Zenith's Latest Defy Model Gets a Complete Carbon Makeover

Zenith is taking another step forward with its DEFY collection, this time giving the sleek model a complete carbon makeover, including the first-ever full-carbon bracelet created for an automatic watch.

Coming in its usual DEFY case, the watch measures a more modern 41mm, housing an intricately skeletonized dial revealing the equally-skeletonized Elite 670 SK movement, an in-house automatic caliber operating at 4Hz and carrying a 48-hour power reserve. The entire timepiece weighs just 65 grams even when the bracelet is included, and a rubber strap version is also available for those looking to mix things up.

“Up until now, so-called carbon fiber watch bracelets have either been superficial plaques of the composite material fixed to a metal base or reserved for a handful of highly complicated watches produced in very small numbers,” the brand says. “With the DEFY Classic Carbon, Zenith brings forth an ergonomic and eye-catching solid carbon bracelet to an automatic watch, an unprecedented technical feat and edgy design statement.”

For those interested, Zenith’s DEFY Classic Carbon will be available at select Zenith boutiques and retailers as well as its online shop this month, retailing for $19,500 USD for the bracelet version and $11,600 USD for the rubber strap option.

Elsewhere in watches, Steve McQueen’s Heuer Monaco and Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona will be up for auction soon.