Zenith Defy Skyline and Defy Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic Models

Swiss luxury watch brand Zenith presents new black ceramic version of the DEFY Skyline and DEFY Skyline Skeleton models.

The DEFY Skyline collection was introduced in 2022 as the modern successor to the ZENITH DEFY line of rugged and boldly designed wristwatches from 1969. Now the brand enhances this range by introducing new black ceramic editions of the DEFY Skyline and DEFY Skyline Skeleton watches. Even the integrated bracelet that follows the contours of the case is crafted in black ceramic.

ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic

A black patterned rubber strap with a blackened steel folding clasp is also included, and swapping between it and the ceramic bracelet is effortless using the quick strap-change mechanism integrated directly in the case back.

The DEFY Skyline Ceramic features a black galvanic dial with a sunray finish, shimmering as the light hits its surface. The entire dial features a geometric pattern, consisting of the ZENITH four-pointed stars that historically featured prominently on the case backs of vintage DEFY references as a “double Z”.

Evoking the starry night sky, the blackened star-shaped sunken into the dial feature sharp inward facets, with different angles catching light.

ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic

For the DEFY Skyline Skeleton Ceramic, the open dial features a blackened large central four-pointed star element, revealing the skeleton movement with black bridges and main plate.

ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic Skeleton

An exceptional feat, the Manufacture’s engineers successfully incorporated the shape of the open dial into the skeletonisation of the movement’s bridges and main plate, forming an integral whole. With its subtle contrast of dark tones, the visual depth is further enhanced in this unique skeleton watch with a 1/10th of a second indicator.

Both the DEFY Skyline Ceramic and DEFY Skyline Skeleton Ceramic feature faceted polished hands and applied indices filled with white Super-LumiNova for effortless readability – day and night.

Both references are powered by the El Primero 3620 automatic high-frequency manufacture movement, beating at the rate of 5Hz (36’000VpH), providing a 1/10th of a second indicator directly driven by the escapement. Its efficient automatic bi-directional winding mechanism with a blackened star-shaped rotor delivers a power reserve of approximately 60 hours.

ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic Skeleton

The DEFY Skyline and DEFY Skyline Skeleton are available from ZENITH physical and online boutiques, as well as authorized ZENITH retailers around the world.

Technical details

Model: ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic
Reference: 49.9300.3620/21.I001

Movement
El Primero 3620, Automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: Approx. 60 hours
Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings
Silicon escape-wheel and lever

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
1/10th of a second indication at 9 o’clock
Date indication at 3 o’clock

Case
Black Ceramic
Diameter: 41mm
Screwed-in crown
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Black-toned sunray-patterned
Starry sky pattern on the dial
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Black Ceramic bracelet and folding clasp
Comes with a black rubber strap with starry sky pattern and with a black PVD stainless buckle with folding clasp
Full Interchangeable strap system

Price
14,900 CHF

Model: ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic Skeleton
Reference: 49.9300.3620/78.I001

ZENITH Defy Skyline Black Ceramic Skeleton

Movement
El Primero 3620, Automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: Approx. 60 hours
Finishes: Special oscillating weight with satined finishings
Silicon escape-wheel and lever

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
1/10th of a second indication at 6 o’clock

Case
Black ceramic case
Diameter: 41mm
Screwed-in crown
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Open-worked
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Black Ceramic bracelet and folding clasp
Comes with a black rubber strap with starry sky pattern and with a black PVD stainless buckle with folding clasp
Full Interchangeable strap system

Price
16,900 CHF

Zenith Defy Extreme E 2023 Limited Edition

Ahead of Extreme E’s Hydro X Prix in Scotland, ZENITH unveils the DEFY Extreme E 2023 limited edition watch. Crafted entirely in carbon fibre and featuring Extreme E’s official “Vital Green” colour, this model is the lightest iteration of the brand’s revolutionary 1/100th of a second chronograph.

It features brightly coloured accents in Extreme E’s signature “Vital Green” tone as a message of awareness and action on climate change, as well as recycled and upcycled parts from the actual races incorporated in the strap and packaging.

Zenith Defy Extreme E 2023 Limited Edition

ZENITH has made its most rugged 1/100th of a second chronograph even lighter while retaining its inherent toughness in the DEFY Extreme E edition.

