For the Singapore retailer’s 70th anniversary, Zenith debuts the Defy Skyline Big Date Flyback Sincere Platinum Jubilee Edition.

In a first for the model line, the limited edition combines a big date and flyback chronograph, while the case and integrated bracelet are in sandblasted titanium for a clean, monochromatic aesthetic.

Initial thoughts

Best known for the landmark El Primero high-frequency chronograph movement, Zenith also jumped on the fad for integrated-bracelet sports watches with the Defy Skyline. The angular case and polygonal bezel bring to mind other designs, but like other Zenith offerings, the Defy Skyline is appealing because it’s well priced and equipped with a solid movement.

The Sincere Platinum Jubilee Edition is no exception. In fact, it’s one of the best looking iterations of the model with its all-grey look. Even though the colours are muted, this iteration of the Defy Skyline stands out.

Priced at 22,200 Singapore dollars (about US$17,000), the Sincere edition is priced competitively for what you get, which includes an El Primero calibre with extra complications.

El Primero

The Sincere edition has the signature Defy Skyline design of a dodecagonal bezel, angular case with oversized pushers, and an integrated bracelet. The case and bracelet are sandblasted to a smooth matte finish, resulting in a striking, deep grey tone.

The titanium case is 42 mm in diameter and 47.4 mm lug-to-lug. Despite the seemingly large case, the Defy Skyline is wearable due to the short lug-to-lug distance, while the titanium construction makes it lightweight.

The sunburst, satin-finished dial is metallic grey and stamped with a star pattern inspired by the Zenith emblem. The edge of the dial plate is dodecagonal, echoing the shape of the bezel. It has two counters, along with a two-disc big date display at six o’clock that jumps at midnight in under 0.03 seconds.

Beneath the see-through sapphire case back lies the self-winding cal. 3652, a second-generation El Primero movement. It offers 60 hours of power reserve and beats at 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz).

Unique to this edition is the Sincere logo printed on the underside of the case back, just above the bi-directional, star-shaped rotor.

Key facts and price

Zenith Defy Skyline Big Date Flyback Sincere Platinum Jubilee Edition
Ref. 97.9500.3652/01.I001

Diameter: 42 mm
Height: Unavailable
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: El Primero 3652
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, big date and fly-back chronograph
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Matching titanium bracelet

Limited edition: 70 pieces
Availability: Now at Zenith boutiques and retailers
Price: 22,200 Singapore dollars

For more, visit zenith-watches.com.