Launching an array of new pieces at LVMH Watch Week, Swiss manufacture Zenith is getting creative this year as it extends its DEFY Skyline watch options. The horology house also introduces the world to its very first 41 mm DEFY Skyline Boutique Edition, a couple of new dial colours, as well as some scaled-down 36 mm models.
The new DEFY Skyline Skeleton models introduce a new expression of Zenith’s fast-past modern skeleton watch, powering the timepieces with its famous El Primero calibre. Boasting uniquely symmetrical open dials in either black or blue, the 41 mm watches come in a steel case. These harmonious dials, with their four-pointed stars, expose the with the skeleton movement’s main plate as well as the bridges and open star-shaped oscillating weight. For an extra level depth, Zenith combine matt, polished, and satin-brushed finishing.
Powering these new models is an El Primero calibre, which is visible via the sapphire crystal caseback. The 3620 SK has a similar architecture to the El Primero 3600 1/10th of a second chronograph, and drives the 1/10th of a second hand directly from the escapement, which beats at 5Hz. Its efficient automatic bi-directional winding mechanism with a star-shaped rotor delivers a power reserve of approximately 60 hours. Price: 10,900 CHF.
The DEFY Skyline is now introducing a boutique edition for the very first time. This special model also has an angular 41 mm case, and features an unusual new dial. The anthracite dial is engraved with a rose-gold motif, matching to the rose-gold hands and hour markers. Evoking a starry sky with its distinctive four-point stars that reimagine Zenith’s 1960s ‘double Z’ logo, the dial also integrates a date function at 3 o’clock and small seconds at 9 o’clock.
Powering the DEFY Skyline Boutique Edition is the El Primero calibre 3620. Also built with a similar architecture to the El Primero 3600 1/10th of a second chronograph, this automatic in-house movement integrates a stop-second mechanism for precise time-setting. The efficient automatic winding mechanism with bi-directional rotor offers a power reserve of approximately 60 hours. This special edition will be available from Zenith boutiques as well as online. Price: 8,900 CHF.
Another novelty to emerge from Zenith at LVMH Watch Week is the DEFY Extreme Glacier. Following on from its predecessor, the DEFY Extreme Desert, the new model takes its inspiration from ‘frozen barren landscapes’. The most striking parts of this unusual new conception are surely the pusher protectors and the dodecagonal bezel. Both are crafted from chalcedony, a crystalline semi-translucent stone with a pale blue hue that evokes the frozen glaciers.
Powering this icey new creation, with its unusual partially open-worked dial, is the singular El Primero 1/100th of a second automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre. Its two regulating organs beat at 50Hz for the chronograph and 5Hz for the timekeeping – with transparent sapphire crystal chronograph subdial counters adding another unusual yet legible touch. Finally, the DEFY Extreme Glacier comes with a durable black Velcro strap and white rubber strap, although this can be replaced with a titanium bracelet. Price: 25,900 CHF.
Last but not least, the DEFY Skyline 36 mm marks the start of a new, smaller DEFY Skyline selection. Furthermore, it invites an range of new dial options, including a sporty blue dial or eye-catching green or pink alternatives. While fans of the brand will recognise the metallic blue tone from 41 mm models, the latter two colours are entirely new to the DEFY Skyline collection. Once again, the dials also feature the small four-point star motif as well as a subtly integrated date window. Alongside the classic models with their distinctive faceted cases, Zenith are also offering additional versions that add a touch of glamour with their brilliant-cut white diamond-set bezels.
The DEFY Skyline 36 mm timepieces are powered by the Elite 670 automatic manufacture movement, which has a 50-hour power reserve. The movement showcases sleek and contemporary finishing, with a rotor in the shape of an open star. Owners of the new watch can opt for the classic steel bracelet or a starry sky-patterned rubber strap. Starting price: 8,400 CHF.
