Skip to content
by Zenith

Zenith Defy 21 Chroma Men's watch 49.9010.9004/01.R947

-3%
Our price: $14,340.00 Retail price: $14,800.00

Thanks for contacting us! We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Select Title
Add to wishlist

The Zenith Defy 21 Chroma 49.9010.9004/01.R947 is a limited edition of only 200 pieces that turns Zenith's 1/100th-of-a-second chronograph into a full-spectrum rainbow. Presented during LVMH Watch Week 2022, it pairs a matte white ceramic case with an openworked dial and rainbow-coloured bridges, making it one of the most distinctive modern Zenith chronographs.

Key Specifications

  • Reference: 49.9010.9004/01.R947
  • Collection: Defy 21
  • Limited edition: 200 pieces
  • Case: 44mm matte white ceramic
  • Dial: White openworked dial with rainbow-varnished markers and hands
  • Movement: El Primero 9004 automatic, 1/100th second chronograph, certified chronometer
  • Frequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz) for the time, 360,000 vph (50 Hz) for the chronograph
  • Power reserve: Minimum 50 hours
  • Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, 1/100th second chronograph, 30-minute and 60-second counters, chronograph power reserve indicator
  • Case back: Sapphire crystal display back
  • Water resistance: 100m / 10 ATM
  • Strap: White Cordura-effect rubber with rainbow stitching, titanium triple folding clasp

The Defy 21 and the 1/100th of a Second

Zenith's Defy name goes back to early 20th-century watches labelled "Défi", French for "challenge". In 2017 the brand launched the Defy El Primero 21, built around a movement with two separate escapements: one for the time and one for the chronograph. The chronograph side runs at 50 Hz, so the central hand makes one full turn every second and can measure time to 1/100th of a second.

Design: A Rainbow Across a White Ceramic Case

The Chroma is inspired by light refracted across the visible spectrum. Starting with red at 12 o'clock, the colours move clockwise through orange, yellow, green, blue, violet and pink. That gradient appears on the faceted, rhodium-plated hour markers, the 1/100th-second scale, the tips of the counter hands, the strap stitching and even the rubber grip on the crown. Through the open dial you can see bridges finished with rainbow PVD coating, each in a different metallic colour.

The 44mm case is matte white ceramic, which resists scratches and stays light on the wrist while making the colours stand out.

Movement: El Primero 9004

The automatic El Primero 9004 uses two regulating organs and two gear trains. The time runs at 5 Hz, while the chronograph runs at 50 Hz. A chronograph power reserve indicator sits at 12 o'clock. The movement is a certified chronometer and offers at least 50 hours of power reserve. It continues the El Primero legacy, the high-frequency automatic chronograph Zenith introduced in 1969.

Why Choose the Defy 21 Chroma

  • Limited to just 200 pieces worldwide
  • One of the fastest mechanical chronographs in production, measuring 1/100th of a second
  • Scratch-resistant white ceramic case with a full rainbow colour concept
  • Certified chronometer from one of the founding names in high-frequency chronographs

FAQ

How many Zenith Defy 21 Chroma watches were made?

The Defy 21 Chroma 49.9010.9004/01.R947 is limited to 200 pieces.

How does the Defy 21 measure 1/100th of a second?

The El Primero 9004 has a separate chronograph escapement running at 50 Hz. The central chronograph hand completes one full rotation every second.

What is the case material of the Defy 21 Chroma?

The 44mm case is made of matte white ceramic, with a sapphire display case back.

Is the Defy 21 Chroma water resistant?

Yes, it is water resistant to 100m (10 ATM).

Does this watch come with box and papers?

Please contact us to confirm the full set contents (box, warranty card and papers) for this specific piece.

Can I view this watch in Dubai or by video call?

Yes. Book a private viewing in Dubai through the form below, or contact Prestige Calibers on WhatsApp or by phone at +971585251224 for a live video presentation.

Dial color: White

Case size: 44mm

Case material: White Ceramic

Strap material: Rubber

Strap color: White

Functions: Hours / Minutes / Chronograph / Power Reserve Indicator / Small Seconds

Caliber: El Primero 9004, In-house

Power reserve: 50 hours

Gender: Men's

Movement: Automatic

Water resistance: 100m/10 bar

Buckle type: Folding Clasp

Case back: Open

Limited edition: 200 pieces

At Prestige Calibers, we stand behind every timepiece we sell. When you purchase a watch from us, you can be confident in both its authenticity and excellent condition.

Before any watch reaches you, it undergoes a thorough inspection and verification process by our in-house experts to ensure it is 100% genuine and in flawless working order.

We offer a two-year warranty on all pre-owned watches. This covers any mechanical issues that are not caused by improper use or accidental damage. If you experience a problem with your timepiece under these conditions, we will provide the necessary professional maintenance at no cost to you.

Our warranty reflects our deep confidence in the quality and reliability of the watches we offer. It’s not just a service - it’s our promise to you. We take full responsibility for the products we deliver, and we’re proud to offer you true peace of mind with every purchase.

0 / 0

Prestige Calibers - Trusted Luxury Watch Experts Since 2012

Since 2012, we have specialized in genuine luxury watches, helping clients source authentic timepieces through a reliable network of trusted suppliers and tested traders. This allows us to present competitive offers across a wide selection of luxury watch models while maintaining high standards of service, transparency, and client support.

Our approach is built on authenticity and trust. Every watch is handled with close attention, and we welcome all reasonable verification procedures, including independent checks and third-party inspections. For us, client confidence is just as important as the watch itself.

In addition to sales, we also provide luxury watch buying and trade-in services, giving our clients the opportunity to sell, upgrade, or exchange their watches with professional support. With access to more than 1,500 tested traders, we are able to respond to different sourcing requests efficiently. Each customer is assisted by a personal manager available 24/7, ensuring clear communication and a smooth experience at every stage.