Zenith and USM Return With a Mirrored DEFY Chronograph for TimeForArt
Showcasing a miniature USM ball joint on the seconds hand, the timepiece is powered by the legendary high-frequency El Primero 400 movement.
Summary
ZENITH and USM reunite for a one-off DEFY Chronograph created for TimeForArt.
A mirror-polished dial combines all four signature USM colors.
The watch includes a bespoke mirrored USM Haller sideboard and heads to Phillips.
Following their initial collaboration in 2025, Zenith and USM have reunited to create a one-of-a-kind timepiece exclusively for TimeForArt, a benefit auction organized by the Swiss Institute. The new DEFY Chronograph USM – TimeForArt Unique Piece builds upon the architectural design of their first collaboration, which reimagined the angular 1969 DEFY, by introducing a striking, fully mirror-polished dial. This reflective surface constantly interacts with its environment, allowing the watch to change appearance based on light, movement and surrounding architecture.
Set against the mirrored surface are three overlapping azuré chronograph counters accented with USM Golden Yellow, Pure Orange, Green and Gentian Blue, bringing all four signature USM colors together on a single dial for the first time. The rest of the watch retains the compact proportions and angular architecture established by the earlier collaboration, including a 37mm stainless-steel case, octagonal profile, 14-sided bezel and stainless-steel “ladder” bracelet.
A miniature representation of USM Haller’s signature ball joint appears at the tip of the Gentian Blue chronograph seconds hand, creating a subtle connection between the watch and the furniture system. Powering it is ZENITH’s automatic El Primero 400 column-wheel chronograph calibre, operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour and delivering a 55-hour power reserve.
Elevating the concept beyond a simple watch release, USM has designed a one-of-a-kind mirrored Haller sideboard specifically to accompany the timepiece. Conceived as a functional display for watch collectors, the furniture piece features a glass top that showcases a primary collection layer, while a lockable drawer below offers additional storage, bringing modular design language into the world of horology.
The DEFY Chronograph USM – TimeForArt Unique Piece will be auctioned at Phillips New York on December 5, 2026, at 3 p.m. EST. Because it is a unique piece produced exclusively for auction, there is no official retail price; however, 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Swiss Institute’s exhibitions, education initiatives, and community engagement programs.
