Swiss watchmaker Zenith has unveiled a captivating addition to its esteemed DEFY Skyline collection. The latest timepieces, available exclusively at Zenith boutiques, introduce an invigorating ice-blue color palette to the brand’s lineup. This innovative use of color demonstrates Zenith’s capacity to balance classic craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. The DEFY Skyline Ice Blue Boutique Edition watches are available in two sizes, 41mm, and 36mm, and the 36mm version is also offered with a diamond-studded bezel.
Zenith’s DEFY Collection: A Look at the Past
Zenith’s DEFY collection has a rich history, dating back to 1902. The brand originally introduced a robust line of pocket watches known as Defi. However, it was in 1969 that the DEFY collection truly made a name for itself. Zenith released the world’s first high-frequency chronograph movement, the El Primero, overshadowing the launch of another model called the Defy. The striking design of the Defy, featuring an octagonal water-resistant case, a 14-sided bezel, and a patented shock-absorbing system, set a new standard in the luxury sports watch segment. It’s worth noting that the Defy made its debut three years before the iconic Royal Oak model.
The DEFY collection underwent a revival in 2022, with the introduction of the Defy Revival 3642 and the Defy Skyline collection. The latter serves as a modern reinterpretation of Zenith’s 1969 Defy model, boasting a sleeker, more contemporary design while maintaining the collection’s distinctive angular architecture.
Introducing the DEFY Skyline Ice Blue Boutique Edition Watches
The DEFY Skyline Ice Blue Boutique Edition watches feature the characteristic dodecagonal bezel, directly inspired by the original 1969 Defy model. The watches are encased in stainless steel and are water-resistant up to 100 meters. The sunray-brushed ice blue dials are adorned with Zenith’s signature four-pointed star pattern, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness to each timepiece.
The standout feature of these new models is undoubtedly the vibrant ice-blue dial. The dial is etched with a grid pattern of four-pointed stars, reminiscent of Zenith’s brand logo. This intricate design, combined with the metallic sunray base, creates a dynamic and captivating visual effect.
All three models feature a flange with black minute markings and a date window at the 3 o’clock position. In alignment with the overall color scheme, the background of the date window matches the dial’s icy blue hue. Other common characteristics include the applied silver Zenith star logo at the 12 o’clock position, ruthenium-plated rectangular indices with Super-LumiNova, and luminescent baton-shaped hands.
Exploring the Defy Skyline 41 mm Model
The 41mm Defy Skyline model stands out from the 36mm models, thanks to the small seconds sub-dial located at the 9 o’clock position on the dial. However, this isn’t a traditional small seconds counter. With the high-frequency El Primero movement powering the watch, the sub-dial tracks 1/10th of a second, making a full rotation every 10 seconds. Although this feature may not be the easiest to read, it is a clear indication of the robust movement beneath the dial.
The El Primero 3620 automatic high-frequency movement, visible through the case back, powers the 41mm model. This movement, based on the original El Primero but without the chronograph functions, operates at a frequency of 5 Hz, or 36,000 vibrations per hour. It provides a power reserve of 60 hours, thanks to the fuel-efficient, star-shaped rotor. Furthermore, the movement is equipped with a stop-seconds mechanism for precise time-setting.
Diving into the Defy Skyline 36mm Models
The smaller 36 mm Defy Skyline models are perfect unisex options. Available with either a plain bezel or a bezel set with 52 icy white brilliant-cut diamonds, these models offer a touch of elegance and sparkle. Unlike the 41mm model, the 36 mm watches don’t feature a small seconds counter. Instead, the seconds are indicated by a central seconds hand with an openworked star-shaped counterweight.
The 36 mm models are powered by Zenith’s in-house Elite 670 automatic caliber, also found in the Defy Revival series. Developed by Zenith in 1990 and presented in 1994, the Elite 670 was designed as an ultra-thin caliber with a height of just 3.47mm. It operates at a frequency of 4Hz and delivers a power reserve of 50 hours. The movement, decorated with a sleek grey finish, is visible through the case back and is adorned with an openworked, satin-brushed star-shaped rotor.
Pricing and Availability
The Defy Skyline 41mm model is exclusively available at Zenith’s online boutique and is priced at CHF 8,900. The 36 mm models, on the other hand, can be purchased both in stores and at Zenith’s online boutique. They retail for CHF 8,400 without diamonds and CHF 11,900 with diamonds.
These models are not limited editions and form part of Zenith’s regular Defy Skyline collection. For more information or to purchase one of these stunning timepieces, visit zenith-watches.com.
Zenith’s New Strap Service
In addition to the new DEFY Skyline Ice Blue Boutique Edition watches, Zenith has also announced an extended strap service on its online boutiques. This service, currently available in Europe, will be expanded to North America and Japan in September. It allows customers to browse and purchase a selection of compatible straps for their Zenith watches.
Conclusion
Zenith’s DEFY Skyline Ice Blue Boutique Edition watches are a testament to the brand’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements. The unique ice-blue dials, high-performance movements, and choice of sizes make these watches a desirable addition to any watch collection. Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or a newbie in the world of horology, these Zenith timepieces are sure to win you over with their refreshing design and superior functionality.
