On the Italian island of Sardinia, the second season of Extreme E began last weekend. The first part of the doubleheader Island X Prix is underway, and alongside it, Zenith unveiled the second edition of their special series of watches crafted for the electric rally racing championship. Zenith also proudly continues its role as the event’s Official Timekeeper and Founding Partner.
This latest creation from the Swiss brand, the DEFY Extreme E “Island X Prix,” references elements from the second season of the championship, such as the back-to-back races’ official colour of vivid orange.
The 45mm watch case is made from carbon fibre and micro-blasted titanium, with the crown and chronograph pushers made from carbon fibre as well. The dial is a multi-layered open-worked dial that has tinted sapphire crystal elements. As a reference to the official race colour, the dial also has orange accents, such as the inscriptions on the sub-counters and the chronograph readings on the outer part of the dial.
Zenith has given the DEFY Extreme E “Island X Prix” edition the latest El Primero 9004 automatic movement. While it can be partially seen on the dial side, the case back offers a full view of its beautiful craftsmanship, such as the black-coloured main plate and the special black-coloured oscillating weight with satin finishings.
WatchAdvice’s Thoughts:
While the design of this latest DEFY Extreme E model remains unchanged from the first season model, the aesthetics of this latest watch certainly sets it apart. The first model had a variety of colours used on the dial, although the carbon fibre case remains the same on both timepieces.
The use of orange throughout the watch does make it more appealing to enthusiasts that prefer to keep it a bit more balanced, especially with how busy the dial is. However, the watch strap is different on this new “Island X Prix” model. Keeping in theme with the core message of sustainability at the Extreme E events, Zenith has given this DEFY Extreme E model a rubber/velcro strap that is infused with materials of recycled Continental CrossContact tires there were used in the first season’s races.
This velcro strap has a black rubber central element which is surrounded by an orange Cordura-effect rubber inlay. While the black central element transitions nicely from the case, the strap’s orange parts match with the timepiece’s other orange elements.
Unfortunately, as sporty and stunning as this timepiece is, the drawback is that it’s only limited to 20 pieces worldwide. The watch will be available in Zenith online and physical boutiques worldwide.
Design:
- Case: 45 mm
- Case Material: Carbon and microblasted titanium
- Dial: Tinted sapphire with three black-coloured counters
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal, front and back
- Water resistance: 200 meters
- Bracelet: Orange Velcro bracelet made with parts of Continental recycled tires. Also comes with a black Velcro strap and black rubber strap.
Movement:
- El Primero 9004 Automatic
- Frequency: 5Hz (36, 000 VpH)
- Power reserve: 50 hours
- Jewels: 53
