Since the launch of the Zenith Defy Skyline collection in 2021, the world has been patiently waiting for a chronograph version of this integrated sports watch. The Swiss watchmaker has a long history in the field of chronographs, and Zenith surprised everyone by waiting so long. But alas, this year’s “Watches & Wonders” event finally ushered in the release of the Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph, and what a striking new addition it is.
With a 42mm wide stainless steel octagonal profile and an in-house El Primero 3600 high-frequency automatic movement, these watches are rightfully one of the most talked-about watches at W&W 2024. They are available in three dial finishes, metallic black, blue or silver, each embellished with the iconic four-pointed star engraving. They are beautifully presented with a simple chronograph layout, and the in-house movement provides a precision that is difficult to surpass.
But high levels of execution often come with high prices, so this is not a fake watches for sale that everyone can easily afford. So what are some affordable alternatives to the Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph? Here are our picks…
Tissot PRX Chronograph Powermatic 80
The Tissot PRX Chronograph is an integrated sports watch with a similar tonneau-shaped case and three-eye dial to the Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph. Retailing for less than one-seventh the price, the PRX features a 40mm-wide stainless steel case, a sleek polished bezel and Swatch Group’s popular Powermatic 80 movement, which has an 80-hour power reserve and anti-magnetic properties. The dial is available in silver or blue vertical brushed finishes, or there’s also a very cool green dial variant with a unique waffle-like texture.
Q Timex Falcon Eye Chronograph
If we’re talking about affordable alternatives, then American watchmaker Timex is likely to make an appearance. The brand has a large selection of affordable watches, and for those who like an integrated chronograph, we recommend the Q Timex Falcon Eye Chronograph.
Longines Conquest Chronograph
If it’s a Swiss-made chronograph you’re after, the Longines Conquest Chronograph collection might be your best bet. While lacking some of the integrated construction of the Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph, it’s still a handsome sports discount replica watches with a 42mm-wide stainless steel case, ceramic tachymeter bezel, sapphire crystal, and 100m water resistance. Its dial is sleek and simple, with a three-hour layout and a subtle black border around the tilted hour markers. The Longines Conquest Chronograph also features the Calibre L895, which has a silicon balance spring and a 59-hour power reserve.
Herbelin Cap Camarat Chronograph
Another affordable Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph alternative comes from French watchmaker Herbelin. With a screw-decorated bezel reminiscent of the AP Royal Oak, a one-piece 42mm-wide profile, and a textured dial reminiscent of elements of the Defy Skyline, this watch looks and feels more expensive than its price tag would suggest. The horizontally striped dial features two snailed and recessed counters, as well as solid baton hands and markers with luminous material. Inside is a Sellita automatic movement that offers a 56-hour power reserve.
Baume et Mercier Riviera Chronograph
Our last affordable alternative to the Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph is the Baume et Mercier Riviera. This is a great integrated sports replica men watches that shares many design elements with the Zenith. It features a 1970s-style dodecagonal stainless steel case that is 43mm wide, a screwed bezel, and an engraved wave pattern on the dial inspired by the French coastline of the same name. The display is a bit busy, but it does offer a ton of specs, including time, chronograph, day, and date complications. The watch is powered by a Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph movement with a 48-hour power reserve.
