Zenith is kicking off 2023 in style by updating their most creative and darling line, the DEFY collection. Zenith will unveil their latest DEFY models at the LVMH Watch Week 2023, accompanying other Maisons such as Bulgari, Hublot and Tag Heuer.
One of the latest models to roll off the new DEFY production line is the Skyline Skeleton. The DEFY Skyline Skeleton was introduced in 2022 as part of the last chapter of the DEFY legacy. The concept of the DEFY Skyline was that it takes cues from modern cityscape where structures and light are bound in a constantly moving interplay.
The DEFY Skyline Skeleton comes housed in an angular 41mm steel case and a dial that has a symmetrical skeleton shape in the form of a four-pointed star. This skeleton star is a nod to the ZENITH “double Z” logo from the 1960s. The sculpted 41mm steel case has an edgier architectural design when compared to its predecessors; however, it still retains the same DNA of robustness and durability of the old. Whilst the bezel is reminiscent of the early DEFY models, on this new DEFY Skyline Skeleton, it is now re-imagined with twelve sides which are positioned to be an extension of the hour markers in the dial.
The dial is offered in either black or blue with a matching black or blue skeleton main plate, bridges and open star-shaped oscillating weight. The different finishing on the movement, from a matte finish to satin-brushed and polished surfaces all help to create a sense of depth for the dial. The dial features a 1/10 of a second counter at 6 o’clock, which makes steady jumps in fixed increments, completing one revolution every 10 seconds. Zenith has also retained a feature that is otherwise omitted in some skeleton watches, the use of SuperLuminova, which is used on the chapter ring’s applied baton hour markers along with the hour and minute hands.
As can be seen from the dial side and also the case back is Zenith’s high-frequency automatic El Primero calibre 3620 SK. The calibre 3620 SK is built with a similar framework as the El Primero 3600 1/10th of a second chronograph, with the difference being that the SK drives the 1/10th of second-hand directly from the escapement. The escapement beats at 5Hz (36 000 VpH). This bi-directional winding calibre gives out a power reserve of approximately 60 hours.
Both variants of the DEFY Skyline Skeleton come with Zenith’s quick strap change system, which allows the wearer to change from either a steel bracelet with a satin-brushed surface to dial colour matching rubber strap with a steel clasp.
Zenith is re-imagining skeleton watches with the new DEFY Skyline Skeleton by bringing together exceptional design with exceptional function. The Zenith DEFY Skyline Skeleton will be available at Zenith Boutiques and authorized retailers around the world.
