Zenith’s Defy Skyline Tourbillon in rose gold is a star-spangled stunner
It’s been a prolific year for Zenith. Celebrating its 160th anniversary, the historic watchmaker has rolled out a series of attractive timepieces, including the exquisite G.F.J and the vibrant Defy Chronograph USM, that embody both the maison’s technical expertise and distinctive design sensibilities. While those watches are more than impressive in their own right, the new Defy Skyline Tourbillon may be the most eye-catching yet.
First unveiled in 2022, the Defy Skyline collection offers a contemporary interpretation of the original Defy from 1969. Rather than the edgy, architectural silhouette of the original, the Defy Skyline presents a sleeker profile, offset by its recognisable 12-sided bezel.
The new 41mm Defy Skyline Tourbillon, however, marks the first time the timepiece has been offered in 18k rose gold. Adding further visual splendour is a striking brick-red dial that pays homage to the iconic Zenith manufacture in Le Locle. The combination of the warm rose gold case and vibrant red dial may sound overwhelming. Thanks to the sleek lines of the case, as well as its alternating brushed and polished surfaces, however, the watch’s exuberance is kept in check.
Of course, this isn’t a timepiece designed to go unnoticed. One only needs to look at the tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock to see this in action. And while the tourbillon doesn’t need any help to command attention, a radiating motif of engraved four-pointed stars helps to frame and draw the eye towards the aperture.
More than that, the engraved patterns help to catch light and shimmer as the watch moves, adding further visual punch. Completing the composition are rose-gold hour markers and faceted hands, as well as a rose-gold integrated rose-gold H-link bracelet that lends the watch touch of sportive ease.
Powered by the in-house El Primero 3630 calibre, the Defy Skyline Tourbillon— available exclusively through Zenith boutiques and a select network of authorised retailers worldwide—beats at 5 Hz and offers a 50-hour power reserve.
