Zenith Puts Ancient Stone Inside a Carbon Chronograph

The deep matte texture of forged carbon meets the vivid blue of lapis lazuli. In the new DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II from Zenith, two materials from opposite ends of existence are brought together. One is engineered for performance and resistance. The other is natural, almost cosmic, formed over millennia.

This is the second interpretation of the concept, following an earlier edition in steel and yellow gold. Limited to just 25 pieces, this version takes a darker, more technical approach. The 45mm case combines forged carbon and titanium, materials chosen for their lightweight properties and structural integrity. Their surfaces absorb light, giving the watch a stealth-like presence on the wrist and reinforcing the sharp geometry of the DEFY Extreme architecture.

Precision and Geology

Set within the openworked dial, counters made from lapis lazuli introduce color and depth. The stone’s natural pyrite inclusions create subtle golden reflections that catch the light at different angles. This raw, unpredictable element sits within a machine built for uncompromising performance.

Legibility is maintained by yellow gold-plated applied indexes and hands, both coated with Super-LumiNova. The display is organized with small seconds at 9 o'clock, a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, a 60-second counter at 6 o'clock, and a power reserve indicator for the chronograph at 12 o'clock.

A Dual Escapement

At the heart of the watch is the El Primero 9004 calibre. The movement is built around two independent escapements. One operates at 5 Hz, or 36,000 VpH, for standard timekeeping. A second, separate escapement beats at an extreme 50 Hz, or 360,000 VpH, dedicated entirely to the chronograph function.

This dual architecture allows the chronograph to measure elapsed time to 1/100th of a second. The central chronograph hand makes a full rotation of the dial every second, a kinetic display that makes the measurement both visible and instinctively readable. The timekeeping module maintains a 50-hour power reserve, while the chronograph can run for 50 minutes.

The watch is delivered with two strap options, a black rubber strap and a black high-performance Velcro strap, which can be swapped using an interchangeable system integrated into the case back. The DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli II is available now through Zenith boutiques, its website, and authorized retailers.

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