The third and final chapter of Zenith’s surfer-inspired trilogy has arrived — and it might just be the boldest one yet. With its full-white ceramic case, striking skeleton dial and vibrant summer vibes, the new Defy Skyline Skeleton “White Surfer” is a statement piece built for style, performance, and storytelling.
A Collaboration Rooted in Passion and Precision
Zenith needs no introduction. Since 1865, the brand has stood at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking innovation, most notably with its legendary El Primero chronograph. In recent years, Zenith has pushed its modern design language through the Defy collection, known for its architectural cases, avant-garde materials and high-frequency mechanics. For this trilogy, the brand partnered with Time+Tide, Australia’s leading watch media outlet, blending horological craftsmanship with a coastal lifestyle narrative. From the original Night Surfer in 2021 to the Skyline Night Surfer El Primero in 2023, the trilogy now concludes with a bright, optimistic piece that embraces the glow of sunlit waves.
Technical Details with a Splash of Sunlight
At the heart of this watch is a 41mm white ceramic case that feels both lightweight and incredibly durable. The openworked dial features a vertical gradient of blue, reminiscent of ocean depth seen through sunlight. Zenith’s signature four-pointed star bridge architecture takes center stage, filled with Super-LumiNova for exceptional nighttime visibility. Powering the watch is the El Primero 3620 SK, a high-frequency movement running at 5Hz (36,000 vph), offering a 55-hour power reserve and displaying a 1/10th of a second counter at 6 o’clock — a subtle yet meaningful nod to the Defy’s precision heritage.
For the Modern Explorer — Urban or Oceanic
This watch doesn’t try to blend in. With its crisp white profile and dynamic skeletonized layout, the White Surfer is designed for those who embrace both performance and personality. It comes with an integrated white ceramic bracelet, as well as an alternate white rubber strap with a star pattern, both easily swappable thanks to Zenith’s quick-release system. With 100m of water resistance, this is a timepiece that transitions effortlessly from beach boardwalk to city rooftop. Whether you’re catching waves or glancing at the time during a rooftop cocktail, the White Surfer keeps you on rhythm.
Final Thoughts: A Summer Statement with Substance
At $19,600 USD, the Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton White Surfer is no casual purchase — but it was never meant to be. This is a watch for those who appreciate the combination of horological precision, contemporary design, and meaningful collaboration. Limited to just 100 pieces, it’s a refined summer companion that celebrates craftsmanship without sacrificing fun.
And in a world that often takes itself too seriously, there’s something refreshing about a watch that wears summer on its sleeve — unapologetically and beautifully. If you like Zenith’s Defy line, check out two watches that deserve your attention : the Defy Extreme Shadow and the Defy Revival Diver Shadow !
