The Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone Edition

The collaboration between Zenith and contemporary artist Felipe Pantone takes a bold new step with the release of a special edition DEFY Skyline Tourbillon. Marking their third project together, this limited edition of 100 pieces blends cutting-edge watchmaking with striking contemporary art, showcasing Pantone’s signature style in a timepiece that is as visually captivating as it is technically advanced.

Building on their previous collaborations, which included the DEFY 21 and DEFY Extreme models, Zenith and Pantone have pushed the boundaries once again. This time, the DEFY Skyline serves as the canvas for Pantone’s artistic vision. The result is a watch that brings together intricate design elements with high functionality.

Pantone described this latest creation as, “a masterpiece of high horology, combining simplicity and sophistication.” The watch features unique details such as gradient indexes and hands, a mirrored ‘Planned Iridescence’ dial, and a tourbillon shaped like a lightning bolt, reflecting Pantone’s distinct aesthetic.

Housed in a 41mm stainless steel case with a mix of satin-brushed and polished surfaces, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone is designed for both comfort and style. The sharp edges, along with the twelve-sided bezel, play with light to enhance the visual impact. In keeping with previous collaborations, the corners of the case are engraved with “FPT1” – representing “Felipe Pantone Tourbillon #1.” The interchangeable steel bracelet and black rubber strap provide versatility for different looks and occasions.

The standout feature of the watch is the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, rotating every 60 seconds and showcasing a lightning bolt-shaped bridge finished in Pantone’s signature metallic rainbow tones. This effect is achieved through a 3D PVD technique, a method first introduced in their 2021 collaboration. The tourbillon cage, designed as a four-pointed star, adds another layer of artistic expression.

The dial, crafted from a sapphire disk, is entirely iridescent with a micro-engraved pattern of concentric circles that produce a moiré effect. The back of the dial is mirrored, creating a colourful display reminiscent of a CD. Additionally, the dial features a vignette effect that darkens towards the edges, adding depth and a touch of retro flair. This combination of sapphire crystal mirrored backing, and intricate engraving is a complex achievement, making the watch both a technical marvel and a visual spectacle.

The hands and hour markers further showcase Pantone’s unique design language. Distorted down the middle as if experiencing a digital glitch, they are finished in the same rainbow tones as the tourbillon. The El Primero 3630 high-frequency automatic movement powers the watch, offering a 60-hour power reserve. The artist’s influence is also seen in the movement’s star-shaped oscillating weight, which features a rainbow PVD finish to match the dial’s metallic accents.

Adding a final touch of exclusivity, the watch is presented in a custom-designed box with an iridescent interior pattern that mirrors the watch’s design language. The DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone will be available globally through Zenith boutiques, select retailers, and online.