A world-first in watchmaking, Zenith made the world’s first high-frequency chronograph, the El Primero. So named for its primacy, the world’s first high-frequency chronograph is joined today in visual manifestation: arguing that all colours we can perceive are frequencies of visible light, then violet, the highest frequency of them all, beyond which is invisible ultraviolet light and thus not in contention in terms of graphic design), is finally paired with the highest frequency chronograph in serial production, the Zenith Defy 21.

New Zenith Defy 21 ultraviolet: High-frequency chronograph with Highest frequency colour

Zenith chose its revolutionary 1/100thof a second El Primero Defy 21 chronograph calibre beating at an incredible frequency of 50Hz as the canvas for this visually and mechanically striking creation. Visible through the open dial, the new Zenith Defy 21 ultraviolet chronograph features three grey chronograph registers and a grey flange ring, accented throughout with pops of ultraviolet.

The El Primero 9004 automatic with two dedicated escapements, one for basic timekeeping operating at 36,000 VpH – 5 Hz, and the other for precision chronograph timekeeping operates at 360,000 VpH – 50 Hz finds itself more than a match for its visual vibrance: accentuated by the DEFY 21’s uniquely avant-garde movement conception and design with open, angular bridges.

A white-tipped central 1/100th of a second El Primero Defy 21 chronograph hand makes a complete revolution above the dial in one second. The Zenith Defy 21 Ultraviolet joins a select group of limited Defy 21 l Primero 50th Anniversary edition (which were only available as a box-set with two other watches) with an open dial paired with closed chronograph counters.

Pretty in Pink: Zenith Defy 21 Pink Edition

In association with Pink Ribbon Switzerland, Zenith is supporting a cause that affects countless women around the world. For the first time in the mechanically sophisticated Zenith Defy 21 chronograph, Zenith has created for the first time ever, an astonishingly pink PVD treated movement.

With 288 white diamonds of varying sizes perfectly set into the case, the rose gold case of the Zenith Defy 21 Pink Edition stands out not just for its brilliant pink countenance but also for its sharp facets and the unmistakable rose gold bezel adding another layer of vivid sparkle with 44 scintillating baguette-cut pink sapphire stones. Like the new Zenith Defy 21 ultraviolet, the latest Defy 21 Pink Edition echoes the dashing tones of the watch’s exterior, the open black and golden dial reveals the striking metallic pink treated movement, which extends from the dial side right through to the star-shaped oscillating rotor on the back.

Recognising the need to spread positivity and hope to countless women around the world who are battling breast cancer, the latest Zenith Defy 21 Pink Edition gives Pink Ribbon Switzerland with the juxtaposition of robust, high-performance horology and the enduring symbology of support for those affected by the indiscriminate disease. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the new Zenith Defy 21 Pink Edition will be donated to Pink Ribbon Switzerland.

Zenith Defy 21 Ultraviolet and Defy 21 Pink Edition Price & Specs