1 in stock

Ernest Borel Kaleidoscope Cocktail 17 Jewels

This Ernest Borel ‘Cocktail’ watch features a unique ‘kaleidoscope’ mystery dial. Time is indicated not by traditional hands, but by two rotating discs with arrow markers that create changing geometric patterns as they turn. The watch is housed in a gold-plated round case, which includes a central exhibition window to display the 17-jewel mechanical movement. The time is read against a fixed outer chapter ring with applied, gold-toned hour markers. This timepiece is presented on a black leather strap.

1 in stock

1 in stock

General

Brand

Model Line

Kaleidoscope

Manufactured

Switzerland

Department

Women

Dial Color

Black

Case

Case Shape

Round

Bezel

Fixed

Case Material

Gold Plate

,

Stainless Steel

Case Width

25.4mm

Case Height

32.2mm

Strap / Bracelet

Strap Material

Leather

Strap Color

Black

Clasp

Buckle

Lug Width

12mm

Max Wrist Size

8.5"

Movement

Movement

Manual Wind

Accuracy

>15 seconds

The movement showed a daily accuracy deviation ranging from 0 to 15 seconds across six positions.

Extras

Original Box

No

Original Papers

No

Warranty Every watch sold by Ottuhr comes with a 1-year mechanical warranty. Select pieces may also include additional guarantees or extended coverage.

1-Year Ottuhr Warranty

Overview

Every so often, a watch comes along that reminds us that horology can be more than just the stoic pursuit of accuracy, it can be playful, artistic, and utterly mesmerizing. The Ernest Borel “Cocktail” watch is, without question, one of the most brilliant and whimsical timepieces ever created. It is a true icon of mid-century design, a watch that turns the simple act of telling time into a captivating performance. This is not just a watch; it’s a piece of kinetic art, a conversation starter, and a fantastic example of the creative spirit that defined the post-war era.

Ernest Borel, a Swiss brand with a history dating back to 1856, achieved its greatest fame with the launch of the Cocktail watch in 1953. It was a stroke of genius. At a time of renewed optimism and artistic expression, Borel patented a “mystery dial” that used a system of stacked, rotating discs to create a constantly shifting kaleidoscope effect. The top disc, which acts as the seconds hand, spins freely, while the hour and minute hands are two triangular pointers printed on separate transparent discs that float below. The effect is magical, a dynamic, hypnotic pattern that is constantly in motion. It was a smash hit, particularly in the American and Asian markets, becoming a beloved symbol of feminine elegance and playful sophistication.

This particular example is a stunning representation of the classic Cocktail design. Housed in a svelte, gold-plated ladies’ case, it features one of the most desirable dial patterns: a dramatic black and gold sunburst. As the seconds disc rotates, the intricate geometric patterns create a dazzling, kaleidoscopic animation that is simply enchanting to watch. Time is indicated by two floating red arrow pointers, which adds a fantastic pop of color against the dark, dynamic background. Powering this kinetic display is a robust 17-jewel, manual-wind Swiss movement, a reliable caliber that was built to handle the extra torque required to turn the animated discs.

 

Timing: The watch has been measured with a timegrapher at six different positions. The rate, amplitude, and beat error are within acceptable ranges.

Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, etc are working as expected.

Integrity: The movement shows no signs of damage, rust, or corrosion, with all components appearing clean and well-maintained.

Authenticity: Each timepiece is evaluated and authenticated in-house. This watch is guaranteed to be correct to its manufacturer and time period.

Warranty: This timepiece includes a 1-year mechanical warranty, activated upon the date of purchase. 

Shipping: This timepeice includes complimentary insured shipping within all 50 states. 

Returns: If, for any reason, you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, you may return the product for a full refund within 30 days from the date you received or signed for the item.

More Watches