At the end of January, Zenith Watches launched during LVMH Watch Week a series of novelties. The Defy collection was enriched with a new series – Zenith Defy Skyline with a new ElPrimero, non-chrono movement.
The Zenith Defy Skyline is the newest line in the Defy Collection and combines modern features with reinterpreted classic Zenith lines and elements. The collection was launched in three variations: blue, black and white dial with integrated steel bracelet and second rubber strap available in the retail package.
The case
The Zenith Defy Skyline received more character in the 41mm steel case with a more angular design. The intermezzo of the polished surfaces highlights the lines of the brushed case and bracelet.
The case is covered with a signature bezel inspired by the original Defy watches. But instead of 14 facets, the new Skyline received 12 for a better aesthetic balance. The design is in match with the position of the hour indexes creating a cohesive appearance.
The watch is fitted with a completely redesigned screwed crown that integrated the Zenith logo. At the same time, the stronger lines and proportions fits somehow better the sporty Defy intent.
The Zenith Defy Skyline comes with a gorgeous integrated bracelet with Zenith’s proprietary easy change system. As you can see in the video above, the removal and change of the strap/bracelet are really fast and easy. All three dial variants come with a rubber strap: blue rubber for the blue dial, black rubber for the black dial and green for the white dial – a maybe unusual choice for the white dial but definitely a very good looking one.
The dial
The dial surprises the viewer with a subdial not showing, as expected, the running seconds but the 10ths of the seconds in 10 seconds timing. This was possible due the Zenith‘s unique El Primero movement that was modified for the unusual display. This “complication” is more of a gimmick without a specific intended function.
The dial presents a superb stamped pattern inspired by the traditional/vintage 60’s Zenith star logo. The rest of the dial enjoys a sunray brush dial centred at the applied Zenith logo.
11 applied bar indexes with rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1 will make the legibility excellent in all light conditions. The design can be met also at the hands. A well visible date aperture is present at 3 o’clock.
The El Primero redesigned
The Zenith Defy Skyline is powered by the Calibre El Primero 3620. This uses as inspiration the modern El Primero 3600 but was entirely reworked. The permanent running seconds needed to be integrated into the design and rebuilt the gearing to access the escapement.
The movement is nicely decorated and the view of the star-shaped bi-directional rotor brings character. The timing blue screw accompanies the silicon escapement creating a colourful contrast with the brushed and matt finish of the movement.
The El Primero 3620 is a fast one – 5Hz (36,000 vph), offering spectacularity not only visually but also technically and, moreover, it offers a robust 60 hours of power reserve. The purists can enjoy the hacking seconds to set their watch with staggering precision.
Conclusions
Zenith manages to bring spectacularity with every new launch. An inspired selection of colours, interesting mechanics makes the new Zenith Defy Skyline an attractive proposal.
The good looking finishes, internal and external, are completed by a good and comfortable wrist position. The overall package combines Zenith’s traditions and views into the future. And I love it!
Zenith Defy Skyline Technical Specifications
Reference
Functions
- Hours and minutes in the centre.
- 1/10th of a second counter at 9 o’clock.
- Date indication at 3 o’clock.
Movement
- El Primero 3620, automatic
- Frequency 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
- Silicon escape-wheel and lever
- Power reserve approx. 60 hours
- Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings
Case
- Material: Stainless steel
- Diameter: 41mm
- Screwed-in crown
- Water resistance: 10 ATM
Dial
- Sunburst-patterned
- Starry sky pattern
- Hour markers: Black ruthenium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
- Hands : Black ruthenium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle:
- Stainless steel bracelet and folding clasp.
- Comes with a rubber strap with a starry sky pattern and folding clasp.
Price
- CHF 8’400.00 / 8.300,00 € / $8,400.00 / £7,100.00 / S$12,400
