Zenith DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition

Zenith has once again pushed the boundaries of horological innovation with the release of the DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition. This exceptional timepiece seamlessly blends the rich heritage of the brand with the vibrant spirit of Dubai, resulting in a watch that is both technically impressive and aesthetically captivating. Let's delve into the history of Zenith and the DEFY collection to understand the foundation upon which this remarkable watch is built.

Zenith's story began in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, when Georges Favre-Jacot, a visionary watchmaker, revolutionized the art of watchmaking by bringing all watchmaking crafts under one roof. This innovative approach fostered collaboration and precision, setting the stage for Zenith's future triumphs. The brand quickly gained recognition for its exceptional chronographs and movements, earning numerous awards and accolades. In 1969, Zenith made history with the introduction of the El Primero chronograph movement, a groundbreaking creation that remains an icon in the watchmaking world. The El Primero, meaning "the first" in Esperanto, was the world's first automatic chronograph movement, capable of measuring time intervals to an unprecedented 1/10th of a second. This high-frequency movement, beating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, set a new standard for accuracy and precision.



The DEFY collection, first introduced in the 1960s, has become synonymous with Zenith's bold and avant-garde approach to watchmaking. The collection's name itself speaks to its spirit of challenging conventions and pushing the limits of horological design. DEFY watches are characterized by their robust construction, innovative materials, and cutting-edge movements. They are designed for those who appreciate exceptional timekeeping performance and unconventional aesthetics. Over the years, the DEFY collection has evolved, incorporating new technologies and design elements while staying true to its core principles of innovation and boldness. The DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is the latest chapter in this ongoing story, a testament to Zenith's commitment to creating timepieces that capture the essence of their time.

The DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is a limited-edition release of just 100 pieces, available exclusively at Zenith boutiques in Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. This exclusivity adds to the watch's allure, making it a true collector's item. The watch is housed in a 41mm stainless steel case with an octagonal bezel, a design element that has become a signature of the DEFY collection. The case's angular lines and sharp edges give it a modern and dynamic look, while the polished finish adds a touch of refinement. The crown is screw-down, ensuring water resistance to a depth of 100 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear and various activities.



The dial of the DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is a work of art in itself. The sand-toned sunray pattern evokes the vast deserts of the Middle East, while the salmon-orange hue captures the beauty of Dubai's sunsets. The dial's color shifts subtly in different lighting conditions, creating a mesmerizing effect that draws the eye. The Hindu-Arabic numerals, a nod to the region's rich cultural heritage, add a unique touch to the dial's design. The hands are rhodium-plated and faceted, ensuring excellent legibility against the dial's intricate pattern. The central seconds hand features a star-shaped counterweight, a subtle yet distinctive detail that adds a touch of whimsy.

The DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition comes with two interchangeable straps: a stainless steel bracelet and a black patterned rubber strap. The steel bracelet is a perfect match for the watch's sporty character, while the rubber strap offers a more casual and comfortable option. The bracelet features a folding clasp with a micro-adjustment system, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist.



The Zenith DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is more than just a beautiful face; it's a powerhouse of horological engineering. The watch is driven by the El Primero 3620 automatic movement, a descendant of the legendary El Primero chronograph that made history in 1969 as the world's first automatic chronograph. This movement beats at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5Hz), providing exceptional accuracy and a power reserve of approximately 60 hours. The high-frequency movement allows for the 1/10th of a second indication, a feature that sets the DEFY Skyline apart from other watches in its category. This function is displayed on a subdial at 9 o'clock, with a hand making one full rotation every 10 seconds. It's a mesmerizing display of precision and a testament to Zenith's commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.

Turning the watch over, the sapphire crystal case back reveals the intricate beauty of the El Primero 3620 movement. The oscillating weight is adorned with a Côtes de Genève pattern, a decorative finish that adds a touch of refinement. The movement's components are meticulously finished, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship that goes into each Zenith timepiece. Even the most discerning watch enthusiast will appreciate the level of detail and care evident in the movement's construction and decoration.



The DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is designed to be a versatile timepiece, suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions. The 41mm stainless steel case strikes a balance between robustness and elegance, making it comfortable on a variety of wrist sizes. The octagonal bezel, a signature element of the DEFY collection, adds a distinctive touch to the watch's profile. The case's alternating brushed and polished finishes create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, enhancing its visual appeal.

Zenith has paid close attention to the details, ensuring that every aspect of the DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is executed to the highest standards. The crown is screw-down, providing added security and water resistance to 10 ATM (100 meters). The push-buttons for the chronograph functions are integrated seamlessly into the case design, maintaining a clean and streamlined aesthetic. The watch comes with two interchangeable straps: a stainless steel bracelet and a black rubber strap with a starry sky pattern. The bracelet is crafted from high-quality stainless steel and features a folding clasp with a micro-adjustment system for a perfect fit. The rubber strap offers a sportier option and is ideal for active wear. The quick-change mechanism allows for effortless swapping of the straps without the need for tools, giving the wearer the freedom to personalize their watch to suit their style and occasion.



This limited edition timepiece is an investment in a piece of horological history, a watch that will undoubtedly be treasured for generations to come. The Zenith DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is a testament to the brand's ability to innovate while staying true to its rich heritage. It's a watch that embodies the spirit of Dubai, a city where tradition and modernity converge to create something truly extraordinary. With its captivating design, exceptional performance, and limited availability, the DEFY Skyline Dubai Edition is a must-have for any discerning watch enthusiast.