The partnership between Zenith and USM has resulted in an exclusive capsule collection that merges precision watchmaking with modular furniture design, paying homage to the groundbreaking achievements of that era.
Zenith and USM: Celebrating 1960s Creativity with an Exclusive Capsule Collection
In a remarkable collaboration, two icons of Swiss design and manufacturing, Zenith and USM, have joined forces to celebrate the innovative spirit of the 1960s.
Por: Alejandro Carrillo
The Defy Chronograph USM
At the heart of this collaboration is the Defy Chronograph USM, a timepiece that reimagines the original 1969 Zenith Defy as a chronograph.
The watch features a 37.3 mm stainless steel case with an octagonal silhouette and a 14-sided bezel, reflecting the geometric purity characteristic of the USM Haller modular system introduced in 1965. The dial is available in four vibrant colors—Gentian Blue, Golden Yellow, Green, and Pure Orange—each limited to 60 pieces, making this collection a rare find for collectors.
Design and Functionality
The Defy Chronograph USM combines aesthetic appeal with technical prowess. It is powered by the El Primero 400 calibre, an evolution of the original 1969 movement, offering high-frequency precision and a 55-hour power reserve.
The watch is water-resistant up to 10 ATM and features a “ladder” bracelet designed by Gay Frères in 1969. Each timepiece is presented in a custom-designed USM Haller timepiece chest, further enhancing its collectible value.
A Tribute to 1960s Innovation
This capsule collection is more than just a watch; it is a tribute to the creativity and innovation of the 1960s. By reimagining the Zenith Defy as a chronograph and integrating elements of the USM Haller system, the collaboration brings together two distinct yet complementary design philosophies, resulting in a timepiece that embodies the spirit of that transformative decade.
Key Information
- What is the Zenith and USM capsule collection? The Zenith and USM capsule collection is a limited edition series of timepieces that combines Zenith's precision watchmaking with USM's modular furniture design, celebrating the creativity of the 1960s.
- How many pieces are available in the collection? Each dial color—Gentian Blue, Golden Yellow, Green, and Pure Orange—is limited to 60 pieces, totaling 240 watches in the collection.
- What is the price of each timepiece? Each watch in the Zenith and USM capsule collection is priced at CHF 10,900(≈ USD 13,630).
- Where can I purchase a watch from this collection? The Zenith and USM capsule collection is available through authorized retailers and select online platforms. Availability may vary, so it's recommended to check with local dealers for stock information.








