When it comes to chronographs, few watch brands can match the illustrious heritage of Eberhard & Co. Since being founded in 1887, this Swiss watchmaker has been celebrated for emblematic stopwatch timepieces, including its two-pusher chronograph from 1935, the classy Tazio Nuvolari series launched in the 1990s and the revolutionary Chrono 4 conceived at the turn of the millennium. Continuing this rich tradition, the brand recently unveiled the Extra-fort Roue à Colonnes Retour en Vol.
This new model draws inspiration from the iconic Extra-fort collection, synonymous with precision and elegance since its inception during the 1940s. The designers at Eberhard & Co. have meticulously reimagined this classic, infusing it with contemporary touches while preserving the essence of its mid-century predecessors. Indeed, they have taken what they call a "return to the past with the eyes of the present" approach to create it.
The name Roue à Colonnes Retour en Vol – French for “Flyback Column Wheel” – cleverly encapsulates two coveted features of this chronograph: a column wheel for smooth activation and a flyback function allowing the chronograph to be reset and restarted with a single press.
Figuratively, the name also evokes the notion of “flying” on the wings of the eagle that adorns the Maison de l'Aigle in La Chaux-de-Fonds, home to Eberhard & Co.’s workshop and museum.
The dial of the Extra-fort Roue à Colonnes Retour en Vol reveals a refined eye for detail and design. It features a frappé effect in the centre, while the chronograph counters boast an azuré finish, creating texture and contrast. Rhodium-treated dauphine hands and applied hour markers enhance the dial’s elegance, while a tachymeter scale on the periphery adds practical functionality.
Meanwhile, the polished steel case, measuring 41mm by 14.20mm, strikes a good balance between wrist presence and comfort. The sizeable rectangular chronograph pushers provide tactile pleasure when operating the stopwatch function, while the screw-down crown, emblazoned with the brand’s “E” logo, ensures water resistance up to 50 metres.
Through the display back, the automatic movement powering the indications is revealed, showcasing the Geneva-wave decorated winding rotor and bridges, the oscillating balance, and the titular column wheel, which is blued to stand out.
A variety of colour combinations are available for the Extra-fort Roue à Colonnes Retour en Vol: silvered dial with silvered, black or blue counters; blue dial with silvered counters; and a striking gradient blue with matching counters. Each variant offers a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
What’s more, the watch can be paired with a classic alligator leather strap in black or blue (CHF 4,560) or a robust 5-link steel bracelet (CHF 5,120) for a sportier look.
For more information, please visit the brand’s website.
