As the second installment of their collaboration, the new Defy Extreme Carl Cox stands apart from the typical Extreme series with its subtle styling, featuring an old-school two-tone case in sandblasted steel and yellow gold. Naturally, the dial is replete with details that pay homage to Mr. Cox’s DJ background.

Steel and gold

As a result, the standard Extreme embraces a thoroughly contemporary design, often adopting an all-black style. In contrast, the Defy Extreme Carl Cox takes an unusually subtle approach, with a sand-blasted steel case and bracelet. The addition of the gold bezel introduces a touch of retro luxury to the watch. For those seeking a Defy Extreme case with a twist, this limited edition is a good choice.

DJ’s style

On the topic of phonographs, the triple registers are designed to resemble a vinyl record, with a concentric guilloche pattern and hollowed-out center. Notably, the register at nine o’clock subtly incorporates Carl Cox’s logo without disrupting the overall dial balance while conserving space. 

One last music-related detail is the power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock. It’s a power reserve indicator for the chronograph functions, which is independent of time-telling. The scale has been printed with “on” and “off” like a machine, once again paying homage to Mr. Cox’s background.

Although not directly related to music, the gold-plated hands and markers on the dial significantly enhance its visual appearance. They create a strong contrast with the black dial and introduce an additional layer of color to the watch that would have otherwise appeared too austere with just silver and black.

50 Hz chronograph

The chronograph relies on a separate barrel for power, as well as a distinct gear train and escapement. Its 50 Hz frequency allows the chronograph seconds hand to beat 100 times per second, enabling it to precisely track intervals as small as 1/100th of a second (assuming one can react that quickly while operating the chronograph). This 50 Hz movement makes it a true 1/100th seconds chronograph, a feat Zenith proudly displays with a “lightning” seconds hand that completes a full rotation around the dial every second when the chronograph is in operation.

Zenith Defy Extreme Carl Cox Ref. 06.9100.9004/21.I001 Specs and Price