Zenith DEFY Skyline Susan G Komen

The watch industry has always been intertwined with causes close to the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. It's a realm where intricate mechanisms and striking aesthetics often converge to support something larger than themselves. This year, Zenith, a name synonymous with precision and innovation in the world of haute horlogerie, has once again stepped forward with a timepiece that embodies both technical prowess and a profound commitment to social responsibility. The DEFY Skyline Pink Edition, limited to just 100 pieces, is a beacon of hope, meticulously crafted to raise awareness and funds for the fight against breast cancer in partnership with Susan G. Komen®.



To truly appreciate the significance of this release, we must first delve into the legacies of the two entities involved. Zenith, founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot, has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking. From the legendary El Primero movement, the first integrated automatic chronograph caliber, to its pioneering forays into high-frequency movements, Zenith has consistently demonstrated a relentless pursuit of accuracy and technical mastery. This dedication to innovation is mirrored in the DEFY collection, first introduced in the late 1960s, which has become a symbol of Zenith's avant-garde spirit and its ability to blend robust performance with striking design.



Susan G. Komen®, on the other hand, represents a tireless commitment to a cause that affects millions worldwide. Established in 1982, the organization has been a driving force in the fight against breast cancer, funding research, providing support services to patients, and advocating for policies that promote early detection and treatment. The foundation's unwavering dedication to eradicating this disease has made it a global leader in breast cancer advocacy and support.



The DEFY Skyline collection, launched in 2022, quickly gained recognition for its modern interpretation of Zenith's iconic octagonal case design and its exceptional mechanical pedigree. Characterized by its angular, faceted bezel and integrated bracelet, the Skyline exudes a contemporary aesthetic that resonates with today's watch enthusiasts. The collection's signature element, however, lies within its intricate dial, often featuring a captivating "starry sky" pattern inspired by the Zenith double Z logo. This motif, subtly engraved across the dial's surface, adds a layer of visual depth and complexity, capturing the essence of Zenith's celestial namesake.



The DEFY Skyline Pink Edition takes this captivating design language and infuses it with a powerful message of hope and solidarity. The 41mm stainless steel case, with its sharply defined edges and polished surfaces, provides a robust yet refined foundation for the watch. The pink dial, a vibrant symbol of breast cancer awareness, is executed with a mesmerizing sunburst finish that shimmers and changes intensity depending on the angle of light. The engraved "starry sky" pattern, a hallmark of the Skyline collection, adds a subtle texture and depth to the dial, creating a captivating interplay of light and shadow.



A watch collector encountering the DEFY Skyline Pink Edition would likely be drawn in by its unique blend of technical sophistication and symbolic representation. The first impression would undoubtedly be the striking pink dial, a bold departure from traditional watchmaking aesthetics. The subtle nuances of the sunburst finish, the way it captures and reflects light, would invite closer inspection. The engraved "starry sky" pattern, almost imperceptible at first glance, would gradually reveal itself, adding a layer of intricate detail that speaks to Zenith's meticulous craftsmanship.



The collector's gaze would then likely shift to the angular case, with its faceted bezel and integrated bracelet. The interplay of brushed and polished surfaces, the seamless transition from case to bracelet, would convey a sense of refined robustness. The overall impression would be one of a timepiece that is both modern and timeless, a watch that seamlessly blends contemporary design with traditional watchmaking values.



Beyond its visual appeal, the DEFY Skyline Pink Edition houses a mechanical marvel that underscores Zenith's commitment to technical excellence. The El Primero 3620 automatic movement, a direct descendant of the legendary El Primero caliber, beats at a high frequency of 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour), ensuring exceptional accuracy and precision. This movement, visible through the sapphire case back, showcases Zenith's mastery of haute horlogerie, with its meticulously finished components and intricate mechanics.



One of the most captivating features of the DEFY Skyline Pink Edition is its unique 1/10th of a second indicator, a testament to the movement's high frequency and Zenith's relentless pursuit of precision. Positioned at 9 o'clock on the dial, this indicator features a hand that completes a full rotation every 10 seconds, providing a mesmerizing visual representation of time's fleeting nature. This complication, a first in the watchmaking world, sets the DEFY Skyline apart, showcasing Zenith's ability to innovate while honoring its rich heritage.



At the heart of this exceptional watch beats the El Primero 3620 automatic movement, a testament to Zenith's unwavering dedication to precision timekeeping. This high-frequency caliber, operating at a rapid 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour), ensures remarkable accuracy and stability. The movement's intricate mechanics, visible through the sapphire case back, are a testament to Zenith's watchmaking prowess. Each component is meticulously finished, showcasing a level of craftsmanship that elevates the DEFY Skyline Pink Edition to the realm of haute horlogerie.



One of the most captivating aspects of this timepiece is its unique 1/10th of a second indicator, a feature rarely seen in mechanical watches. Positioned at 9 o'clock on the dial, this complication provides a mesmerizing display of time's fleeting nature. The indicator's hand completes a full rotation every 10 seconds, offering a dynamic visual representation of precision that sets the DEFY Skyline apart from its contemporaries. This groundbreaking feature is a direct result of the El Primero 3620's high-frequency escapement, a testament to Zenith's ability to innovate while honoring its rich heritage of precision timekeeping.



Encasing this mechanical marvel is a 41mm stainless steel case, a perfect embodiment of the DEFY collection's modern design language. The case's angular, faceted bezel and integrated bracelet create a striking silhouette that exudes contemporary sophistication. The interplay of brushed and polished surfaces adds a refined touch, while the case's robust construction ensures durability and water resistance up to 10 ATM.



The DEFY Skyline Pink Edition's dial is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. The vibrant pink hue, a symbol of hope and solidarity, is executed with a mesmerizing sunburst finish that shimmers and changes intensity depending on the angle of light. The engraved "starry sky" pattern, a hallmark of the Skyline collection, adds a subtle texture and depth to the dial, creating a captivating interplay of light and shadow. This intricate motif, inspired by the Zenith double Z logo, pays homage to the brand's rich history while adding a touch of visual complexity that invites closer inspection.



Complementing the watch's striking design is a versatile strap system that allows for effortless customization. The DEFY Skyline Pink Edition comes with both a stainless steel bracelet and a white rubber strap, each featuring a secure folding clasp. Zenith's ingenious quick strap-changing mechanism, integrated into the case back, enables the wearer to switch between the two options with ease, without the need for any tools. This thoughtful feature adds a practical dimension to the watch, allowing it to adapt seamlessly to various occasions and personal styles.



The DEFY Skyline Pink Edition, limited to just 100 pieces, is a testament to Zenith's commitment to both horological excellence and social responsibility. With a retail price of $10,300, this exceptional timepiece offers collectors and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a watch that embodies both technical sophistication and a profound dedication to a worthy cause. Twenty percent of the proceeds from the sale of each watch will be donated to Susan G. Komen®, supporting the organization's tireless efforts to eradicate breast cancer and provide support to those affected by the disease.



The Zenith DEFY Skyline Pink Edition is more than just a watch; it's a symbol of hope, a testament to human ingenuity, and a tribute to the unwavering spirit of those battling breast cancer. It's a timepiece that seamlessly blends technical prowess with a profound commitment to social responsibility, a watch that encapsulates the values of both Zenith and Susan G. Komen®. With its captivating aesthetics, exceptional mechanics, and dedication to a worthy cause, the DEFY Skyline Pink Edition stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collaboration in the pursuit of a better future.