Ernest Borel
Ernest Borel is a Swiss watch brand founded in Neuchâtel in 1856 and now based in Le Noirmont. It makes automatic and quartz wristwatches for men and women, mostly in dress and casual styles.
| Founded | 1856, Neuchâtel |
|---|---|
| Founder | Jules Borel |
| Headquarters | Le Noirmont, Switzerland |
| Listing | Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 2014 |
| Products | Automatic and quartz watches |
| Website | ernestborel.ch |
What is Ernest Borel?
Ernest Borel is a Swiss watchmaker producing automatic and quartz wristwatches for men and women. Its collections lean towards dress and casual designs, and the brand has long concentrated on export markets outside Europe, particularly in Asia.
History
The company was founded in 1856 in Neuchâtel by Jules Borel. In the nineteenth century it won awards at international exhibitions, including a Premium Award in Philadelphia in 1876 and a distinction in Paris in 1878. The Borel family ran the business until 1975, when it was sold during the quartz crisis and joined the Synchron Group.
Chinese investors acquired Ernest Borel in 1997 and appointed Raphaël Boillat as chief executive. Production moved from La Chaux-de-Fonds to a new factory in Le Noirmont. In July 2014 Ernest Borel Holdings Limited listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code 1856, covering the Asian operations, and from 2018 Citychamp Watch and Jewellery Group held a stake.
Distribution
The brand has expanded its marketing in mainland China, where it opened a shop in Beijing in 2007, alongside its international dealer network.
Why it matters
Ernest Borel shows how a historic Swiss name can be repositioned around Asian demand under Asian ownership.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Ernest Borel from?
Ernest Borel is a Swiss watch brand founded in Neuchâtel in 1856 and now based in Le Noirmont.
Who owns Ernest Borel?
Chinese investors bought the company in 1997, its holding company listed in Hong Kong in 2014, and Citychamp Watch and Jewellery Group held a stake from 2018.