During the 2025 LVMH Watch Week, Zenith has expanded its DEFY Skyline collection with the introduction of the DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton. This striking new release showcases a bold openwork design, enabling enthusiasts to admire the technical mastery of Zenith’s legendary El Primero 3600SK movement.
Revolutionizing Skeletonization: Art Meets Functionality
The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton brings Zenith’s signature approach to skeletonization into the spotlight. This technique involves hollowing out components such as plates and bridges to reveal the movement’s intricate inner workings. The architectural skeletonized dial enhances visibility without compromising legibility, making it both a functional and artistic achievement.
Inspired by Zenith’s 1960s DEFY models, the 42mm stainless steel case is angular and modern, topped with a 12-facet bezel. The dynamic interplay of brushed and polished surfaces creates a visually engaging design. For added versatility, the watch includes an interchangeable strap system, allowing for seamless switching between a steel bracelet and a matching rubber strap.
The El Primero 3600SK: Precision at its Core
At the heart of the DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton lies the El Primero 3600SK, a skeletonized evolution of Zenith’s iconic El Primero chronograph movement. Introduced in 2019 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original El Primero, this high-frequency movement pushes the boundaries of precision.
- 1/10th of a Second Precision: The central chronograph hand completes one full rotation every 10 seconds, offering unparalleled readability of fractions of a second.
- 5Hz Frequency: Operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, the movement ensures high accuracy and smooth operation.
- Power Reserve: A bi-directional automatic winding system delivers approximately 60 hours of power reserve.
Visible through the sapphire case back, the star-shaped oscillating weight, main plate, and bridges are available in either blue or black, depending on the model.
Bold Design with Practical Details
The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton combines bold aesthetics with practical features:
- Water Resistance: With a rating of 10 ATM (100 meters), the watch is built for everyday durability.
- Super-LumiNova Coating: The rhodium-plated, faceted hands and markers are treated with SLN C1, providing exceptional visibility in low-light conditions.
- Dial Configuration: Three openworked subdials—60-minute at 6 o’clock, 60-second at 3 o’clock, and small seconds at 9 o’clock—offer precise and intuitive chronograph functionality.
Each piece includes a second strap with a star-patterned rubber design, seamlessly integrating with the quick-swap strap system.
Available Variants and Technical Specifications
The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton is offered in two distinct colorways:
Black-Toned Version
- Reference: 03.9500.3600/78.I001
- Dial: Black openworked
- Bracelets: Stainless steel bracelet with a black rubber strap
- Price: 14,900 CHF / 15,500 USD
Blue-Toned Version
- Reference: 03.9500.3600/79.I001
- Dial: Blue openworked
- Bracelets: Stainless steel bracelet with a blue rubber strap
- Price: 14,900 CHF / 15,500 USD
Redefining Luxury Sports Watches
The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton exemplifies Zenith’s ethos of combining innovation and style. Its edgy design, coupled with the unmatched precision of the El Primero movement, makes it a standout addition to Zenith’s collection. With a history of pushing horological boundaries since 1865, Zenith continues to inspire by blending technical mastery with modern aesthetics.
Exclusivity and Availability
The DEFY Skyline Chronograph Skeleton is available exclusively through Zenith boutiques, both physical and online, as well as authorized retailers worldwide.
For more details, visit Zenith’s official website.
