ZENITH x USM Reflect on Time with a Unique DEFY Chronograph for TimeForArt

Some collaborations feel inevitable. When two brands share not only Swiss roots but also a pivotal moment in design history, the result can be something far more meaningful than a simple partnership. That is precisely the case with ZENITH and USM Modular Furniture, who reunite to create a singular timepiece for the 2026 edition of TimeForArt.

Building on the success of their first collaboration unveiled in 2025, the two design-driven houses present the DEFY Chronograph USM – TimeForArt Unique Piece, a one-of-one creation that reimagines the acclaimed DEFY Chronograph USM through the lens of reflection, art and collectability.

The story begins in the late 1960s, a groundbreaking era for both brands. USM patented its now-iconic Haller modular furniture system in 1965, while ZENITH introduced the original DEFY and the revolutionary El Primero automatic chronograph in 1969. Both were bold statements of engineering, functionality and forward-thinking design. Decades later, that shared creative DNA continues to inspire.

For this latest chapter, the vibrant coloured dials of the original DEFY Chronograph USM collection have been replaced with a striking mirror-polished surface. Constantly interacting with its surroundings, the dial captures changing light, architecture and movement, ensuring the watch never appears quite the same way twice. It is a poetic interpretation of time itself, reflecting the world around it rather than merely measuring its passage.

Against this reflective backdrop, three overlapping azuré chronograph counters come alive through four distinctive colours drawn directly from USM’s celebrated palette: USM Golden Yellow, Pure Orange, Green and Gentian Blue. For the first time, the full quartet appears together on a single dial, bringing a vibrant sense of playfulness to an otherwise minimalist composition.

The watch retains the defining elements that made the original collaboration so compelling. Its compact 37 mm stainless-steel case features the DEFY collection’s signature octagonal architecture and fourteen-sided bezel, while the stainless-steel ladder bracelet references vintage ZENITH design. A thoughtful detail sits at the tip of the chronograph seconds hand, where a miniature USM Haller ball joint quietly pays homage to the furniture system that inspired the project.

Powering the timepiece is the legendary El Primero 400, ZENITH’s high-frequency automatic column-wheel chronograph calibre. Beating at 36,000 vibrations per hour and offering a 55-hour power reserve, it remains one of watchmaking’s most celebrated movements, combining precision with historical significance.

The collaboration extends well beyond the wrist. USM has created an equally exclusive mirrored Haller sideboard designed specifically for the project. Created to house up to 24 watches, the bespoke piece features a glass-topped display section and a lockable drawer beneath, transforming storage into an elegant showcase for a collector’s most treasured timepieces. It is a seamless fusion of furniture design and horological culture.

Created for the third edition of TimeForArt, the watch and accompanying furniture piece celebrate the intersection of contemporary art, craftsmanship and design. Organised by Swiss Institute in partnership with Phillips, the charity auction invites leading watchmakers to create unique pieces, with proceeds supporting exhibitions, educational initiatives and cultural programming.

The DEFY Chronograph USM – TimeForArt Unique Piece will be auctioned by Phillips in New York on 5 December 2026, with all proceeds, including the buyer’s premium, benefiting Swiss Institute. As a reflection on time, creativity and collaboration, it stands as a remarkable example of what can happen when two icons of Swiss design choose to look beyond their own disciplines and create something entirely unique.