"Defy Lab". Automatic (Cal. ZO 342). 18 jewels. 108,000 vph. Power reserve approximately 60 hours. Aeronight (diameter 44mm). Water resistant to 5 bar.
On Wednesday, September 27th, the first Asian launch event for Zenith's new watch, Defy Lab, was held at the Roppongi Academyhills Library Cafe on the 49th floor of Roppongi Hills in Tokyo.
The new oscillator that will be installed in the Defy Lab attracted the most attention at the presentation, and was explained for the majority of the event. Announced as "THE REVOLUTIONARY OSCILLATOR," the new oscillator is, according to Zenith, "the greatest invention since the balance spring invented in 1675." In reality, it is a single escapement and regulator that combines the functions of the balance spring, balance wheel, anchor, and regulator all in one structure.
This new oscillator's structure eliminates contact with friction and wear, eliminating the need for lubrication. Furthermore, because it is made of single-crystal silicon, it is less susceptible to temperature changes and magnetic fields. In theory, this, combined with the aforementioned features, should significantly reduce the frequency of maintenance.
The new oscillator operates at a high frequency of 108,000 vibrations per hour to achieve an average daily deviation of ±0.3 seconds, yet still achieves a power reserve of approximately 60 hours, more than 10% longer than the El Primero.
The Defy Lab, which features this completely new escapement and regulator, has only been produced in a limited run of 10 pieces so far, but the company is already working towards mass production. Details will be featured in the January 2018 issue (Issue 74), which will be released on December 1st.
Contact info: LVMH Watches & Jewelry Japan Zenith Tel. 03-5524-6420
