Zenith first teamed up with British DJ, producer, and house music pioneer Carl Cox back in 2020 for a limited edition variation of its Defy watch with a carbon case, a small seconds indicator shaped like a vinyl record, and a bright red strap. Three years later, the duo has come together again for a second collaboration. With the all-new Defy Extreme Carl Cox, we get a bolder design in an even more limited run of just 100 pieces.
For the Limited Edition Defy Extreme Carl Cox, Zenith draws inspiration from three specific turntables that helped Cox establish his career. The model features a striking case design with a two-tone combination of matte-finished stainless steel and yellow gold, a first for the Defy Extreme lineup. Look more closely at the details and you’ll see the matte yellow gold accents on the dodecagonal bezel and pusher guards are reminiscent of the turntable stylus’s golden tonearm. The nods to Cox’s most beloved turntables extend to the dial where the three black chronograph counters take on the form of miniature vinyl records, with concentric grooves that capture and reflect light as if they were spinning. Here, the minute track is decorated with a pattern of perfectly aligned dots that recall the stroboscope effect found on the sides of one of Carl Cox’s favourite turntables. And last but not least, the power reserve indicator at twelve o’clock is fashioned like a turntable’s on/off switch.
“I feel so honoured that Zenith has immortalised the three turntables that helped make my name within this watch,” shares Cox. “Beautifully done and with incredible attention to detail, the watch is a fitting tribute to something that has made dancefloors come to life all over the world from a brand that is known for its mastery of movement. They wanted to do something special, and they couldn’t have done better.”
The Defy Extreme Carl Cox is available in a limited run of just 100 pieces and is priced at RM134,800. This model will be available to order beginning 25 September exclusively from Zenith’s website and at boutiques around the world. In addition, buyers of this limited edition timepiece will have the opportunity to meet Carl Cox personally at selected events.
Previously published on Robb Report.