Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton

Zenith elevates the Defy Skyline into the realm of high horology with its first-ever skeletonised tourbillon, uniting bold architectural design with the brand’s signature high-frequency movement. Presented in full 18k rose gold and limited to just 50 pieces, this striking new reference underscores the Defy Skyline’s evolution from avant-garde sports watch to a showcase of contemporary haute horlogerie.
The case of the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton measures 41mm in diameter and is crafted entirely from 18k rose gold, continuing the Skyline’s geometric aesthetic with sharp faceted surfaces and a signature dodecagonal bezel. Zenith alternates satin-brushed and polished finishing across the structure, enhancing the dynamic lines and solidifying the watch’s commanding presence.The reverse side reveals a sapphire crystal caseback offering a clear view of the El Primero 3630 SK calibre, including the one-minute tourbillon and the skeletonised barrel. The beveled bridges and oscillating weight are visually striking, showcasing Zenith’s modern finishing techniques in both material and geometry.Crowning the case is a rose-gold push-pull crown flanked by angular case flanks. The front sapphire crystal is treated with anti-reflective coating, allowing for distortion-free viewing of the openworked movement. Water‑resistance can reach up to 100 meters (330 feet).
The dial is a full architectural skeleton, built around a blue PVD-treated mainplate and bridges that extend the Skyline’s signature four-pointed star motif into a dramatic three-dimensional composition. The layout centers on the tourbillon aperture at 6 o’clock, drawing the eye into the kinetic motion of the regulating organ.Gold-plated, faceted indices are applied directly onto the skeleton structure and paired with solid gold hands treated with coloured varnish and filled with Super-LumiNova SLN C1 for visibility. Despite the complexity of the display, the central timekeeping remains easily readable against the deep blue and metallic contrast of the movement.The final layer of finishing includes rhodium-plated chamfers on all visible surfaces, enhancing depth and clarity under changing light conditions. Lume is applied to the hour and minute hands as well as the hour markers, balancing functional readability with technical spectacle.

The ‘Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton’ (Ref#: 18.9300.3630/78.I001) is powered by the in‑house self‑winding mechanical movement, caliber El Primero 3630 SK with 36,000 vph. It comes equipped with a one-minute tourbillon composed of 56 components, visible front and back. Power reserve can last up to 50 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on this watch is an integrated 18k rose gold bracelet with brushed and polished links, secured by a double folding clasp. Also included is a blue rubber strap embossed with Zenith’s star motif and fitted with a rose gold folding clasp. Both options attach via Zenith’s quick-change mechanism, offering seamless transitions between formal and casual configurations. The ergonomic integration and precious materials deliver both comfort and unmistakable wrist presence.Limited to just 50 pieces worldwide, the Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Skeleton represents the most exclusive expression of the collection to date. Available exclusively through Zenith boutiques, select authorised retailers, and online. For more up to date information visit the official Zenith website here.