The second season of Extreme E is at full throttle. Following the first part of the double header Island X Prix on the Italian island of Sardinia, Zenith has unveiled its second Defy Extreme E Special Edition.

As the official timekeeper and founding partner of the electric race series, the release of the new timepiece is timely. The second edition of the Zenith Defy Extreme E Special Edition is a stunning follow-up to the special series crafted for the electric rally racing championship.

Based on the Defy Extreme Carbon, the world’s lightest and most rugged 1/100th of a second automatic high-frequency chronograph, the Defy Extreme E “Island X Prix” incorporates upcycled elements from the championship with the back-to-back races’ official colour in vivid orange.

Inspired by the world of motorsports, the Defy Extreme E “Island X Prix” edition is crafted in incredibly light yet highly robust carbon fibre, including the crown and chronograph pushers. The boldly angular geometrical case, push protectors and twelve-sided bezel are made from micro blasted titanium.

An open multi-layered dial greets the wearer. Featuring a futuristic layout, the face of the watch features sapphire crystal elements, embellished with fiery orange accents – the official colour of the “Island X Prix”.

Partially visible through the dial as well as the case back is the fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production. It offers a 1/100th of a second time measurements, with two escapements independently beating at 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph function.  This movement is also visible through the sapphire display back, emblazoned with the Island X Prix logo.

Upcycled Elements

In line with the message of sustainability, the Defy Extreme E “Island X Prix” is delivered with a rubber strap infused with materials of recycled Continental CrossContact tires that were used in the first season’s races.

Matching the Island X Prix bright orange accents on the dial, the Velcro strap features a black rubber central element surrounded by an orange cordura-effect rubber inlay. The Zenith Defy Extreme E “Island X Prix” edition also comes with two additional straps in black rubber and black Velcro, which can be easily swapped without any tools by using the case back’s ingenious and intuitive quick strap-change mechanism.

The timepiece comes packaged in a suitably sturdy waterproof and crushproof watch case inspired by the extreme conditions of the rally. It incorporates various recycled and upcycled elements from the side-lines of earlier races. For instance, the cases lid coating is made from recycled E-grip tires, while the plate covering is made from parts of an Extreme E Season 1 racing tarpaulin.

For those looking to get their hands on the timepiece be forewarned. The Defy Extreme E “Island X Prix” will be made in a limited edition of only 20 pieces and will only be exclusively available at Zenith physical and online boutiques around the world.

(Images: Zenith)