As Paris prepares to embrace a global influx of visitors this summer, Zenith has made a significant statement with the introduction of the DEFY Skyline Édition Paris. This highly anticipated limited edition, restricted to just 50 pieces, represents a bold tribute to the city’s architectural and historical richness. Zenith CEO Benoit de Clerck welcomed an elite gathering of guests, clients, and press to unveil this distinguished model, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and exclusivity.
The DEFY Skyline Édition Paris stands as a contemporary evolution of Zenith’s pioneering DEFY collection, which first debuted in 1969. This latest iteration marries the collection’s enduring design ethos with a fresh and distinctive aesthetic. Characterised by its sculpted lines and geometric facets, the DEFY Skyline maintains the robust qualities synonymous with the DEFY lineage while introducing a new visual dimension.
This exclusive model distinguishes itself with its verdigris gradient dial—a first for Zenith’s modern offerings. The design draws inspiration from Paris’s unique skyline, where historical and modern elements converge seamlessly. Parisian architecture, from the ornate rooftops of classical buildings to the art nouveau metro entrances and historic bridges, is richly imbued with copper hues. This verdant tone, reminiscent of aged copper, symbolises both resilience and the passage of time.
The gradient effect of the DEFY Skyline Édition Paris dial pays homage to Zenith’s tradition of innovative colour application, a hallmark first demonstrated in the 1970s with models such as the A3642, A3690, and A3691. These early DEFY watches were renowned for their pioneering use of gradient effects, which Zenith now reintroduces in a modern context with this Parisian edition. The geometric dial, adorned with Zenith’s signature Starry Sky pattern, further enhances the depth and allure of the verdigris hue.
Powering the DEFY Skyline Édition Paris is the El Primero 3620 automatic calibre, renowned for its high-frequency precision. This movement boasts a 1/10th of a second indicator, driven by a 5Hz escapement, and offers a power reserve of approximately 60 hours. The watch includes a stop-second mechanism for precise time-setting, ensuring accuracy and reliability. The case back is elegantly engraved with “ÉDITION PARIS” alongside the limited edition number, underscoring its exclusivity.
The DEFY Skyline Édition Paris is presented on an integrated steel bracelet, complemented by a black patterned rubber strap. This versatile pairing allows for effortless customisation, facilitated by Zenith’s innovative quick strap-change system, which requires no tools.
Each of the 50 limited-edition timepieces will be delivered in a bespoke package, designed specifically for this release, with each watch numbered to enhance its collectible value.
The DEFY Skyline Édition Paris will be available exclusively through Zenith’s physical and online boutiques in France. This release not only celebrates Zenith’s rich heritage but also cements its commitment to creating exceptional timepieces that reflect the timeless elegance of one of the world’s most iconic cities.