ReviewA Split-Second Stunner: Presenting The New Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Trio
The new Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph impresses with its high frequency El Primero 3600 movement that ensures 1/10th of a second function, and choice of dials in black, blue, and silver
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Zenith introduced a new Chronograph version to their Defy Skyline series at the Watches and Wonders 2024, which demonstrated the brand’s longstanding knack for crafting high-performance chronograph watches. The Defy Skyline Chronograph is housed in a 42mm stainless steel case, giving it a subtle, versatile vibe that can handle any occasion. But the real star is Zenith’s latest take on their legendary El Primero automatic high-frequency chronograph movement, complete with a 1/10th-of-a-second chronograph function. Another highlight is the chronograph’s integrated quick strap-change mechanism, fitted directly into the case, which lets you quickly swap styles without the requirement of external tools. The watch’s geometric, faceted case is a modern spin on the original Defy’s octagonal design with a multi-sided bezel.
Precision Perfection: The Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph
The Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph features a 42mm stainless steel case with a modernised octagonal shape, which borrows much from the history of the iconic Defy, only to become even more refined, robust, and reliable. The pushers of the Defy Skyline Chronograph trace the case’s sharp lines, and the screw-down crown with Zenith’s star keeps things watertight up to 100m; a fine example of form and function.
Despite being a chronograph watch, the Defy Skyline Chronograph offers an option to choose from dials in metallic black, blue, and silver, displayed with an attractive sunray pattern. This dial appears uncluttered, and manages to be aesthetically impressive, courtesy the collection’s signature starry sky pattern with the traditional El Primero dial layout. It’s three slightly oversized, overlapping sub-dials handle the elapsed seconds and minutes of the chronograph, not to mention the constant running seconds. The dial also features hour markers, which are rhodium-plated, faceted, and coated with Super-LumiNova for easy timekeeping in dark conditions. Its date window appears at 4.30 and matches the dial colour, while the 12-facet flange ring with a 1/10th-of-a-second scale follows the lines and angles of the dodecagonal bezel, which also acts as an extension for the hour markers.
The Defy Skyline Chronograph is an honest representation of Zenith’s commitment to meticulous and practical designs. Evident in one of its noteworthy features, the watch comes equipped with an integrated quick strap-change mechanism. A gentle push of a button and you are ready to swap the three-link steel bracelet with a star-patterned rubber strap with steel folding buckle, included with the watch. The black and blue dials are paired with matching rubber straps, while the silver dial finds its contrast in a green rubber strap.
The Legendary El Primero Movement
Following in the footsteps of the time-and-date Defy Skyline watches and the Defy Skyline Skeleton iterations, this chronograph variant also features Zenith’s renowned 1/10th of a second function. The mechanical chrono finds its immense power in the El Primero 3600 calibre visible through the caseback, which operates at 36,000vph with its open, star-shaped oscillating weight with bidirectional winding that provided a 60-hour power reserve. This automatic movement keeps things running precisely, with hours, minutes, date, and the stop-second function.
Read more about the first El Primero chronograph watches
First introduced three years ago, the Defy Skyline series is a reflection of life in the fast lane, where even the fraction of a second matters. The collection has evolved with diverse references since the beginning of this chapter, so a chronograph version was a natural addition, rounding out the lineup for greater versatility. Zenith’s new Chronograph blends the line’s vintage DNA with modern design and innovations, elevating the 1/10th-second function that defines the series. This latest Defy Skyline watch showcases Zenith’s mechanical mastery, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.
The Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph In A Nutshell
- Case: 42mm, steel
- Glass and caseback: Sapphire crystal
- Water resistance: 100m
- Dial: Sunray-patterened, in blue or black
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, 1/10th-of-a-second chronograph
- Movement: El Primero 3600; 60-hour power reserve
- Strap: Integrated steel or rubber strap
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a chronograph?
A chronograph is a watchmaking complication which offers stopwatch functions. Chronographs are found in mechanical and quartz movements. They can be as basic as the regular variety that has 30-minute and 12-hour counters, or they can be advanced, with the ability to measure even 100th-of-a-second.
- What is the El Primero movement?
In 1969, Zenith became the manufacturers to come out with the world’s first integrated, high-frequency, automatic chronograph movement. This was the El Primero, which gave birth to an entire family of movements from the maison. The brand have continued to develop and improve their El Primero chronograph calibres, which now include versions capable of measuring down to 100th of a second.
- What is an integrated bracelet?
A bracelet or strap that is contructed in a manner, which makes it appear as though it seamlessly flows from the case is considered as integrated. This is a style seen most commonly in integrated metallic sport watches, such as the Zenith Defy, the Tissot PRX or the Patek Philippe Nautilus.
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