There are many comparisons that can be drawn between the intricate horology industry and the boundary-pushing world of contemporary art. This is perhaps why Zenith, Switzerland’s first integrated watch manufacturer, and Felipe Pantone, the renowned artist famed for using colorful geometric patterns, have once again collaborated on a timepiece.
Previously this collaboration resulted in a limited-edition series of the Defy 21, a one-off Defy 21 Double Tourbillon which set a record for Zenith when it sold at auction, and a sequel series with the Defy Extreme Felipe Pantone.
The latest release is the third full series from the collaboration, a special edition of Zenith’s popular Defy Skyline Tourbillon, featuring added touches from the famed Valencia-based optical artist, transforming the watch into the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone.
As the first reimagining of Zenith’s Defy Skyline model, this new release is limited to only 100 pieces and is set to be available from September 12th at the price of $62,000.
“I’m excited to unveil my latest collaboration with Zenith, our most exceptional watch to date,” said Felipe Pantone. “It’s a masterpiece of high horology, combining simplicity and sophistication. This complex yet minimalist timepiece features stunning details, including the tiny gradient indexes and hands, the mirror ‘Planned Iridescence’ dial and a truly unique bolt-shaped tourbillon.”
Arriving in a 41mm stainless steel octagonal case, the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone truly leans into Pantone’s design style, utilizing its geometric silhouette with the addition of kinetic artwork across the face. Matching the previous collaboration pieces, each corner is engraved with a character that reads ‘FPT1’ standing for Felipe Pantone Tourbillon #1.
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Designed to be a unisex timepiece, the watch comes with an easily interchangeable steel bracelet and a black rubber strap, allowing the piece to transition between business and sporting environments.
Of course, eyes are immediately drawn to the beautiful tourbillon movement which sits in the lower center of the watch face. Completing a single full rotation every 60 seconds, the tourbillon ensures the watch face always features a level of intricate movement.
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Only found on this collaboration piece, the tourbillon bridge is constructed in the shape of a lightning bolt, a recurring motif that can be found throughout Pantone’s work. The same can be said for the rainbow color the bridge has, a style that Zenith and Pantone forged for their first collaboration.
In contrast to previous releases, for the Defy Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone, Zenith has utilized an iridescent dial. Formed from a sapphire disk, a micro-engraved pattern of concentric circles creates the visually intriguing moiré effect, a concept that can be found throughout Pantone’s work. Much like the vibrant iridescent effect you may have noticed on the back of a CD, this watch reflects color in a similar manner.
Special consideration has also been given to the watch’s hands and hour markers, these lean into Pantone’s recurring idea of visual distortion. Each hour marker, apart from twelve, three and nine features a distortion resembling a graphical glitch and is displayed in the same rainbow color as the tourbillon bridge.
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This special edition piece is powered by the El Primero 3630 high-frequency automatic movement, that has a power reserve of 60 hours. Pantone’s touch is even incorporated into this movement, with a star-shaped oscillating weight finished in rainbow.
Strictly limited to only 100 pieces the Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone will be available both online and in person at Zenith boutiques and selected retailers and will be priced at $62,300.
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