An Architectural Design Of Motion And Illumination: The Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton

The Defy Skyline attains an unprecedented standard of technical and aesthetic allure with its inaugural openworked tourbillon.

Zenith

This week, Zenith unveiled the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton, in addition to the monochrome Chronograph in Black Ceramic and the Skeleton Black Ceramic & Gold, which introduced a combination of black ceramic and gold-toned mechanisms to the Skyline collection. This influential new reference elevated the collection's architectural design language to the domain of high luxury and complexity. The Defy Skyline is Zenith's contemporary interpretation of the integrated sports watch, characterised by its angular design, precision, and foundation in the brand's proficiency in high-frequency movements. This newest model is the inaugural tourbillon skeleton in the Skyline collection, merging structural clarity with the dynamic energy of the El Primero 3630 SK calibre.

The 41mm case, with 100m water resistance and constructed entirely from 18k rose gold, perpetuates the Skyline's geometric aesthetic with its dodecagonal bezel and faceted surfaces. The casing features alternating satin-brushed and polished finishes along its edges, presenting a sturdy yet sophisticated appearance.

Zenith

The skeletonised design reveals the mechanism, with a blue PVD-coated mainplate and bridges positioned around the centre tourbillon opening. The design preserves the Skyline's four-pointed star configuration, enhanced into a three-dimensional structure for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Rhodium-plated chamfers accentuate the edges of each component, while gold-plated, faceted hour markers and hands treated with Super-LumiNova SLN C1 guarantee visibility against the vivid blue background.

The Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton is driven by the El Primero 3630 SK, an automated, high-frequency movement functioning at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz). The calibre includes a one-minute tourbillon located at 6 o’clock, consisting of 56 components, and is observable through the sapphire crystal on both the front and back. The skeletonised barrel exposes the mainspring in operation. The power reserve is 50 hours. The finishing features blue PVD-treated surfaces, rhodium-plated bevels, and a solid gold oscillating weight adorned with satin-brushed finishing. The timepiece features Zenith's rapid strap-change mechanism seamlessly incorporated into the casing. Two alternatives are available: a solid rose gold bracelet featuring a coordinating folding clasp and a blue rubber strap embossed with Zenith’s star motif, also fitted with a gold clasp.

Zenith

The Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton is restricted to 50 units and can be purchased at Zenith boutiques, licensed merchants, and online, at a price of CHF 91,900, EUR 102,800, or USD 103,700. Explore more at Zenith-Watches.com.