Zenith DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic

In the heart of Le Locle, Switzerland, a cradle of horological mastery, Zenith has been crafting exceptional timepieces since 1865. Founded by Georges Favre-Jacot, a visionary watchmaker, Zenith quickly established a reputation for precision and innovation. Favre-Jacot's pioneering approach to watchmaking, which emphasized efficiency and standardization, led to the development of groundbreaking movements like the El Primero chronograph caliber, a high-frequency marvel introduced in 1969.

The El Primero, with its ability to measure time intervals to the nearest tenth of a second, became a cornerstone of Zenith's legacy. Its exceptional accuracy and reliability set new standards for chronograph movements, and it remains a testament to Zenith's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological engineering.



The DEFY collection, launched in 1969, represents Zenith's bold and adventurous spirit. With its rugged construction, avant-garde designs, and cutting-edge technology, the DEFY line has consistently captivated watch enthusiasts who seek timepieces that transcend conventional boundaries.

In 2022, Zenith introduced the DEFY Skyline, a contemporary reinterpretation of the original DEFY model. The Skyline retained the DEFY's distinctive octagonal case shape and adventurous spirit but added a touch of modern elegance with its refined lines and sophisticated finishes. The collection quickly garnered acclaim for its versatility, blending sporty aesthetics with everyday wearability.

Building on the success of the DEFY Skyline, Zenith unveiled the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic in the summer of 2023. This striking timepiece represents a harmonious fusion of form and function, a watch that's as visually captivating as it is technically impressive.

The white ceramic case, with its polished and brushed surfaces, exudes a sense of refined luxury. Its 41mm diameter strikes a perfect balance between boldness and wearability, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The faceted bezel, a signature element of the DEFY Skyline, adds a touch of geometric intrigue, while the screw-down crown ensures water resistance to 100 meters, making it a reliable companion for aquatic adventures.



Through the sapphire crystal, the dial reveals the intricate skeletonized movement, a masterpiece of mechanical artistry. The bridges, meticulously finished in blue, form a mesmerizing star-shaped pattern that draws the eye into the heart of the watch. The rhodium-plated hands and hour markers, coated with SuperLuminova, ensure legibility in any lighting condition, while the small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock adds a touch of visual balance.

The El Primero 3620 SK automatic high-frequency caliber, visible through the exhibition case back, is the beating heart of the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic. This exceptional movement, derived from the legendary El Primero chronograph, operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), ensuring exceptional accuracy and smooth operation of the timekeeping functions. The skeletonization of the movement not only enhances its visual appeal but also reduces its weight, contributing to the watch's overall comfort on the wrist.

One of the most remarkable features of the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic is its 1/10th of a second indicator. This innovative complication, driven directly by the 5 Hz escapement, allows the wearer to measure elapsed time with unprecedented precision. The rapidly moving small seconds hand, which completes a full rotation in just 10 seconds, adds a dynamic element to the dial and serves as a constant reminder of the watch's exceptional capabilities.



The DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic is offered on a white ceramic bracelet, seamlessly integrated with the case for a cohesive look. The bracelet features a folding clasp with a quick strap-change mechanism, allowing the wearer to easily swap it for the included white patterned rubber strap. This versatility ensures that the watch can adapt to any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.

The El Primero, first introduced in 1969, revolutionized the watchmaking industry with its high-frequency escapement, beating at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz). This rapid oscillation not only ensures exceptional accuracy but also allows for the measurement of elapsed time to the nearest tenth of a second, a feat that was previously unheard of in mechanical watchmaking.

The El Primero 3620 SK caliber, while sharing the same DNA as its legendary predecessor, has been reimagined for the modern era. It features a skeletonized architecture that reveals the intricate inner workings of the movement, a visual spectacle that is both mesmerizing and educational. The bridges, meticulously finished in blue, create a striking contrast against the white ceramic case, while the rhodium-plated hands and hour markers, coated with SuperLuminova, ensure optimal legibility in any lighting condition.



One of the most captivating aspects of the El Primero 3620 SK caliber is its 1/10th of a second indicator. This innovative complication, driven directly by the 5 Hz escapement, allows the wearer to track elapsed time with remarkable precision. The small seconds hand, located at 6 o'clock, completes a full rotation every 10 seconds, providing a dynamic visual display of the watch's exceptional accuracy.

The use of white ceramic for the case and bracelet is a testament to Zenith's commitment to material innovation. Ceramic, known for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, ensures that the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic will retain its pristine appearance for years to come. Additionally, ceramic is hypoallergenic and lightweight, making it incredibly comfortable to wear.

The DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic is not only a technical marvel but also a visual feast. The open-worked dial, with its intricate star-shaped pattern, offers a glimpse into the heart of the watch, revealing the mesmerizing dance of gears and levers. The blue accents on the bridges and small seconds hand add a touch of color to the otherwise monochromatic design, creating a harmonious balance between boldness and sophistication.

Measuring 41mm in diameter, the case strikes the perfect balance between presence and wearability. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit on the wrist, while the 100-meter water resistance makes it suitable for a wide range of activities, from swimming to snorkeling.



With a retail price of $17,500, the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic is a significant investment, but one that is sure to reward its owner with years of enjoyment. It is a watch that seamlessly blends technical prowess, innovative design, and luxurious materials, resulting in a timepiece that is as much a work of art as it is a tool for measuring time.

The DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic is a testament to Zenith's rich heritage and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation. It is a watch that is sure to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike with its exceptional craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and striking aesthetic. Whether you're a seasoned watch aficionado or a newcomer to the world of horology, the DEFY Skyline Skeleton White Ceramic is a timepiece that is sure to leave a lasting impression.