Zenith Defy Zero-G Red Gold Hands-On

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Ornatus-Mundi's hands-on review of the Zenith Defy Zero-G in red gold provides a detailed look at this horological marvel, emphasizing its miniaturized gravity control module. His analysis highlights the aesthetic and technical advancements of the El Primero 8812S caliber, particularly how the red gold material enhances the watch's visual appeal compared to its titanium counterpart. This article offers a comprehensive perspective on a significant complication.

The Zenith Defy Zero-G is a bold statement in a number of ways: the tremendously miniaturised gravity control module (the gimbal-mounted escapement assembly), the new refreshed and substantial case, and now also the solid 18kt red gold material: make no mistake, this is a heck of a watch:

The watch is the 'rich sister' of the titanium version which I had presented earlier: www.watchprosite.com

And just like that, it comes with exactly the same combination of a massive case construction combined with a boldy skeletonised movement and colour-constrasted subdials:

There is, however, one significant difference which can directly be attributed to the choice of materials: The rose gold on the bridges exhibit a magical glow which lends a special aesthetic delight to the watch. The contrast in colour and surface structure, both functions of the materials, is much stronger than with the titanium version.

Aptly, the module is placed in the center of an imaginary Zenith star:

Central to the allure of the Zero-G is the new handwound Zenith calibre El Primero 8812S which comprises of 324 components (139 of which are assembled in the gyroscopic mechanism). The gravitiy control module could be miniaturised to less than 1/3 of its original volume. Not only is this an amazing technical feat by the watchmakers at Zenith, it also has a tremendous practical advantage: the module requires much less space in the z-axis, allowing it to fit between the two crystals of the watch without the need of the characteristic bulge the previous version were known for.

A weight is affixed to the bottom of the module, carrying the famous Zenith star:

The remainder of the movement is executed with matted mainplate, brushed bridge surfaces and rhodium-plated wheels, in an attempt to offer an appealing finishing, while maintaining the focus of attention on the gyroscope.

Zenith’s Defy Zero-G in red gold is a pleasant and contemptorary luxurious watch to wear. The new reduced gravity control module decidedly enhances the wearing comfort (I have to mention that I never had any issues with the older, larger one either, but this does not hold true for all of us) while taking nothing away from the technological mastery that this development embodies.

It would be a tough choice for me to make between the red gold and the titanium version: using a purely technical judgement, I find the combination of a lightweight titanium case with the reduced gyroscope module a compelling and conceptually consistent watch. Aesthetically however I prefer the red gold version by a (very) small margin offered by the enhanced contrast I mentioned.

As I said, this is a tough choice to make...

I shall soon travel to Le Locle to inspect the gravity control module a bit closer and also learn more about the secrets which made its miniaturisation possible.

Cheers,

Magnus

Key Points from the Discussion

The Zenith Defy Zero-G is a mechanical and finishing tour de force, with the red gold version particularly enhancing its visual brilliance.
The red gold version offers superior dial contrast compared to the titanium model, making it more visually appealing to some collectors.
The red gold and strong case lines of the Defy Zero-G are fitting for its incredible mechanical complexity, making a unique and powerful statement.

The Discussion

farkbinder01212

Oct 17, 2018

Great pics and write up. I agree with you about the contrasting elements of the dial. The all Titanium version needs more contrast on the dial, IMHO. This one is very nice. Makes me question my "No Gold or Skeleton Dials" policy. I will be picking up the panda dialed Defy El Primero 21 as soon as I can find one.

gadalex

Oct 17, 2018

I tried on the titanium edition a little while ago and it is a tour de force in mechanical watchmaking and surface finishing. In rose gold it certainly shines. Years ago I had the opportunity to see the original, outrageous Thierry Nataf Zero-G Defy, which was even designated as a tourbillon, which I believe it's not. Zenith have taken this outstanding movement concept and placed it within a beautifully designed and well proportioned timepiece. Regards, Baruch

JToddH

Oct 19, 2018

This piece makes such a unique and powerful statement. The gold and strong lines of the case and bracelet are appropriate for such incredible mechanics. An awe-inspiring piece in every way!

andrewluff

Oct 19, 2018

This is one heck of a beautiful combination and shows off the module so much better than the Ti version! Can't wait to try one on. Cheers Andrew

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