Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic & Gold

Zenith expands its modern Defy collection with a dramatic new expression of architectural watchmaking: the Defy Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic & Gold. Unveiled at LVMH Watch Week 2026 in Milan, this new reference fuses cutting-edge materials with high-frequency horology, blending the stealthy matte elegance of black ceramic with the warmth of gold-toned skeletonised mechanics. Evolved from the original 1969 Defy design language, and centred around the dynamic El Primero 3620 SK calibre, this edition pushes the Skyline’s aesthetic and technical ambitions to new heights.
The Defy Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic & Gold is housed in a 41mm case constructed entirely from black ceramic. Its angular architecture retains the signature dodecagonal bezel and faceted surfaces, with alternating brushed and polished finishing that accentuates the sharply defined geometry. The full-ceramic build ensures exceptional scratch resistance, low weight, and enduring colour depth. The case measures approximately 11.6mm in height and wears compact for its size due to the integrated bracelet system.A flat sapphire crystal caseback offers an unobstructed view of the skeletonised El Primero movement. The back reveals the full scope of the openworked structure, including the star-shaped oscillating weight with its satin-brushed finishing. The movement is framed by a dark ceramic rim, which maintains visual continuity with the rest of the watch.The watch is fitted with a black ceramic crown featuring fine knurling for easy grip. It is flanked by sloping crown guards that flow from the angular case geometry. A flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial. Water‑resistance can reach up to 100 meters (330 feet).
The dial is an intricate openworked composition, where the four-pointed star motif of the Defy Skyline becomes a three-dimensional lattice supporting the movement. Unlike more traditional skeleton dials, this version embraces negative space while still emphasizing symmetry and legibility. The bridges and mainplate are treated with a warm gold-toned PVD finish, contrasting against the deep black ceramic case.The hour and minute hands are faceted, gold-plated, and coated with Super-LumiNova SLN C1. Matching gold-plated indices are applied directly to the movement’s skeleton frame, creating a floating visual effect. The applied Zenith star logo is integrated seamlessly into the upper structure.Finishing details include rhodium-plated chamfers on the bridges and sharp inner angles that catch the light as the wrist moves. At 6 o’clock, the standout 1/10th of a second indicator completes a full rotation every 10 seconds, which is powered directly by the high-frequency 5Hz escapement. Lume on both the hands and indices ensures excellent nighttime visibility.

The “Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic & Gold” (Ref#: 49.9300.3620/07.I001) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber El Primero 3620 SK with 26 jewels and 36,000 vph. It comes equipped with a silicon escape wheel and lever, as well as a 1/10th of a second counter directly driven by the escapement. Power reserve can last up to 55 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on this watch is a fully integrated black ceramic bracelet, secured by a double folding clasp. The solid black bracelet visually anchors the high-contrast dial and adds a sleek, monolithic character to the overall design. For versatility, an additional black patterned rubber strap is included, equipped with a stainless-steel folding clasp and a quick-release system for easy interchangeability. On the wrist, the watch wears light and balanced, with the warm inner tones of the movement providing dynamic contrast to the ceramic’s stealthy exterior.
For more up to date information visit the official Zenith website here.