Zenith DEFY Extreme Jungle

Zenith has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and design, crafting timepieces that capture the spirit of adventure and precision. Their latest creation, the DEFY Extreme Jungle, is a testament to this legacy, a watch that seamlessly blends ruggedness and sophistication, inspired by the untamed beauty of the world's most diverse ecosystems.



Zenith's story began in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, where a young watchmaker named Georges Favre-Jacot had a vision to create movements entirely under one roof, a revolutionary concept at the time. This innovative approach led to the birth of a manufacture that would become synonymous with high-quality, reliable timepieces. The name "Zenith" was adopted in 1911, symbolizing the brand's pursuit of celestial heights in watchmaking. Over the decades, Zenith has achieved numerous milestones, including the development of the legendary El Primero movement in 1969, the world's first automatic chronograph caliber capable of measuring time to 1/10th of a second. This groundbreaking movement solidified Zenith's position as a pioneer in the industry.



The DEFY collection, first introduced in the 1960s, has been a platform for Zenith to showcase its avant-garde approach to watch design. Characterized by bold aesthetics and robust construction, DEFY watches are built for those who seek adventure and embrace challenges. The DEFY Extreme line, launched in 2021, takes this concept to new heights, with timepieces engineered to withstand the most demanding environments. These watches are not merely accessories but instruments designed for exploration and discovery.



The DEFY Extreme Jungle, limited to just 50 pieces, is the third and final chapter in Zenith's exploration of extreme environments, following the Desert and Glacier editions. This timepiece draws inspiration from the lush rainforests, where life thrives amidst dense foliage and hidden dangers. The watch's design captures the essence of this vibrant ecosystem, with a color palette that evokes the rich hues of the jungle.



Crafted from brushed titanium, the DEFY Extreme Jungle's 45mm case exudes a sense of strength and durability. The use of titanium, a lightweight yet robust material, ensures that the watch can withstand the rigors of exploration without compromising comfort. The case's angular lines and faceted bezel add a contemporary edge, while the prominent pushers hint at the watch's high-performance chronograph function.



One of the most striking features of the DEFY Extreme Jungle is the incorporation of Tiger's Eye gemstone into the bezel and pusher protectors. This captivating stone, with its golden to brown striations and shimmering iridescence, is reminiscent of a tiger's watchful gaze, a symbol of power and resilience. Each watch is unique due to the natural variations in the stone, making it a truly personal and distinctive timepiece.



The open-worked dial provides a glimpse into the intricate mechanics of the El Primero 9004 caliber, the heart of the DEFY Extreme Jungle. This high-frequency chronograph movement is a marvel of engineering, capable of measuring time to an astonishing 1/100th of a second. The dial's green tint further enhances the jungle theme, while the tiger-colored counters add a touch of vibrancy. The hands and hour markers are coated with beige Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions.



At the heart of this beast lies the El Primero 9004 automatic caliber, a direct descendant of Zenith's legendary El Primero movement, the world's first automatic chronograph. This high-frequency movement, visible through both the dial and the exhibition case back, is a testament to Zenith's relentless pursuit of precision. Beating at an astonishing 360,000 vibrations per hour (50Hz), the El Primero 9004 allows the DEFY Extreme Jungle to measure time to 1/100th of a second, a feat unmatched by most mechanical chronographs.



To achieve this remarkable accuracy, Zenith employs two independent regulating organs and escapements. One operates at 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) for timekeeping, while the other, dedicated to the chronograph function, operates at a blistering 50Hz. This dual-frequency approach ensures unparalleled precision without compromising the watch's overall timekeeping performance.



The chronograph mechanism itself is a marvel of engineering. The central chronograph hand makes a full rotation every second, allowing for precise readings of the 1/100th of a second increments. This lightning-fast movement of the hand is a spectacle to behold, a visual representation of the watch's exceptional capabilities. In addition to the central chronograph hand, the DEFY Extreme Jungle features a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and a 60-second counter at 6 o'clock, providing a comprehensive suite of timekeeping functions.



The movement's intricate components are finished with meticulous attention to detail. The mainplate is adorned with a khaki green coating, echoing the jungle theme, while the oscillating weight is satin-brushed in the same hue. These subtle touches add a touch of personality to the watch's inner workings, showcasing Zenith's commitment to both technical excellence and aesthetic refinement.



Beyond its impressive movement, the DEFY Extreme Jungle boasts a range of features designed to enhance its functionality and versatility. The 45mm titanium case, with its angular lines and robust construction, provides a comfortable fit on the wrist while ensuring durability in demanding environments. The large crown and pushers are easy to grip and operate, even when wearing gloves.



The DEFY Extreme Jungle also features an ingenious interchangeable strap system. With the simple push of a button on the back of the case, the wearer can effortlessly switch between three different straps: a titanium bracelet for a sleek and sporty look, a khaki green rubber strap for enhanced comfort and durability, and a black Velcro strap for a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic. This adaptability allows the DEFY Extreme Jungle to seamlessly transition from the urban jungle to the wilderness, catering to a variety of lifestyles and preferences.



The watch's dial is a masterpiece of design and functionality. The open-worked construction provides a captivating view of the El Primero 9004 caliber, while the green tint adds a subtle touch of color that complements the jungle theme. The tiger-colored counters, reminiscent of a tiger's stripes, add a touch of vibrancy to the dial. The hands and hour markers are coated with beige Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions.



Water resistance is a crucial consideration for any adventure-ready timepiece, and the DEFY Extreme Jungle excels in this regard. With a water resistance rating of 20 ATM (200 meters), this watch can withstand the pressures of deep dives and other aquatic activities. Whether you're exploring the depths of the ocean or navigating a torrential downpour, the DEFY Extreme Jungle will keep ticking with unwavering precision.



The DEFY Extreme Jungle is more than just a watch; it's a statement piece that embodies the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of excellence. Its bold design, innovative movement, and versatile features make it a perfect companion for those who dare to explore the world's most challenging environments. With a retail price of $26,900, the DEFY Extreme Jungle is an investment in a timepiece that will not only stand the test of time but also serve as a reminder of your own adventurous spirit.



Case: 45mm brushed titanium case with a dodecagonal bezel and pusher protectors made of Tiger's Eye. Water resistance up to 20 ATM.

Movement: El Primero 9004 automatic caliber, beating at 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) with a power reserve of 50 hours. Features a 1/100th of a second chronograph function with two independent regulating organs and escapements.

Dial: Open sapphire dial tinted in green with tiger-colored applied counters and beige luminescent markers and hands.

Strap: Interchangeable strap system with three options: titanium bracelet, khaki green rubber strap, and black Velcro strap.

Price: $26,900

Notes: Limited edition of 50 pieces. Each watch is unique due to the natural variations in the Tiger's Eye gemstone.