Defy Skyline Chronograph Edition 160 Ans

ZENITH BLUE CERAMIC CHRONOGRAPH TRILOGY - 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

In celebration of its 160th anniversary, ZENITH proudly unveils an exceptional trio of watches reimagined in monochromatic blue, the Maison’s signature colour. Three of the most emblematic ZENITH chronographs will be offered in blue ceramic specially developed for the occasion: a CHRONOMASTER Sport, a DEFY Skyline Chronograph and a PILOT Chronograph. Available in exclusive limited editions of 160 pieces each, they can be purchased individually or in a special anniversary box set.

Legend has it that the ZENITH name was inspired by a bright, night sky full of stars. This vision came to its founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, as a reference to the highest point reached by a celestial body in the sky, symbolizing the heights of excellence to which he aspired. Since then, the Maison has been driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection in every aspect of the watchmaking art. In line with this vision and reflecting the infinity of the skies, blue has become ZENITH’s signature colour.

Durable, lightweight, soft to the touch, highly scratch-resistant, and biocompatible, ceramic is an exceptional yet demanding material. It can be produced in a vast array of colours and, unlike metals that rely on surface coatings, it is integrally coloured, which contributes to its unique sheen and depth. While producing black and white ceramic is relatively straightforward, creating a new and specific shade, such as the ZENITH’s blue, is a delicate and complex endeavor requiring months of development. Shaping and finishing ceramic components is equally challenging, demanding advanced techniques. Despite these complexities, ZENITH takes pride in finishing its ceramic watches with the same meticulous attention to detail as its gold or steel timepieces.

This new blue ceramic hue is being introduced simultaneously across three of ZENITH’s most emblematic chronographs as part of the Maison’s 160th anniversary. Released in limited editions of 160 pieces each, these watches can be purchased individually or as a set in a special anniversary box—to which the G.F.J can be added.

All three watches are available exclusively through the Maison’s physical and online boutiques, as well as authorized retailers worldwide.

"Blue has always been a defining element of ZENITH’s identity, symbolizing our connection to the sky and the pioneering spirit that has driven us for 160 years. To mark this milestone, we wanted to give our signature color a new dimension through a trilogy of ceramic chronographs. More than a tribute to our heritage, these timepieces embody the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that continue to shape the future of our Maison. We are proud to celebrate this anniversary with such a bold and meaningful creation."

Benoît de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH WATCHES.

DEFY SKYLINE CHRONOGRAPH 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Effortlessly bridging heritage and modernity, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph is a contemporary successor to the 1969 DEFY—a robust and daring model distinguished by its architectural case and multi-faceted bezel. Since its introduction in 2024, the collection has been offered in various steel versions. Now, in celebration of the brand’s 160th anniversary, it is reimagined with an even bolder aesthetic. For the first time, it is crafted entirely in ceramic, featuring ZENITH’s signature blue in a shade specifically developed by the brand. The deep hue of the faceted 42 mm case and bracelet is echoed on the dial, adorned with an engraved geometric motif inspired by the brand’s four-pointed star.

At its heart lies the El Primero 3600 calibre, a modern evolution of ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency chronograph, originally introduced in 2019. This movement uniquely displays 1/10th of a second with remarkable clarity, with the chronograph seconds hand completing a full revolution every 10 seconds—six times faster than the standard chronograph. Operating at a frequency of 5 Hz, it ensures precise 1/10th-of-a-second measurements aligned with the chapter ring’s graduations. A stop-seconds mechanism allows for accurate time setting, while the movement, visible through the sapphire case back, features a satin-brushed oscillating weight engraved with a “160th Anniversary” inscription.

Designed for ultimate versatility, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph Edition 160th anniversary

edition incorporates a user-friendly quick strap-change system seamlessly integrated into the case. With a simple push of a button, the three-link ceramic bracelet can be effortlessly swapped for the accompanying star-patterned blue rubber strap, secured with a steel folding clasp.

ZENITH: THE HEART OF WATCHMAKING

Founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, ZENITH has been at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking for over 160 years, driven by a pioneering spirit and a relentless pursuit of precision. As the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, ZENITH has continuously revolutionized horology by developing and manufacturing in-house movement, most notably the El Primero, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre launched in 1969, renowned for its unparalleled precision and high-frequency performance.

ZENITH’s timepieces celebrate its dedication to innovation and exceptional craftsmanship. The CHRONOMASTER collection highlights the brand’s mastery of high-precision chronographs, the DEFY showcases technical innovation and bold design, while the PILOT collection celebrates ZENITH’s storied aviation legacy with distinctive, adventure- ready timepieces. This unwavering commitment to precision has been recognized with an unparalleled 2,333 chronometry prizes, underscoring ZENITH’s enduring legacy of excellence.

Throughout its history, ZENITH timepieces have accompanied pioneers who dared to dream big and achieve the extraordinary: from Louis Blériot’s historic flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-breaking stratospheric free-fall jump. This daring spirit continues to drive the Maison as it redefines the future of Swiss watchmaking. Celebrating over a century and a half of excellence, innovation, and purpose, ZENITH remains at the forefront of Swiss horology, empowering those who challenge conventions and strive for greatness.

From Le Locle to the world, from 1865 to now, ZENITH is the heart of watchmaking.