Tried and tested in some of the most extreme conditions and environments that Extreme E has provided, the DEFY Extreme E edition is the first model in the collection to be crafted entirely in lightweight yet tough carbon fibre – including the pushers and their protective elements. The watch weighs only 96 grams, including the strap and triple-folding clasp – also in carbon fibre.

The open multi-layered dial, consisting of tinted sapphire crystal elements and embellished with Extreme E’s official “Vital Green” colour accents, is a subtle reminder of the championship’s core value of sustainability.

Zenith Defy Extreme E 2023 Limited Edition

Partially visible through the open dial as well as the sapphire case back is the world’s fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production, offering 1/100th of a second time measurements by means of two independent escapements beating at the rate of 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph function.

Highlighting the themes of sustainability and environmental awareness the DEFY Extreme E edition comes with a rubber strap infused with materials of upcycled Continental CrossContact tires that were used in the first season’s races. Matching the Extreme E Vital Green accents on the dial, the Velcro strap features a black rubber central element surrounded by green cordura-effect rubber.

Zenith Defy Extreme E 2023 Limited Edition

The DEFY Extreme E edition is delivered with two additional straps in black rubber and black Velcro, which can be easily swapped without any tools by using the case back’s ingenious and intuitive quick strap-change mechanism.

With the DEFY Extreme E edition, Zenith is offering a suitably sturdy waterproof and crushproof watch case inspired by the extreme conditions of the rally, incorporating various upcycled elements from the side-lines of the first Season’s races. The case’s lid coating is made from E-grip recycled tires, while the plate covering is made from parts of an Extreme E racing tarpaulin.

Zenith Defy Extreme E 2023 Limited Edition

Made in a limited edition of 100 pieces, the DEFY Extreme E edition is available exclusively at ZENITH physical and online boutiques around the world.

Technical details

Model: Zenith Defy Extreme E 2023 Limited Edition
Reference: 10.9101.9004/60.I200

Movement
El Primero 9004, Automatic
1/100th of a second Chronograph movement
Frequency: 1 escapement for the Watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz) + 1 escapement for the Chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz)
Power reserve approx. 50 hours
Finishes: Black colored main plate on movement + Special black colored oscillating weight with satined finishings
Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second for the Chrono hand
Certified Chronometer

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Small seconds at 9 o’clock
1/100th of a second Chronograph: Central chronograph hand that makes one turn each second / 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock / 60-second counter at 6 o’clock / Chronograph power-reserve indication at 12 o’clock

Case
Material: Full Carbon
Case diameter: 45mm
Water resistance: 20 ATM
Screwed-in crown

Dial
Tinted sapphire with three black-coloured counters
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Black Rubber
Comes with Vital green Velcro (recycled tires) and carbon triple folding clasp
Full Interchangeable strap system

Price
29,900 CHF

Zenith Defy Revival Shadow

Zenith presents Defy Revival Shadow, the latest addition to the DEFY Revival collection. Modern and stealthy, this new timepiece takes inspiration from the very first DEFY from 1969.

Just like the Zenith Chronomaster Revival Shadow model released in 2020, the DEFY Revival Shadow creatively blends the historic model’s heritage with a contemporary accent through dark tones and muted textures.

Zenith Defy Revival Shadow watch

Crafted in titanium, the highly angular DEFY Revival case with its fourteen-sided bezel is entirely microblasted for a matte finish, revealing the dark grey tone of titanium and enhancing the geometry of the singular and instantly recognizable case.

A first for ZENITH and its iconic “ladder” bracelet, the links and clasp are crafted in titanium, and finished with the same matte texture as the case. Light weight and ergonomic, the titanium bracelet is fitted on an updated folding clasp with a more comfortable and streamlined feel.

Zenith Defy Revival Shadow

The DEFY Revival Shadow’s dial is matte black with a distinctly vintage look. The hands, filled with a cream-coloured Super-LumiNova pigment, as well as the applied square hour markers with horizontal grooves are polished and finished in rhodium for optimum legibility.

Visible through the sapphire display back, the automatic Elite 670 manufacture movement offers a power reserve of 50 hours. Finally, the watch has an impressive water-resistance of 30ATM (300 metres).

Zenith Defy Revival Shadow

The DEFY Revival Shadow is available from ZENITH physical and online boutiques as well as authorized retailers around the world.

