After the skeletonized “time-only” version and the chronograph version introduced during the last edition of Watches and Wonders, Zenith today presents a brand-new Defy Skyline, a masterpiece of technique and architectural design, at LVMH Watch Week. This new sporty timepiece, with an integrated bracelet, is distinguished by its iconic octagonal case and a skeletonized dial that reveals the watch’s mechanical heart, a symbol of innovation and precision in contemporary watchmaking.

Let’s find out all the details within this article.

The design of the new Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton

The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton is the result of a perfect balance between bold aesthetics and mechanical performance. The skeletonization, achieved by removing material from the plate and bridges, allows a glimpse of the technical details of the movement, visible both from the front and through the sapphire crystal case back.

The three openworked subdials, in harmony with the geometric design of the dial, recall Zenith’s historic “Double Z” logo from the 1960s. Faceted hour markers and rhodium-plated hands, both treated with Super-LumiNova, ensure excellent legibility even in low light conditions.

The aesthetics are enhanced by the octagonal stainless steel case, featuring a combination of polished and brushed surfaces that create a sophisticated play of light and shadow. The 12-facet bezel, ergonomic chronograph pushers and screw-down crown engraved with the Zenith star give the model a distinctive character.

The transparent case back, secured with four hexagonal screws, allows the movement to be admired, and together with the screw-down crown ensurewater resistance to 10 ATM (100 meters), making the chronograph ideal for everyday use, even in sporting settings.

An element of great versatility is the interchangeable strap system, which allows the user to switch from the integrated steel bracelet to a rubber strap that matches the color of the dial (black or blue) with a simple button located on the back of the case. This feature allows the watch to be adapted to different occasions, from elegant to more casual settings.

Zenith offers two color variants of this chronograph: one version with a black mainplate, dial and oscillating weight, and another with blue details. Both configurations boast high-end finishes, with satin-finished and brushed elements further enhancing the architectural effect of the skeleton design.

The caliber of the new Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton

At the heart of this extraordinary timepiece beats the El Primero 3600SK caliber, an automatic movement that operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz).

This high frequency makes it possible to measure precisely to the tenth of a second, made visible by the central chronograph hand that makes a full revolution every 10 seconds. The power reserve of about 60 hours ensures remarkable reliability for a high-frequency chronograph, confirming Zenith’s engineering excellence.

Conclusions

With this creation, the “star of Zenith” shines even brighter and affirms its vocation for innovation, continuing the tradition of excellence that began in 1865. The DEFY collection, with its modern design and cutting-edge technical solutions, represents a perfect marriage of past and future. The El Primero caliber, first introduced in 1969 as the first high-frequency automatic chronograph movement, continues to evolve, confirming Zenith’s pioneering role in the field.

With the DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton, Zenith not only celebrates its tradition of precision, but also demonstrates a visionary approach to design, making this model a true icon of contemporary luxury.

This new Defy will be available exclusively in Zenith boutiques, at authorized retailers and on the brand’s official website. It is priced at CHF 14,900, corresponding to approximately EUR 15,900, placing it in the premium segment of the luxury watch market, perfectly in line with the manufacturing quality and performance offered.

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