Following their initial partnership launched in September 2025, ZENITH and USM Modular Furniture cross paths once again to bring to life a unique piece dedicated to the TimeForArt charity auction. The DEFY Chronograph USM – TimeForArt reinterprets the previous version by replacing its colored dials with a striking mirror-polished surface that constantly interacts with light and its surrounding environment.
Organized by the Swiss Institute in collaboration with Phillips auction house, the TimeForArt event in New York will bring together 25 high-end watchmaking houses in 2026, allocating 100% of the proceeds to support contemporary art projects, educational programs, and public exhibitions.
A Historic Encounter Between Haute Horlogeria and Industrial Design
The synergy between ZENITH and USM Modular Furniture is no coincidence; both shared a decisive moment in the 1960s. In 1965, USM patented its iconic ball joint, the core of its modular metal furniture system conceived by architect Fritz Haller. Just four years later, in 1969, ZENITH unveiled the angular geometry of its DEFY model alongside the groundbreaking El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph.
This unique piece reinterprets the 37mm stainless steel octagonal architecture with its fourteen-sided bezel and iconic “ladder” bracelet. However, the major highlight lies in its reflective mirror-polished dial, over which three azuré-finished chronograph sub-dials rest. For the first time in a single watch, the indexes and hands combine the four characteristic tones from USM’s palette: USM Golden Yellow, USM Pure Orange, USM Green, and USM Gentian Blue. As a fine design detail, the tip of the central chronograph seconds hand features a miniature version of the USM Haller ball joint.
High-Frequency Mechanics: El Primero 400 Calibre
Beating inside this 37mm stainless steel case is the legendary movement from the Le Locle manufacture: El Primero 400. It is a high-frequency column-wheel automatic chronograph operating at 36,000 VpH (5 Hz), ensuring exceptional precision and a fluid sweep of the central chronograph hand.
The movement integrates advanced components such as a silicon escape wheel and lever, offering a power reserve of 55 hours. Through the case back, the oscillating weight reveals a refined Cotes de Genève decoration and a custom bearing featuring the interlocked ZENITH and USM logos.
Technical Specifications: ZENITH DEFY Chronograph USM – TimeForArt
| Technical Sheet | |
|---|---|
| Reference | 03.A780.400-T/01.M3642 (Unique Piece) |
| Case | 37 mm stainless steel (10 ATM / 100 meters) |
| Movement | El Primero 400 (Automatic with column wheel) |
| Frequency | 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours |
| Escapement | Silicon lever and escape wheel |
| Dial | Mirror-polished with accents in USM colors |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o’clock, chronograph, and date at 4:30 |
| Bracelet | Stainless steel “ladder” bracelet |
Exclusive USM Haller Display Cabinet for 24 Watches
The project extends beyond the wrist by including a piece of furniture specifically conceived for collectors. It is a unique mirror-finished USM Haller sideboard designed to house up to 24 timepieces.
Through the glass top surface, the first layer of the collection remains visible, while a lockable lower compartment grants access to a drawer offering additional storage space for the collection. This object seamlessly integrates the language of Swiss industrial modular design with the ritual of haute horology and watch collecting.
Charity Auction at Phillips New York
The set comprising the DEFY Chronograph USM watch and the display cabinet will go to auction at Phillips New York on December 5, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST. 100% of the proceeds, including the buyer’s premium, will go directly to the Swiss Institute to support its exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives.
