Zenith Defy Classic Skeleton 95.9000.670/78.M9000

The Zenith Defy Classic Skeleton Ref. 95.9000.670/78.M9000 is a striking modern dress-sport watch that showcases Zenith’s contemporary design approach and mechanical prowess. Housed in a 41 mm brushed titanium case with a matching titanium bracelet, the watch feels both lightweight and robust on the wrist, balancing sporty flair with refined finishing. Its standout feature is the open-worked skeleton dial that offers a mesmerizing view into the movement’s inner workings, framed by applied stick indexes and luminous hands for clarity and depth. The date is subtly integrated at 6 o’clock, and a sapphire crystal protects the dial while also allowing a view through the transparent caseback. The watch maintains useful daily durability with 100 m water resistance.

At its heart beats Zenith’s in-house Elite 670 SK automatic movement, a reliable Swiss calibre that typically delivers around 50 hours of power reserve and operates at a smooth 4 Hz frequency, combining precision with everyday wearability. The skeletonized architecture not only enhances visual interest but also underscores the watch’s mechanical DNA, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who appreciate both aesthetics and horological substance. Whether worn casually or in more formal settings, the Defy Classic Skeleton blends technical transparency with modern materials and ergonomics—a testament to Zenith’s innovative yet approachable interpretation of a classic, high-end timepiece.

Reference: 95.9000.670/78.M9000

Dated: 2020

Bracelet: Titanium

Case Size: 41mm x 9.75mm thickness

Case Metal: Titanium

Movement: Elite 670 - Automatic

Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date

Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty card

Crystal: Sapphire

Bracelet size: 7.5"

Case has no wear. Bracelet has little to no wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear.

Zenith was founded in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot in Le Locle, Switzerland, and is celebrated as one of the first watch manufactures to fully integrate every aspect of production under one roof. This groundbreaking approach laid the foundation for over a century of innovation and precision. Zenith’s most iconic achievement came in 1969 with the launch of the El Primero, one of the world’s first automatic chronograph movements—and still one of the most accurate, beating at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour. This movement would go on to power legendary models and even find its way into watches by other major Swiss brands.

Zenith’s current lineup honors its legacy while embracing modernity. The Chronomaster series continues to showcase the high-frequency prowess of the El Primero, offering split-second accuracy and open-heart dial designs. The Defy collection pushes the brand into futuristic territory with skeletonized dials, cutting-edge materials, and innovative escapements. Meanwhile, the Pilot line draws on Zenith’s history of aviation timepieces, featuring oversized crowns and vintage-inspired aesthetics. Known for its relentless pursuit of precision and its role in shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking, Zenith remains popular amongst collectors who value performance, heritage, and technical artistry in equal measure.