Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph: expanding the El Primero high-frequency calibre range

0 0 Wednesday, 8 May 2024 Edit this post

Zenith has expanded its Defy Skyline product line with a chronograph model powered by their Manufacture El Primero automatic chronograph calibre, endowed with a 1/10th of a second chronograph function.

The faceted stainless steel case of the new Defy Skyline Chronograph, measuring 42 mm in diameter and 12.7 mm in thickness, is equipped with a dodecagonal bezel and pushers that follow the sharply drawn lines.

The screw-down crown, decorated with the star emblem, helps ensure a water-resistance of 100 metres / 330 feet.

Available in silver (ref 03.9500.3600/01.I001), metallic black (ref. 03.9500.3600/21.I001), or blue (ref. 03.9500.3600/51.I001), the Defy Skyline Chronograph’s dial pairs the collection’s signature starry sky-patterned dial featuring engraved four-pointed stars with the traditional El Primero dial configuration.

Three slightly oversized and overlapping counters show the elapsed seconds and minutes of the chronograph, as well as the constant running seconds. The date window – matching the colour of the dial – is positioned at 4:30, another El Primero signature.

The flange ring, featuring a 1/10th of a second scale and adorned with twelve facets, mirrors the dodecagonal bezel and extends from the hour markers.

The 1/10th of a second chronograph function is made possible by the 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) frequency rate of the El Primero 3600 calibre, visible through the transparent display case back. Its open star-shaped oscillating weight with bidirectional winding efficiently provides a power reserve of 60 hours.

The watch can be worn with a steel bracelet with a satin-brushed surface and chamfered and polished edges or with the additional star-patterned rubber strap - blue for the blue dial, black for the black dial and olive-green for the silver dial. The bracelet and strap can be effortlessly interchanged using the Defy quick-change mechanism, featuring secure buttons on the back, without requiring any tools.