Hands-on with the Zenith DEFY Skyline C.X for Collective

A Tribute to Industrial Design

The Zenith DEFY Skyline C.X marks our tenth collaboration, a wild milestone for us. For this significant project, we’ve returned to Zenith, the brand behind our very first collaboration. Over the years, Zenith has solidified its reputation for precision manufacturing and bold design choices, making it the ideal partner to celebrate how far we have both come. Plus, we just like the people at Zenith, who are truly as passionate about watches and design as we are, and are genuinely kind people.

Coming Full-Circle

This collaboration feels like a natural progression. Our first release with Zenith, the El Primero Chronomaster C.01, brought Silicon Valley’s minimalist design ethos to Zenith’s most iconic watch. With the C.X, we dug even deeper into the design language that influences modern technology: the industrial functionalism of the 1970s.

This style of design isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it’s also historically significant to the DEFY collection. Launched in 1969, the Zenith DEFY line predates other iconic stainless steel sports watches like the Royal Oak and Nautilus. By revisiting this period, the C.X pays homage to the DEFY’s roots while offering a fresh perspective that fits seamlessly within the modern DEFY Skyline collection.

Case Construction

The DEFY Skyline C.X is housed in a micro-blasted stainless steel case, offering a matte, almost stone-like texture. This finish is accented by polished details along the bezel edges and caseback, providing contrast without being flashy. The result is a modern, industrial look that feels both durable and refined.

Dial Details

The matte silver dial features Zenith’s signature starry-night pattern, applied with a subtle gradient fade. This pattern adds texture and depth while maintaining the minimalist ethos of the design.

The time-only dial eliminates the date window for a cleaner aesthetic. The 10th-of-a-second subdial, typically at 9 o’clock on other DEFY Skyline models, has been moved to the 6 o’clock position for improved symmetry. The subdial features orange accents, with the number “10” highlighted to celebrate this being our tenth collaboration.

Movement

At the heart of the watch is a modified El Primero movement, famous for its high-frequency operation. In particular, the watch uses the time-only version – i.e., no date – of the movement typically used in the DEFY Skyline Skeleton collection, allowing for a simplified and symmetrical dial layout in keeping with the minimalist design.

Bracelet & Strap

The watch is designed for versatility, offering two strap options, both included standard:

• A micro-blasted steel bracelet, perfectly matching the case finish for a cohesive look
• An orange rubber strap, which ties into the orange accents on the dial and adds a bold, sporty option for more casual settings

Dimensions & Wearability

• Case Diameter: 41mm
• Case Height: 12mm
• Lug-to-Lug: 46mm

These proportions make the C.X comfortable on a wide range of wrist sizes. The combination of sleek case design and strap versatility ensures the watch transitions effortlessly among any number of settings and moods.

Standing Out by Fitting In

What makes the C.X special is how naturally it integrates into the DEFY Skyline collection. The industrial design feels like an extension of Zenith’s modern lineup rather than an outside addition. This seamless integration is what we aim for in every collaboration—a watch that enhances a collection’s story while offering something new.

Despite the significant customizations, the C.X doesn’t feel over-designed or trying too hard. It’s a watch that could easily stand on its own within Zenith’s core collection, which we believe is the hallmark of a successful collaboration.

Zenith DEFY Skyline C.X for Collective is available now at collectivehorology.com. Feel free to get in touch with any questions. And as always, thanks for your support.