Introducing: The Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton

Some watches are so perfectly on-brand that you have to look twice to see if they’re actually new. I had this experience with this Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton. Between the regular Defy Skyline Chronograph and several Defy Extreme and Defy skeleton versions, this looks comfortably familiar. Still, this watch is indeed new. So let’s look closer at this addition to the Skyline collection.

You can have your pick of a black-dial version or a blue-dial variant. Both come with a stainless steel bracelet and a fitted rubber strap. Zenith priced them at CHF 14,900 / US$15,500.

Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton specs

Let’s start with the basics. Under the hood, these two additions share their specs with the regular Defy Skyline Chronograph. This means you get a 42mm stainless steel case with a manageable 12.7mm thickness. You also get a screw-down crown, sapphire up top and in the case back, and a 100m water resistance rating.

Inside ticks caliber El Primero 3600SK. This version of the iconic automatic chronograph movement ticks at a speedy 36,000 beats per hour. This allows the chronograph to display 1/10th of a second. The central chronograph seconds hand also makes 10-second rounds rather than the normal 60-second rounds. Zenith specifies its power reserve at a healthy 60 hours.

The integrated bracelet comes off with a push of a button, allowing easy switching with the rubber strap. The rubber straps match the chosen dial color for a cohesive look.

The Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton’s new dial

Not all skeletonized watches are created equal. Some reduce the material to the point of allowing the wearer to count his/her wrist hairs through the dial. Others maintain a denser, more closed aesthetic. The Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton follows the latter recipe. And that’s a good thing if you ask me. I think such skeleton watches tend to look better on the wrist.

In any case, we see the familiar motif, cutting the dial into four sections. For the Zenith connoisseurs out there, you will recognize the old square Zenith logo in that shape. I like a subtle nod to a brand’s history like that. It links the present to the past without being too on the nose. The lower level of the dial receives a black or blue lacquer. The sub-dials also received a skeletonization job, but they’re executed in a contrasting light silver.

Interestingly, the colored parts extend below the dial. The movement plates receive a matching finish, adding depth to the watch’s appearance and unifying the dial and caliber beneath.

Initial impressions

As alluded to in the opening paragraph, this watch feels very familiar. I mean this in a good way. To me, the Defy collection offers a neat alternative within the genre of integrated-bracelet sports watches with a clear face of its own. The watch’s identity remains even if you skeletonize most of that face.

I have tried the Defy Skyline Chronograph in its fully dressed guise before, and it is a bit much for me. These watches are not subtle or under the radar, offering massive wrist presence in a bulky package. Then again, I assume this is precisely what you are looking for if you are considering these. They give off a very bold, techy appearance. They suit Tony Stark more than they would James Bond.

Still, I have always been impressed when handling any of the Zenith Defy models. The solid construction, modern aesthetic, and high-end finishing combine to make a very attractive package. You will just have to answer one question: is this your version? For me, that answer is “no.” I would take a white ceramic or titanium time-only skeletonized version instead. But isn’t variety the spice of life?

What do you think of the new Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeleton? Let us know in the comments below!