Technical details

Model: Zenith Defy Revival Shadow
Reference: 97.A3642.670/21.M3642

Movement
Elite 670, Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 VpH (4 Hz)
Power reserve: approx. 50 hours
Finishes: New star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Central seconds hand
Date indication at 4:30H

Case
Microblasted titanium case
Original DEFY Octogonal case with iconic 14-sided bezel
Case diameter: 37 mm
Water resistance: 30 ATM

Dial
Black dial
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Beige SuperLuminova

Bracelet
Micoblasted titanium “Ladder” bracelet

Price
7,400 CHF

ZENITH Pilot Flyback Chronograph with Big Date

Along with the automatic three-hand watch of the new Pilot Collection, ZENITH has released a new Pilot Chronograph with Flyback function.

For the Pilot Big Date Flyback Chronograph, ZENITH has developed a new version of its El Primero 3600 calibre.

The Pilot Big Date Flyback comes in two distinct versions, both in a 42.5mm case. The stainless steel version takes a page from one of the most distinguished El Primero Flyback chronographs, the aptly named “Rainbow Flyback”.

ZENITH Pilot Flyback Chronograph with Big Date

The chronograph’s minutes totalizer is done in alternating colours to more easily distinguish between the five-minute marks. The central chronograph seconds as well as the chronograph minutes hands are done in a bright orange tone, another nod to the iconic El Primero Rainbow from 1997.

The black ceramic version comes with luminescent white markers and hands contrasting boldly against the opaline black corrugated dial.

ZENITH Pilot Flyback Chronograph with Big Date

The new El Primero 3652 automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre integrates two functions: the big date and the flyback function. Beyond its easy readability, the oversized date display in the Pilot Big DateFlyback features a next-gen patented compliant mechanism that advances and stabilizes both of the big date’s wheels in less than 0.03 seconds.

Originally conceived for aviators who wore thick sheepskin gloves, the flyback function allows the chronograph function to be reset to zero and restarted by a single push of a button, simplifying the pilot’s operations and offering the possibility to record consecutive times without stopping. The El Primero chronograph calibre with its “artificial horizon” rotor is visible through the display back.

ZENITH Pilot Flyback Chronograph with Big Date

The ZENITH Pilot Big Date Flyback in ceramic is delivered with black and khaki cordura-effect rubber, while the steel version comes with a black cordura-effect rubber strap and a brown leather strap.

All the straps come with an integrated quick-release mechanism for easy swapping without tools.

Technical details

Model: Zenith Pilot Flyback Chronograph with Big Date
Collection: Zenith Pilot

Movement
El Primero 3652, automatic column-wheel chronograph with flyback function
Patented Big Date at 6 o’clock, Instanteanous Big Date jump in 0.007 sec (0.02 for discs jump &stabilization)
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: approx. 60 hours
Finishes: Special “Pilot artificial horizon” black oscillating weight

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Small seconds at 9 o’clock
Instantaneous Big Date at 6 o’clock
Flyback Chronograph
30-minute counter at 3 o’clock

Model: Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback Chronograph Black Ceramic Version
Reference 49.4000.3652/21.I001

Case
Material: Black microblasted ceramic
Case diameter: 42.5mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Black with horizontal grooves
Hour markers: Applied arabic numerals in SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Black & white with SLN C1

Bracelet
Comes with 2 straps: Black cordura effect rubber strap and a khaki cordura effect strap
Steel with black PVD coating triple folding clasp
Fully Interchangeable strap system

Price
13,400 CHF

Model: Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback Chronograph Stainless Steel Version
Reference 03.4000.3652/21.I001

Case
Material: Stainless steel
Case diameter: 42.5mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Black with horizontal grooves
Hour markers: Applied Arabic numerals in SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Black & white with SLN C1

Bracelet
Comes with 2 straps: Black cordura effect rubber strap and a Brown calfskin leather strap
Steel triple folding clasp
Fully Interchangeable strap system

Price
11,400 CHF

ZENITH Pilot Automatic

Unveiled at Watches & Wonders 2023, the new ZENITH Pilot collection opens a new chapter in the brand’s rich history in producing aviator timepieces. This new 40mm three-hand automatic watch revisits the ZENITH Pilot collection’s aesthetic codes in an outstanding silhouette full of subtle details.

Available in stainless steel and black ceramic versions, the Zenith Pilot Automatic features an entirely new case design with a distinct flat-top round bezel fixed on top of the rounded case.

In the steel version, the surfaces are vertically satin-brushed with polished chamfers, while the black ceramic version is entirely microblasted for a stealthy matte finish.

