The DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH is a fresh addition to ZENITH’s versatile line, showcasing the latest El Primero automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre with a 1/10th of a second chronograph function. Throughout the history of the defy collection, there has been a strong presence of El Primero chronographs dating back to the early 1970s. As a contemporary platform for an innovative calibre, the DEFY is a perfect match for the El Primero automatic chronograph, known for its high-frequency precision even in dynamic situations. Continuing the tradition of movement and performance, the new DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH represents over 50 years of pushing the boundaries of chronograph technology.
The DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH showcases a modernised 42mm steel case that combines architectural, geometric, and intricately faceted elements. This design pays homage to the octagonal case of the original DEFY, while introducing a more contemporary aesthetic and proportions. The pushers of the chronograph seamlessly follow the sharp lines of the case, and the screw-down crown, adorned with the star emblem, ensures a water-resistance of 100 meters (10ATM). The dial of the DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH is available in metallic black, blue, or silver, and features the collection’s signature starry sky-patterned dial with engraved four-pointed stars. It also incorporates the traditional El Primero dial configuration, with three slightly oversized and overlapping counters displaying the elapsed seconds, minutes of the chronograph, and constant running seconds.
The date window at 4:30, matching the dial’s colour, is another distinctive feature of the El Primero. The flange ring with a 1/10th of a second scale has twelve facets, mirroring the dodecagonal bezel and extending the hour markers. ZENITH maintains the 1/10th of a second function in the DEFY Skyline Chronograph, similar to the DEFY Skyline automatic model and its skeleton counterpart. This achievement is made possible by the El Primero 3600 calibre’s high-frequency rate of 5Hz (36’000 vibrations per hour), visible through the display back. The open star-shaped oscillating weight with bidirectional winding ensures a power reserve of 60 hours. A standout feature of the DEFY SKYLINE is its integrated quick strap-change mechanism within the case, allowing for easy versatility without the need for tools. By simply pressing a button, the three-link steel bracelet can be replaced with the star-patterned rubber strap with a steel folding buckle provided.
