Perrelet’s latest releases, unveiled for Geneva Watch Days 2025, are nothing short of arresting: the Cleopatra and Joséphine collections exemplify the heights of Swiss micromechanical artistry and the brand’s storied watchmaking heritage. These new lines mark an evolution of the famed Double Rotor technology, now reimagined through the lens of high jewellery and grace, blending technical supremacy with lyrical aesthetics inspired by historic female icons.
An Artistic Revelation
The dials of both the Cleopatra and Joséphine collections are visual celebrations, alive with motion and iridescence. The Cleopatra models evoke the mystique of ancient Egypt; the central device resembles an opulent fan, delicately set with thirty diamonds and adorned with mother-of-pearl inlays, radiating an undeniably regal air. This centrepiece is complemented by a sunray motif that draws the eye outward, capturing shifting light and producing a luminous play across the dial with each movement. At twelve o’clock, a singular diamond sits, anchoring the composition.
Conversely, the Joséphine collection is the embodiment of imperial French elegance, here the dial is graced by an ethereal cascade of diamonds, arranged in elongated lines that, when set in motion by the Double Rotor, mimic the jubilant explosion of fireworks. Round, faceted hour markers in rhodium gleam from the dial, adding a further note of refinement. Both collections offer five evocative dial colours, each thoughtfully named and designed to reflect the historic and geographic roots of their namesakes, from Perle du Nile to Velours de Napoléon, imbuing each reference with distinct character.
Calibre P-181-H
Nestled at the heart of these new Perrelet creations lies the in-house calibre P-181-H, a movement that is both a technical and aesthetic triumph. This automatic calibre is the fruit of five dedicated years of development, engineered to push the Double Rotor concept to new limits. What is especially notable here is the simultaneous presence of two oscillating weights: the lower, openworked and bearing Perrelet’s own insignia, and the upper, the visual star, which spins atop the dial. While the case-back rotor is set on ball bearings, ensuring longevity and fluidity, the dial-side rotor is mounted on a ruby, a choice that significantly reduces friction and aids in achieving a robust forty-two hour power reserve.
Mechanically, the calibre beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, reflecting a commitment to chronometric accuracy. It is comprised of one hundred parts and twenty-six jewels, with the Incabloc® shock absorber protecting the balance for reliable timekeeping. The refinement extends to the finishing: the rhodium-plated mainplate is adorned with circular graining, while the bridges glow with Côtes de Genève, underlining Perrelet’s mastery of the decorative arts. Not only does this movement deliver technical integrity, but it does so with a visual flourish that can be fully admired through the anti-reflective sapphire porthole visible on the case back.
Grade 2 Titanium
In terms of construction, Perrelet chose to work with grade 2 titanium for the cases, striking an intelligent balance between durability and wear comfort. With a diameter of 36.5 mm and a thickness of 12.9 mm, the case presents a harmonious profile that sits elegantly on the wrist. Each watch is offered with a choice between a polished bezel or one set with sixty-four diamonds—and here, Perrelet’s attention to detail is apparent, with each diamond being G-H colour, VS1 grade and full cut for optimal brilliance. Polished lugs and case middle further affirm the luxurious orientation of the collection. Anti-reflective sapphire crystal, front and back, guarantee legibility without distraction and allow uninterrupted enjoyment of both dial and movement.
The five-row bracelet in matching titanium, alternating between polished and satin finishes, fastens securely via a folding clasp, itself decorated with the Perrelet logo. For added versatility and comfort, the watches are accompanied by a complementary calf leather strap, the colour of which echoes the dial, and a quick-release mechanism enables effortless switching between bracelets, offering genuinely contemporary refinement.
Perrelet Cleopatra & Josephine
With the Cleopatra and Joséphine collections (6000€, respectively 8500€ for diamond set bezel), Perrelet has manifestly succeeded in marrying the rigour of Swiss mechanical engineering with a poetic sensibility that honours both horological innovation and feminine sophistication. The Double Rotor is not just technical showmanship, it becomes the beating heart of a living composition, animated with diamonds and fine materials, brought to life with every twist of the wrist. The thoughtful selection of materials, the artistic dial creations, and the profound technical advancements all coalesce into watches that are, indeed, contemporary masterpieces with authentic roots.
For those who appreciate watchmaking’s finest traditions coupled with a modern approach to design and comfort, these Perrelet models mark a rare and exhilarating proposition. Their availability from December 2025, with early purchase options in select markets, will be a moment keenly anticipated by aficionados worldwide.