ZENITH Pilot Automatic watch

The oversized crown, a defining feature of Pilot watches, takes on a more modern, angular form, while remaining easy to operate – even with gloves on.

The black opaline dial, with its horizontal grooves, mimics the look of corrugated metal sheets that make up the fuselage of many older aircrafts. The oversized luminescent Arabic numerals, a signature feature of ZENITH Pilot watches and dashboard instruments since the early 1900s, take on a more modern font and are applied as metal markers filled with white Super-LumiNova.

At 6 o’clock above the date window, the luminescent hour marker takes the form of a flat white line, recalling the artificial horizon instrument in plane. Here, it allows the wearer to instantly understand the orientation of the watch and read the time without second-guessing.

The dial is signed “Pilot”, as ZENITH remains the first and only brand to hold the rights to mark its dials with the term.

Visible through the sapphire display back, the El Primero 3620 high-frequency manufacture movement delivers a power reserve of 60 hours when fully wound.

The winding mechanism’s open and blackened oscillating weight recalling the archetypal and essential “artificial horizon” dashboard instrument, which informs the pilot of the aircraft’s orientation relative to the Earth’s horizon.

ZENITH Pilot Automatic

The black ceramic version comes with a stealthy black cordura-effect rubber strap and a newly designed folding clasp developed specifically for the Pilot, as well as a more utilitarian khaki cordura-effect rubber strap.

The steel model has the same black cordura-effect rubber strap, but its second strap is in brown calfskin leather, recalling typical vintage aviator’s paraphernalia like the flight jacket, gloves and hat.

The straps can be easily swapped with the quick-release mechanism integrated directly into the back of the straps, requiring no tools to detach from the spring bars holding them in place.

The new ZENITH Pilot collection also offers a Pilot Big Date Flyback Chronograph.

Technical details

Collection: Zenith Pilot

Movement
El Primero 3620, automatic
3-hands high frequency movement (5Hz)
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: approx. 60 hours
Finishes: Special “Pilot artificial horizon” black oscillating weight

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Central seconds hand
Date indication at 6 o’clock

ZENITH Pilot Automatic Black Ceramic Version, Reference 49.4000.3620/21.I001

Case
Material: Black microblasted ceramic
Case diameter: 40mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Black with horizontal grooves
Hour markers: Applied Arabic numerals in SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Black & white with SLN C1

Bracelet
Comes with 2 straps: Black cordura effect rubber strap and a khaki cordura effect strap
Steel with black PVD coating triple folding clasp
Fully Interchangeable strap system

Price
9, 500 CHF

ZENITH Pilot Automatic Steel Version, Reference 03.4000.3620/21.I001

Case
Material: Stainless Steel
Case diameter: 40mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Black with horizontal grooves
Hour markers: Applied Arabic numerals in SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Black & white with SLN C1

Bracelet
Comes with 2 straps: Black cordura effect rubber strap and a Brown calfskin leather strap
Steel triple folding clasp
Fully Interchangeable strap system

Price
7,500 CHF

Zenith DEFY Extreme E Box Set

ZENITH, the Official Timekeeper and Founding Partner of Extreme E championship has created a special Box Set comprising of each pieces of four DEFY Extreme E Season 2 edition watches.

Ahead of the debut of the 2023 Extreme E championship, the Swiss Manufacture is offering a unique opportunity to acquire all four editions of the DEFY Extreme E pieces in a single boxed set – all bearing the special limited edition number of “0/20”.

Each of the four pieces bears the official colours of a championship race: Yellow for Desert X Prix, orange for Island X Prix, purple for Energy X Prix and coppery-brown for Copper X Prix. Crafted in lightweight yet rugged carbon fibre and titanium, each timepiece houses the high-frequency 1/100th of a second El Primero 21 movement.

Bringing sustainability and environmental awareness to the forefront, the DEFY Extreme E limited editions are delivered with a rubber strap infused with materials of upcycled Continental CrossContact tires that were used in the first season’s races.

Zenith DEFY Extreme E Box Set

These four watches come packaged in a suitably sturdy waterproof and crushproof watch case inspired by the extreme conditions of the rally, incorporating various upcycled elements from the side-lines of the first season’s races. The case’s lid coating is made from E-grip recycled tires, while the plate covering is made from parts of an Extreme E racing tarpaulin.

