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Two-tone is back with a vengeance, albeit with a twist, writes Justin Ng

ALWAYS A FIRST

Zenith scores a double first with the Defy Classic Two-Tone. It is the first Defy Classic to be dressed in rose gold, apart from the collection’s maiden twotone model. The 41mm bi-colour case comprises titanium and an 18k rose gold bezel in brush finishing on the flat surface, while the tapered edges are smooth polished to create a contrasting effect. This mixed finishing is extended towards the bracelet, where titanium and 18k rose gold are used to create a complementary result. Hour markers and hands are gold plated, coated with Super-LumiNova SLN C1, and fixed atop an in-house open-worked movement. The C1 variant lends a glow in the dark that skews towards white.

While Zenith is revered for its range of high-beat chronograph movements oscillating at 5Hz, for the Defy Classic Two-Tone, the industry standard of a 4Hz automatic Elite 670 SK movement is preferred. Considering the watch is much more straightforward in terms of functionality and purpose, it is understandable that the brand has decided upon a movement based on the one reserved for its Elite collection of dress watches. Nonetheless, it wouldn’t be a Zenith movement without additional technological advancements in the silicon escape wheel and lever. Silicon is known for eliminating friction, impervious to magnetism, hence improving stability and accuracy. Besides 48 hours of power reserve, the movement is fitted with a skeletonised date wheel. Since the introduction of the Defy Classic range last year, it has ushered in a previously unexplored niche by the brand. That being sophisticated with a hint of sportiness, whose versatility means the watch can be worn to any occasion. The Defy Classic TwoTone has just amped it up.

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