Hot Take: The Zenith Defy Extreme Diver Silver Dial
In April 2024, Zenith introduced the Defy Extreme Diver, a bold and modern dive watch. The brand is most famous for its chronographs, so a new diver is big news. The initial release brought a pair of black- and blue-dialed watches. Today, an icy silver version joins the lineup as a serial-production model.
This year’s Defy Extreme Diver is a heavy-duty water-ready watch with styling traits consistent with other Defy models. An angular case, textured Skyline dial, and El Primero (sans chronograph) movement make it recognizable as a Zenith model. Feedback was split when we reviewed the initial releases, but most commenters agreed that the watches are impressive in person. For those on the fence, perhaps a new silver dial will make a difference.
The Zenith Defy Extreme Diver Silver Dial
The latest Defy Extreme Diver uses a 42.5mm by 47.4mm titanium case, consistent with its stable mates. It has a beefy 600m depth rating, a helium valve, a screw-down crown, and a polished black ceramic dive bezel. Naturally, the watch has a sapphire crystal, which contributes to the 15.5mm overall thickness.
A brighter dial
This Defy Extreme Diver’s dial maintains a brushed sunray finish and Skyline (four-pointed-star) motif. The orange outer minute track also carries over from sibling models. Similarly, the large Super-LumiNova-filled indices and hands are on display. Once again, Zenith opted for modern white lume, which is in keeping with the watch’s overall style. A point worth mentioning is that this piece has a dial-matching black-on-silver date wheel.
Two straps and a bracelet
Push buttons on the back of the case make strap changes a breeze. While the lugs aren’t traditional on the Defy Extreme Diver, the watch comes with three interchangeable options. A titanium H-link bracelet with a folding clasp offers the “dressiest” look. A black FKM rubber strap with a kevlar texture and folding clasp is sporty but classy due to its integrated appearance. Finally, a double-pass nylon strap made from recycled fishing nets and equipped with a pin buckle turns the watch into a vacation-ready companion.
The El Primero 3620 SC
Once again, the Defy Extreme Diver uses the brand’s El Primero 3620 SC automatic movement. Like all El Primero calibers, it has a high-speed 36,000vph (5Hz) frequency. Whereas some brands use slower movements to help achieve longer power reserves, the 3620 SC delivers a commendable 60 hours.
Final thoughts on the Defy Extreme Diver Silver Dial
The latest Defy Extreme Diver with a silver dial is priced at €11,800, the same as the blue- and black-dialed models. For a premium brand like Zenith, that’s not unexpected. Some have expressed concern with the size of these watches. Indeed, for smaller wrists, it would be nice to see a 39mm or 40mm version, but the relatively short case length makes the current models wear reasonably well. Overall, I like the silver dial even if there’s less contrast than on the darker models. It’s a smooth, cool look that stands out from the more common black and blue dive watches. What are your thoughts on this piece and silver divers in general?
