November 20th 2024
Collaboration can sometimes feel overwhelming, but when executed thoughtfully, it offers opportunities to reimagine the familiar. Zenith, in partnership with boutique retailer Collective Horology, demonstrates this beautifully with the Zenith Defy Skyline C.X Edition, a limited-edition reworking of their iconic integrated bracelet watch.
Modern Design Meets Functional Aesthetics
The Zenith Defy Skyline C.X Edition builds upon the foundation of the standard 41mm Defy Skyline, featuring a stainless steel case with a flat sapphire crystal, screw-down crown, and 100 meters of water resistance. However, the real transformation lies in its finishing. Departing from the polished and brushed surfaces of its predecessors, the C.X Edition opts for a matte sandblasted texture, giving it a modern, utilitarian edge. The subtle polish on the sides of its twelve-sided bezel and display caseback adds a sophisticated contrast to the rugged aesthetic.
A Dial with Depth and Balance
The dial reimagines the Defy Skyline’s signature look with a minimalist silver/gray backdrop accented by small orange highlights. Its signature four-pointed star pattern is rendered three-dimensionally, with stars closer to the center engraved deeper than those near the edges, creating a striking radial gradient. Additionally, the dial layout is streamlined: the 1/10th of a second indicator moves to 6 o’clock for a symmetrical time-only display, discarding the date window and the usual sub-dial at 9 o’clock.
High-Frequency Precision with the El Primero Movement
Inside, the watch is powered by Zenith’s El Primero 3620 SK movement, a high-frequency caliber running at 36,000vph (5 Hz) with a 55-hour power reserve. This movement’s hallmark 1/10th of a second indicator completes a full rotation every ten seconds, enhancing both form and function.
Strap Versatility and Limited Availability
The C.X Edition offers versatility with an H-link integrated bracelet and an orange textured rubber strap, both featuring Zenith’s quick-release system for easy swapping. Limited to just 200 pieces and priced at $12,300 USD, this model represents a distinct evolution within the Defy Skyline lineup, offering a cohesive yet innovative take on a contemporary classic.
Zenith’s collaboration with Collective Horology highlights the transformative power of thoughtful design, creating a timepiece that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique.