless steel and exclusively feature mirror polished surfaces, evoking the appearance of chrome. The mirrored effect extends beyond the case and bracelet, with the skeletonised dial topped with a mirror-finished sapphire disk that’s both reflective and translucent. Satin-brushed elements on the three subdials and outer mirror track keep things legible while adding textural interest.
Visible through the partially open dial and through the exhibition caseback is the El Primero 9004. Capable of timing events to 1/100th of a second, it’s the fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production and beats at a rate of 360,000 VpH. It has a power reserve of 50 hours, trackable via the power reserve indicator atop the tinted sapphire disk at 12 o’clock.
Keen to see your face on the dial? The Defy Extreme Mirror is priced at $39,400AUD and is available via the Zenith webstore.
Words by Henry Blake