In addition to the box set, the buyer will receive rare collectibles and gain access to unique experiences, including a helmet from season 2 signed by Extreme E teams and drivers. An invitation to one race from the upcoming Extreme E 2023 season is also offered as part of the set, complete with a VIP pass and accommodation aboard the St Helena ship for one night.

The buyer will also have the opportunity to spend time with Extreme E founder Alejandro Agag and ZENITH CEO Julien Tornare on the sidelines of the race.

The Extreme E Desert X Prix races will take place in NEOM in Saudi Arabia on March 11-12, 2023.

Technical details

Collection: Zenith DEFY Extreme E Box Set

Model: Zenith DEFY Extreme E “Desert X Prix” Edition
Reference: 10.9100.9004-1/23.I303

Zenith DEFY Extreme E “Desert X Prix” Edition

Case
Material: Carbon &Microblasted Titanium
Diameter: 45mm
Special engraving on case back with “Desert X Prix” logo
Water resistance: 20 ATM

Dial
Tinted sapphire with three black-coloured counters Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with “SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Yellow Velcro bracelet made with parts of Continental recycled tires
Also comes with a black Velcro strap and a black rubber strap

Price
26,900 CHF

Model: Zenith DEFY Extreme E “Island X Prix” Edition
Reference: 10.9100.9004-4/26.I305

Zenith DEFY Extreme E “ISLAND X PRIX” Edition

Case
Material: Carbon &Microblasted Titanium
Water resistance: 20 ATM
Case: 45mm. Special engraving on case back with “Island X Prix” logo

Dial
Tinted sapphire with three black-coloured counters
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Orange Velcro bracelet made with parts of Continental recycled tires. Also comes with a black Velcro strap and a black rubber strap.

Price
26,900 CHF

Model: Zenith DEFY Extreme E – Copper X Prix Edition
Reference: 10.9100.9004-5/27. I307

Zenith DEFY Extreme E – Copper X Prix Edition

 

Case
Material: Carbon &Microblasted Titanium
Diameter: 45mm
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback
Water resistance: 20 ATM

Dial
Tinted sapphire with three black-coloured counters Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Full Interchangeable strap system
Copper Recycled tires Velcro Strap and a 2nd strap included
Microblasted Titanium Triple folding clasp

Price
26,900 CHF

Model: Zenith DEFY Extreme E – Energy X Prix Edition
Reference: 10.9100.9004-2/24.I301

Case
Material: Carbon &Microblasted Titanium
Diameter: 45mm
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback with Extreme E Energy X Prix engraving
Water resistance: 20 ATM

Dial
Tinted sapphire with three black-coloured counters Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Full Interchangeable strap system
Energy X Prix Recycled tires Velcro Strap and a 2nd strap included
Microblasted Titanium Triple folding clasp

Edition
Limited edition of 20 pieces

Price
26,900 CHF

Movement Specifications

El Primero 9004
Frequency 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve min. 50 hours
1/100th of a second Chronograph movement
Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second for the Chrono hand
1 escapement for the Watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz)
1 escapement for the Chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz)
Certified Chronometer

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Small seconds at 9 o’clock
1/100th of a second Chronograph: Central chronograph hand that makes one turn each second. 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock. 60-second counter at 6 o’clock. Chronograph power-reserve indication at 12 o’clock

Finishes
Black colored main plate on movement + Special black colored oscillating weight with satined finishings

Zenith DEFY 21 Ultra Colour Box Set

Zenith unveils the “Ultra Colour” Box Set of 8 vibrantly colourful Defy 21 models

Through the DEFY 21, the first model to host the groundbreaking El Primero 1/100th of a second chronograph movement, ZENITH sought to express notion of high-frequency precision through frequencies of light and colours.

Introduced in 2020, the DEFY 21 Ultraviolet established a new design code for the DEFY 21 that ZENITH is now fully expressing this concept with the DEFY 21 Ultra Colour box set.

Zenith DEFY 21 Ultra Colour Box Se

Consisting of eight different iterations of the DEFY 21 and limited to only eight box sets, the Ultra Colour pieces are all crafted in entirely matte finished lightweight titanium, allowing the chromatics from within to shine through.

Zenith DEFY 21 Violet Ref. 97.9001.9004.80.R922
Zenith DEFY 21 Violet Ref. 97.9001.9004.80.R922

The open dial features raised chronograph counters matching the grey tone of the case, beneath which vibrant metallic colours are applied in the least expected part of the watch: the movement.

