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New Release: Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition Watch

Following several new Defy releases at the start of 2023 including the Defy Skyline Skeleton and the rose-gold Defy Boutique edition comes the launch of the Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition Watch.
Powered by the iconic El Primero movement, watch out for the glitzy new gold tinges on the dial with bags of contemporary design throughout.
The only skeleton watch on the planet to house a 1/10th of a second function, the third edition of the Defy Skyline Skeleton series takes inspiration from Zenith Defy watches dating back to the 1970s.
Aesthetics wise, modern cityscapes, buildings and the interplay of light dominate this new timepiece mixed with an iridescent grey, silver and gold colour scheme.

Why Is The El Primero Movement So Special?

Of course the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition gives a nod to its horological past due to its angular structure, sharp edges and sophisticated yet complex bezel. But it is the El Primero movement that literally defines this collection of watches. High-beat movements were unheard of in 1969 which still to this day is the most respected movement possibly of all time.

Is El Primero A Good Movement?

Source: Zenith

Absolutely time peeps. It’s a genuine one of a kind. Introduced in 1969, this automatic chronograph movement is renowned for its impeccable precision and first-rate accuracy. The El Primero is like the Muhammed Ali of automatic watch movements. Untouchable, highly respected and quite possibly unparalleled in its field.

Pulsating at 36,000Vph, it does perform 10 ticks every second for a smooth as silk sweep around the dial. Furthermore, the chronograph function can ensure the highest levels of timekeeping to 1/10th of a second. Forget the popular legendary calibre 9F Spring Drive movement from Grand Seiko. This is the real deal and still is.

Personality Of The DEFY Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition

Modernity and contemporary flashes of watchmaking brilliance can be seen throughout the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition. Designed to cope with the growing demands of a fast paced society where every second counts, this is reflected in the unique 1/10th of a second counter.

Source: Zenith

This conception has evolved and revitalised, new for 2023 with its defining Zenith watches emanating a multitude of elements that lean on its vintage past. On the other hand, there are a host of new elements such as the grey and silver accents that lend itself to a horological world of discovery, rarely seen in skeleton watches.

A faceted bezel with octagonal configuration and the four-point star design of former Zenith watches from the 1960s will most certainly satisfy the keenest of vintage watch fans - with a new horological twist. As for the dial, we do like the gold hues seen across the face giving it a little added dimension, luxury and sleekness. Take to the waters 10ATM (100M) of water resistance for a little water-skiing, jet-skiing or a gentle dip in that infinity pool.

The baton hour and hand markers are plated with gold while filled to the brim with Super-Luminova, ensuring first rate clarity. So where can you find the 1/10th of a second counter? At 6 o’ clock precisely which is continually. Unmatched as skeleton watches go, this timepiece is hardy, durable and somewhat angular emanating from the steel case. However, the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition is as edgy as one of Boris Johnson’s Parliamentary statements.

Source: Zenith

Measuring 41mm, it is made from stainless steel and features a dozen individual sides to give it a real modern architectural vibe. David Chipperfield need not apply! The screw down crown and brand emblem in the form of a star round off a glittery number that’s fit for any wrist.

Ready to perform at the drop of a horological hat, the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition is suited and booted for casual Fridays in the office games room, an elegant black tie affair or strolling down the streets of St. Tropez. Now try saying that ten times when you buy a Zenith to celebrate that big promotion. Pair it with camel chinos or a similar toned jacket for that uber cool demure that will make you the envy of many fashionistas.

Source: Zenith

The colour scheme is very much reminiscent of the Defy Skyline Boutique edition with hints of silver and grey on the dial. Mind you, we do like the more openworked face allowing hungry horophiles to salivate over the skeletonized dial. And what about the straps? We haven’t forgotten Timelords! The interchangeable strap system on the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition will not let you down either.

Available in a classic steel bracelet or rubber strap complete with a starry sky pattern, switch effortlessly between both in the time it takes the counter to turn one revolution every ten seconds.

El Primero 3620 SK Movement

El Primero 3620 SK movement, Source: Zenith

The driving force behind the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition is the El Primero 3620 SK automatic movement. Waiting inside with baited breath is the unique 1/10th of a second function and a stop second element for pristine accuracy.

Offering a power reserve of 60 hours, 26 jewels and 163 components, this movement beats away at a not too shabby 5Hz (36,000 VpH). The transparent openworked dial is a joy to behold, really lifting this new beauty to an even greater Zenith. Highly efficient and decorated in rhodium grey, this movement enjoys a bi-directional rotor with a star logo that has a power reserve of around 55 hours.

How Much Does A Zenith DEFY Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition Cost?

Available to purchase through Zenith stores and online boutiques globally, enthusiasts can buy a Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition for £9,700 RRP - at the time of writing.

What’s Our View?

As a luxury sports novelty, the new Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Boutique Edition ticks most of the horological boxes. On the performance, it is off the chart thanks to the infamous El Primero movement that takes accuracy to the highest possible form. Setting the benchmark on modern watches, this Swiss brand has pulled the cat out of the timekeeping bag with this release for sure.

And if you want to go limited luxury, how about the DEFY Extreme E Limited Edition? Marking the 2023 Extreme E electric rally racing championship, enjoy carbon fibre, 50 hour power reserve, green accents on the skeleton dial and a strap made from recycled tyres…all for £26,600 RRP - at the time of writing

Whatever next... A timepiece made from reused coffee grounds?

Conclusion

Behind every good watch, there’s an even greater watchmaker. And Zenith are that brand. Crafted to perfection, they have set the timekeeping bar extremely high again in their continual quest for groundbreaking watches.

With a hint of futurism, a sprinkling of style and a dash of glamour, they have the perfect recipe that Gordon Ramsay would be envious of (Despite the fact he has a collection of sexy Rolex watches like the cream dial Rolex Explorer II Ref.16550 and the discontinued Rolex Submariner Ref. 116619.) To the trained horophile's eye, this is better known as “The Smurf”.

We knew you had great taste Gordy.

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