Zenith and Time+Tide Ride the Final Wave with the Defy Skyline Skeleton White Surfer

Zenith and Time+Tide(leading independent watch site) have unveiled the final chapter of their acclaimed “Surfer Trilogy” with the Defy Skyline Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic — a bold, limited-edition timepiece that blends cutting-edge watchmaking with coastal cool. With only 100 pieces worldwide, this release marks the end of a creative collaboration that has redefined the spirit of modern sport-luxury watches.

The “White Surfer” continues the trilogy’s core design language, featuring a striking openworked gradient blue dialthat evokes the color and motion of the ocean. This deep, architectural layout offers more than just aesthetics — it delivers transparency and technical depth while staying unmistakably Zenith.

Ceramic Strength Meets Sleek Surf Style

Zenith crafted the 41mm case entirely from high-tech white ceramic, giving the watch a modern, minimalist profile that’s as durable as it is eye-catching. The polished surfaces shimmer under natural light, while the sapphire crystal(treated with anti-reflective coating) ensures a clear view of the dial’s layered structure. A sapphire display back offers a look into the movement below, and the case is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it more than capable for active days near the shore.

Inside: El Primero Precision

At the heart of the White Surfer beats Zenith’s legendary El Primero 3620 SK caliber — a high-frequency automatic movement running at 36,000 vibrations per hour (vph). This in-house engine features a silicon escape wheel and lever, improving long-term performance and resistance to magnetic fields. The movement offers a 55-hour power reserve and drives central hour and minute hands, along with a 1/10th of a second counter positioned at 6 o’clock.

Zenith finishes the movement with a light blue mainplate and a matching openworked rotor, both decorated with satin brushing that reflects the surf-and-sky theme.

Dial and Details That Pop

The openworked dial isn’t just functional — it’s a visual signature. Zenith uses gradient blue tones that darken toward the edges, giving the dial depth and contrast. The rhodium-plated hands and hour markers are faceted for light play and coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring readability from beach to boardroom.

Straps for Any Setting

Zenith includes both a white ceramic bracelet and an additional white rubber strap featuring a unique starry sky pattern. Both options come with a secure folding clasp, allowing wearers to shift between sporty and elegant looks with ease.

A Final Wave Worth Catching

Even though $19,600 is a little rich for a ceramic watch, the NEW Defy Skyline Skeleton White Surfer Ceramic is s a collector’s piece that marks the conclusion of one of Zenith’s most creative collaborations to date. With its fusion of technical mastery and surfer-inspired style, this watch proves that Swiss horology can ride the wave of lifestyle and performance.