Introducing the Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Ultrablue

In a sea of retro, the Zenith Defy El Primero 21 feels like a breath of fresh air. Its angular looks are unapologetically futuristic, and the same goes for the movement within. It is equipped with not one, but two escapements - one keeping time (the watch, so to speak), the other measuring it (the stopwatch). The former beats at Zenith's signature -an already impressive- 5Hz or 36,000bph, whilst the latter ups the ante to a staggering 50Hz or 360,000bph.

Ever since its 2017 launch the Defy El Primero 21 has been both a big success as well as a welcome canvas for Zenith to experiment with colors, materials and textures. And this year is shaping up to be a fruitful one! We've already seen the Urban Jungle and Felipe Pantone - and now we have the brand-new Ultrablue!

With the 2021 Defy El Primero 21 Ultrablue, Zenith builds upon the template set with the 2020 Ultraviolet. A micro-blasted titanium case provides a toned-down frame which allows the electric blue details in the movement to take center stage. The color of the case is echoed in the sub-dials, whilst the blue of the movement is reflected in the strap. The resulting look is striking - instrumental yet intricate, with a well-balanced amount of color to make the watch pop. So - will you have your Defy El Primero 21 in Ultraviolet or Ultrablue?

The Zenith Defy 21 Ultrablue is available for pre-order in our eBoutique.

DEFY 21 Ultrablue

  • Reference: 97.9001.9004/81.R946
  • Key points: 1/100th of a second Chronograph movement. Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second. 1 escapement for the Watch (36,000 VpH - 5 Hz); 1 escapement for the Chronograph (360,000 VpH - 50 Hz). Chronometer certified.
  • Movement: El Primero 9004 automatic
  • Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
  • Power reserve: approx. 50 hours
  • Functions: 1/100th of a second chronograph functions. Chronograph power-reserve indication at 12 o'clock. Hours and minutes in the centre. Small seconds at 9 o'clock, Central chronograph hand, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, 60-second counter at 6 o'clock
  • Finishes: Blue colored main plate on movement. Special blue colored oscillating weight with satined finishings
  • Material: Microblasted titanium
  • Water resistance: 10 ATM
  • Dial: Openworked with grey subdials
  • Hour markers: : Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Superluminova SLN C1
  • Hands: : Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Superluminova SLN C1
  • Bracelet & Buckle: : Black rubber with ultrablue “cordura effect”. Microblasted titanium double folding clasp.