Zenith brings a powerful vision to life with its DEFY Skyline Tourbillon, sculpted entirely in rose gold and illuminated by a mesmerising brick-red dial, the Ref. 18.9301.3630/67.I001. This latest addition to the DEFY collection does more than deliver technical complexity; it embodies the Manufacture’s historic connection to Le Locle while radiating contemporary flair in every angular line and polished surface.
The DEFY Skyline’s architecture wears its identity confidently. Measuring 41 millimetres across, the rose gold case is a study in sharp geometry and alternating surface finishes. Satin-brushed and polished facets catch the light distinctly, emphasising the bold silhouette that defines the entire DEFY lineage. This version takes further inspiration from the Manufacture’s roots, with its dial painted in a deep brick-red—a chromatic gesture to the red-and-white brickwork of Zenith’s historic home. The dial is decorated with engraved four-pointed stars, each ray echoing outward from the aperture at six o’clock, where the tourbillon performs its mechanical dance. Hour markers and hands, both faceted and rose gold, are charged with Super-LumiNova, blending functionality and opulence in unison with the design.
Within this radiant case pulses the El Primero 3630 calibre, an automatic movement developed entirely by Zenith’s in-house masters. Operating at a vigorous 5Hz, the movement casts its spell not only with remarkable precision but also with architectural beauty. The tourbillon carriage, shaped in black as a double Z star, rotates once every sixty seconds, its minimalist mass a tribute to Zenith’s mastery of miniaturisation. The movement’s finishing stands out, with a contemporary 3D laser-engraved “côtes de Genève” pattern that draws eyes towards the tourbillon, echoing the star motif of the dial while radiating technical depth across the bridges.
The oscillating weight is another highlight, now rose gold and fashioned into an openworked star that not only adds visual intrigue but also provides an unhindered view into the heart of the movement. The power reserve offers up to fifty hours, an assurance of performance in even the busiest urban setting.
Versatility is built into every detail. The watch is strapped to the wrist with an integrated rose gold H-link bracelet, tapering fluidly from case to clasp for ergonomic comfort and visual coherence. Zenith demonstrates its expertise in wearability with a quick-change system allowing effortless transition to the included brick-red rubber strap. Each option delivering a different character while maintaining the overall harmony of design.
Water resistance up to ten atmospheres gives the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon an edge in daily life, fortifying its luxury with functional resilience. Every component, from the screwed-in crown to the secure folding clasp, reveals Zenith’s commitment to urban sophistication and technical integration.
Zenith’s DEFY Skyline Tourbillon in rose gold (Ref. 18.9301.3630/67.I001 – 97.400,00 €( captures the brand’s relentless spirit, the pursuit of excellence, the courage to innovate, and the devotion to watchmaking’s evolution. By bringing together robust architecture, a high-frequency tourbillon, and unmistakable aesthetic codes, Zenith offers a watch that is as much a celebration of the Manufacture’s heritage as it is a statement for the modern collector. In the language of complication and design, this timepiece speaks eloquently of legacy reimagined, always ready for the next challenge.
