Unique Aspects of Zenith and USM Collaboration, Highlighted by 5 Distinct Design Features

Zenith and USM Unveil Limited Edition Defy Chronograph USM

Zenith, a renowned name in Swiss watchmaking, has partnered with USM, a famed Swiss furniture manufacturer, to create a unique collaboration that bridges the gap between modular furniture and high watchmaking. The result is the limited edition Zenith Defy Chronograph USM.

The Defy Chronograph USM boasts an octagonal 37.3-mm stainless steel case with a 14-sided bezel, drawing on the geometric sharpness of the historic Defy. The watch is completed by the "Ladder" bracelet, a design classic developed by Gay Frères for Zenith in 1969, and pump-style chronograph pushers for a vintage charm.

Powering the Defy Chronograph USM is the El Primero 400 mechanism, a modified version of the 3019 PHC from 1969. The movement's open back reveals the decorated oscillating weight, which bears both the Zenith star logo and the USM emblem. The El Primero 400 offers 36,000 semi-oscillations per hour and a 55-hour power reserve, making it one of the most precise movements on the market.

The Defy Chronograph USM is available with various dial colours, each limited to 60 pieces worldwide. Each edition comes in a custom-made USM Haller watch box, serving as storage and also functioning as an independent design object, equipped with three compartments that can be extended and reconfigured.

Zenith was shaped by the legendary El-Primero movement, the first automatic high-frequency chronograph, in 1969. USM, on the other hand, was shaped by the USM Haller System, a modular furniture concept, born in 1965. This collaboration for the limited edition of the Zenith Defy Chronograph USM is a harmonious blend of Zenith's watchmaking expertise and USM's design heritage.

The Defy Chronograph USM retails for 12,000 euros per model and is available through selected Zenith boutiques and authorized retailers, including the color-matched USM Haller box. This partnership is significant as both brands are synonyms for Swiss design and craftsmanship.

In a separate collaboration, H. Moser & Cie. has given the Endeavour Perpetual Calendar a "Smoked Salmon" makeover, but that is a story for another day. The Zenith Defy Chronograph USM is a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared pursuit of excellence in design and craftsmanship.