Zenith DEFY 21 Orange Ref. 97.9001.9004-1.80.R944
Zenith DEFY 21 Orange Ref. 97.9001.9004-1.80.R944

The bridges as well as the oscillating rotor of the eight Ultra Colour pieces are monochromatically finished in eight different tones: Black, blue, violet, orange, pink, green, turquoise and khaki.

Zenith DEFY 21 Pink Ref. 97.9001.9004-2.80.R948
Zenith DEFY 21 Pink Ref. 97.9001.9004-2.80.R948

The metallic tones shift with the light, enhancing the sense of volume and dynamism of this exceptional vibrant series. The cordura-effect rubber straps are also made to match the colours of the movement.

Zenith DEFY 21 Black Ref. 97.9001.9004-3.80.R919
Zenith DEFY 21 Black Ref. 97.9001.9004-3.80.R919

Visible through the dial as well as the sapphire case back, one can admire the singular El Primero 21 automatic high-frequency 1/100th of a second chronograph that’s at the peak of performance and precision, featuring two independent regulating organs and gear trains for the timekeeping and chronograph functions, operating at frequencies of 5Hz (36’000 VpH) and 50Hz (360’000 VpH), respectively.

Zenith DEFY 21 Green Ref. 97.9001.9004-4.80.R943
Zenith DEFY 21 Green Ref. 97.9001.9004-4.80.R943

Luminous and transparent with an almost crystalline allure, the Ultra Box set is delivered in a transparent acrylic presentation case, with an iridescent effect that refracts light to display different colours depending on the angle of the light.

Zenith DEFY 21 Khaki Ref. 97.9001.9004-5.80.R945
Zenith DEFY 21 Khaki Ref. 97.9001.9004-5.80.R945

Each of the watches is engraved on the case back with a limited edition number out of 8, and each box set will feature watches that are sequentially numbered 1 through 8, rather than having the same number for all eight watches in a single box set.

Zenith DEFY 21 Blue Ref. 97.9001.9004-6.80.R946
Zenith DEFY 21 Blue Ref. 97.9001.9004-6.80.R946

The DEFY 21 Ultra Colour box set is made as a very limited edition of only 8 examples and is available exclusively from ZENITH physical and online boutiques around the world.

Zenith DEFY 21 Turquoise Ref. 97.9001.9004-8.80.R955
Zenith DEFY 21 Turquoise Ref. 97.9001.9004-8.80.R955

Technical details

Zenith DEFY 21 Ultra Color Box Set

Movement
El Primero 9004 automatic
Frequency 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
1/100th of a second Chronograph movement
Exclusive dynamic signature of one rotation per second
1 escapement for the Watch (36,000 VpH – 5 Hz)
1 escapement for the Chronograph (360,000 VpH – 50 Hz)
Chronometer certified
Power reserve min. 50 hours
Finishes: Colored main plate on movement and colored oscillating weight with satined finishings

Functions
1/100th of a second chronograph functions
Chronograph power-reserve indication at 12 o’clock
Hours and minutes in the centre
Small seconds at 9 o’clock, Central chronograph hand, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, 60-second counter at 6 o’clock

Case
Material: Microblasted titanium
Water resistance: 10 ATM

Dial
Open-worked with grey sub-dials
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Superluminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Superluminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Different colored straps matching the finishing of the movement
Microblasted titanium double folding clasp

References
97.9001.9004/80.R944.T3/P
97.9001.9004/80.R922.T3/P
97.9001.9004/80.R948.T3/P
97.9001.9004/80.R919.T3/P
97.9001.9004/80.R943.T3/P
97.9001.9004/80.R945.T3/P
97.9001.9004-8/80.R955.T3/P
97.9001.9004-6/80.R946.T3/P

Price
Defy 21 Ultracolor box set 118’000 CHF

Zenith DEFY Revival A3690

Swiss luxury watch brand Zenith expands its DEFY Revival series with a re-edition of the historic reference A3690.

First launched in 1970,shortly after the introduction of the DEFY wristwatch collection with its rugged “bank vault” case and daring dial design, the A3690 was among the earliest references to incorporate striking colours. It featured a tropical teal blue dial.

Reproduced in accurate detail using the historical production plans, the Zenith DEFY Revival A3690 watch brings back all the details and singular design elements of its ancestor.

