For those who seek adventure beneath the waves and desire a timepiece that performs in the most demanding conditions, the Zenith Defy Extreme Diver Watch (£10,200) stands as a beacon of engineering excellence. The latest addition to the DEFY collection, the Extreme Diver builds upon the legacy of Zenith’s purpose-built watches dating back to 1969. With its striking design, angular case, and robust functionality, the DEFY Extreme Diver is the embodiment of both form and function, meticulously crafted to withstand the challenges of deep-water exploration.
The DEFY Extreme Diver maintains the DEFY line’s signature bold aesthetic while introducing all the necessary elements of a diver’s watch, making it an ideal companion for underwater exploration. The 42.5mm angular case is crafted from titanium, a material celebrated for its impressive weight-to-strength ratio and its natural resistance to corrosion from seawater. This high-performance case is complemented by a helium escape valve, allowing the watch to withstand the pressure of saturation diving. A fixed dodecagonal bezel in black ceramic sits above the titanium case, featuring a unidirectional rotating bezel with grooved edges for improved grip—perfect for underwater use even while wearing gloves. The bezel is filled with Super-LumiNova for easy readability in low-light underwater conditions.
One of the standout features of the DEFY Extreme Diver is its oversized screw-down crown, which is flanked by titanium crown guards to ensure maximum protection. This watch is rated to an impressive 600 meters (60 ATM) of water resistance—equivalent to 1,969 feet, a subtle homage to the year the DEFY line first debuted. Meeting ISO 6245 standards for diver’s watches, as well as ISO 764 for paramagnetism and ISO 1413 for shock resistance, the DEFY Extreme Diver is built to take on the harshest environments.
The dial of the DEFY Extreme Diver is a striking feature, featuring a geometric pattern of engraved four-pointed stars—a symbol that first appeared on the DEFY models in 1969. The dial’s silvery-white tone, complete with a sunburst finish, adds depth and contrast, with rays emanating from the iconic Zenith star at 12 o’clock. Oversized hands and applied hour markers, treated with three different pigments of “X1” grade Super-LumiNova (blue, green, and yellow), ensure exceptional readability, even in dim underwater conditions. Bright orange accents pay tribute to historical DEFY diver models, where this colour was believed to provide the best legibility underwater.
Powering the DEFY Extreme Diver is the El Primero 3620-SC automatic high-frequency manufacture calibre, equipped with a 60-hour power reserve. The movement features a paramagnetic escapement with key components in non-metallic silicon, providing superior performance. Unlike many diver’s watches, the DEFY Extreme Diver boasts a sapphire display back, offering a view of the sophisticated movement at work—a testament to Zenith’s dedication to both precision and transparency.
Completing the watch is a titanium three-link bracelet, alongside two additional straps for various use cases. The first is a black FKM rubber strap with a Cordura-effect texture and side vents to allow water to flow through. For more specialized diving needs, the DEFY Extreme Diver includes an extra-long strap made from recycled fishing nets, designed to be worn over a wetsuit. This strap features specific end-pieces that allow it to pass through and under the case, ensuring a secure fit during underwater adventures. The Zenith Defy Extreme Diver is more than just a diver’s watch—it’s a testament to the brand’s legacy of pushing the limits of both craftsmanship and functionality. With a striking design, unmatched performance, and a focus on sustainability, the DEFY Extreme Diver is the ultimate timepiece for those who demand the best in their adventures, both above and below the surface.
