USM Haller modular system and ZENITH’s groundbreaking El Primero chronograph. The collection reimagines the original ZENITH DEFY as a chronograph, blending horological mastery with architectural design in a testament to shared values: precision, purposeful aesthetics, and a timeless vision of modernity.
A Shared Heritage, A New Creation
To bring this unique collaboration to life, ZENITH and USM explored the bold spirit of the 1960s, a pivotal era for both brands. They asked, “What might these two icons of Swiss craftsmanship have created together back then?”. The result is the new DEFY Chronograph USM, a piece of “imagined heritage” that seamlessly channels the aesthetic and cultural codes of that era.
The 1969 ZENITH DEFY served as the perfect starting point, with its sharp, octagonal case and faceted contours echoing the geometric design language of USM Haller. The new DEFY Chronograph USM is a fusion of these two design philosophies, presenting a striking interplay of geometry and finish that reflects their shared values.
A Design Masterpiece with a Modern Twist
Housed in a compact 37.3 mm stainless steel case, the DEFY Chronograph USM features an octagonal shape and 14-sided bezel, staying true to the original DEFY's bold geometry. It is paired with the iconic “ladder” bracelet, which was originally designed for ZENITH in 1969.
The watch dial, with its applied square hour markers, comes in four vibrant USM signature colors: USM Green, USM Pure Orange, USM Golden Yellow, and USM Gentian Blue. A subtle yet playful detail is the chronograph second hand, which is tipped with a miniature USM Haller ball joint that glows in the dark. When activated, it reveals a hidden ZENITH star. Each dial color is part of a limited edition of 60 pieces.
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At the heart of the DEFY Chronograph USM is the legendary El Primero 400 calibre, a direct descendant of the world’s first high-frequency automatic chronograph introduced by ZENITH in 1969. With its 5Hz high-frequency escapement, the movement continues to set the standard for precision chronometry. The transparent sapphire case-back reveals the movement's rotor, adorned with an openworked ZENITH star and both the ZENITH and USM logos, a testament to the harmony between horological and architectural precision.
Benoit de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH, stated that the partnership "unites the excellence of Swiss design and horology," while Alexander Schärer, CEO of USM, noted that both companies share a "devotion to timeless quality, refined aesthetics, and purposeful functionality”.
Each watch is available individually or as a set, and includes exclusive USM Modular furniture and a unique watch box. The collection is available at ZENITH's physical and online boutiques, and through authorized retailers worldwide.