Zenith DEFY Revival A3690

This includes a faceted octagonal case paired with a fourteen-sided bezel, a teal-blue dial with a prominent vignette effect that darkens towards the edges, unusual applied square hour markers feature horizontal grooves, and the now-iconic Gay Frères steel “ladder” bracelet, which has now been updated with a more modern and ergonomic folding clasp.

Zenith DEFY Revival A3690 with ladder bracelet

In fact, the only cosmetic differences between the Revival and the historical reference are the sapphire crystal, the display case back and the type of luminescent pigments.

Zenith DEFY Revival A3690
The original reference was fitted with a solid metal case-back emblazoned with a four-pointed star that became one of the brand’s logos. The Zenith DEFY Revival A3690 features a sapphire display back showing the automatic Elite 670 manufacture movement, operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 VpH) and providing an autonomy of 50 hours.

Zenith DEFY Revival A3690

The water-resistance of 30ATM (300 metres) has also been maintained from the original, even with the addition of a display back.

The Defy Revival A3690 watch is available now at ZENITH physical and online boutiques around the world.

Technical details

Model: Zenith Defy Revival A3690
Reference: 03.A3642.670/3690.M3642

Movement
ELITE 670 automatic
Frequency: 28 800 VpH (4 Hz)
Power reserve: Approx. 50 hours
Finishes: New star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Central seconds hand
Date indication at 4:30

Case
Material: Stainless steel
Octogonal case with iconic 14-sided bezel
Diameter: 37 mm
Water resistance: 30 ATM

Dial
Turquoise gradient dial
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated and faceted
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Stainless steel “Ladder” bracelet

Price
6,900 CHF

Zenith Defy Revival A3691

ZENITH presents the second model in its collection of faithfully reproduced iconic DEFY timepieces.

The DEFY Revival A3691 is a re-edition of an important 1971 reference. With its vibrant red gradient-effect dial and rugged geometric case, this new model is the first DEFY Revival model in the permanent collection.

Zenith Defy Revival A3691

In 1969, Not only did the Manufacture unveil the venerable El Primero calibre, but it also debuted the DEFY collection of wristwatches.

One of the first models of this DEFY collection was the A3642. About two years later, ZENITH introduced new colourful dials with a marked “vignette” effect that darkens towards the edges, including the A3691 with a deep red dial.

In 2022, the Swiss Manufacture paid tribute to the historic A3642 with the Limited Edition Zenith Defy Revival A3642 watch. Now it presents the re-edition of A3691.

Zenith DEFY Revival A3691

Accurately recreated using the historical production plans, the Zenith DEFY Revival A3691 brings back all the details and singular design elements of its ancestor.

The faceted octagonal case is paired with a fourteen-sided bezel. The deep glossy red dial features a prominent vignette effect that darkens towards the edges. It comes with unusual applied square hour markers with horizontal grooves.

Zenith Defy Revival A3691

The iconic Gay Frères steel “ladder” bracelet has now been updated with a more modern and ergonomic folding clasp.

The only cosmetic differences between the Revival and its progenitor are the sapphire crystal, the display case back and the type of luminescent pigments. The water-resistance of 30ATM (300 metres) has also been maintained from the original, even with the addition of a display back.

The other main difference beats away inside. Instead of the original’s solid case back emblazoned with a four-pointed star that became one of the brand’s logos and recurring design element for years, the DEFY Revival A3691 features a sapphire display back showing the automatic Elite 670 manufacture movement, operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 VpH) and providing an autonomy of 50 hours.

Zenith Defy Revival A3691

Unlike the DEFY Revival A3642, which was produced as a numbered limited edition, the DEFY Revival A3691 version is joining the permanent DEFY collection and will be available from ZENITH boutiques and authorised retailers around the world.

Technical details

Model: Zenith Defy Revival A3691 (original revival of the reference A3691)
Reference 03.A3642.670/3691.M3642

Movement
Calibre ELITE 670 automatic
Frequency 28 800 VpH (4 Hz)
Power reserve approx. 50 hours
Finishes: New star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings

Functions
Hours and minutes in the centre
Central seconds hand
Date indication at 4:30

Case
Material: Stainless steel
Octogonal case with iconic 14-sided bezel
Case diameter: 37 mm
Water resistance: 30 ATM

Dial
Ruby gradient dial
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated and faceted
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet
Stainless steel “Ladder” bracelet

Price
6,900 CHF