Ace Jewelers x Elka «Diversity Series II»: A Refined Collector’s Statement in Hebrew & Eastern Arabic

As the Amsterdam-based luxury retailer Ace Jewelers marks its half-century milestone in 2025, the team has once again teamed up with the Swiss independent brand Elka Watch Co. to unveil the new “Diversity Series II” collection – two limited-edition timepieces that build on a well-established collaboration but weave in even sharper refinement across styling, case design and concept.

The new duo – model references MN03 (green dial with Eastern Arabic numerals) and MN04 (blue dial with Hebrew numerals) – represent the third chapter of Ace Jewelers × Elka collaborations, and a vivid celebration of cross-cultural graphic design on the dial. Whereas the inaugural Diversity Series from 2023 comprised four models with different script systems (Western Arabic, Eastern Arabic, Chinese and Hebrew numerals), here Elka and Ace focus in on two strong language families and present dials that track hours with the numeral sets themselves (1,2,3…) rather than the previous generation’s printed five-minute markers

. In short: a cleaner, more streamlined aesthetic in a smaller, sharper case.

The technical profile is impressive. Where the original four models measured around 40.8 mm by 10.8 mm and offered water resistance of just 30 m, the Diversity Series II pieces make a noticeable jump in proportions and performance. They arrive in a 36 mm diameter case, with lug-to-lug of 41.1 mm and a slimmer height of 10.5 mm – yet despite the smaller footprint, they boost water resistance to 50 m. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Inside the case, the Swiss Manufacture movement from La Joux-Perret – Calibre G101, no-date variant – runs at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) with a power reserve of 68 hours and regulation of ±7 seconds per day.

In other words, the same high-grade engine used in the earlier Diversity Series but now within a more compact, better-engineered case. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

From a visual design standpoint, the new editions lean into elegance and subtle channeling of historical cues. The domed sapphire crystal and sculpted lug architecture deliver a refined silhouette: direct-on, the watch appears sober and classical – but from the side, the pebble-like case carries a flowing curvature that avoids the slab-sided feel many smaller dress watches suffer. The signed crown sits at 3 o’clock and the case-back is transparent, offering a view of the movement beneath. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

The dials themselves are the story

. On the MN03 you’ll find a saturated green sunburst dial with Eastern Arabic hour numerals; on the MN04 a rich blue dial with Hebrew hour numerals. The elimination of the outer printed five-minute track (seen on the previous series) and the reduction of secondary printing deliver cleaner negative space, which helps balance the numerals and ensures readability despite the smaller case size. The concept underscores that watches can serve as cultural bridges – timepieces that carry meaning beyond the hours and minutes. Elka describes the MN03’s Eastern Arabic script as a “reminder of openness and dialogue,” while the MN04 honours Ace Jewelers’ CEO Alon Ben Joseph’s vintage Elka watch with Hebrew numerals in his personal collection. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Material options are generous. Traditionally the earlier models were available only with leather straps, but in the Series II the options broaden: each model comes standard with a leather strap (brown for MN03, dark blue for MN04), and buyers may opt for a NATO-style nylon strap or a stainless-steel beads-of-rice bracelet – a first for the line. At launch, images of the bracelet remain limited, so bracelet-geeks will have to wait for full details on links and clasp. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

On the commercial side, the limited editions are tightly controlled: just 50 numbered pieces of each model worldwide, produced to mark Ace Jewelers’ 50th anniversary. Pricing is €2,180 including VAT (strap version) or €2,230 including VAT (bracelet version). For buyers outside the EU (no VAT), pricing is €1,802/€1,843 (approx. $2,100/$2,150 USD at time of writing). Notably the price matches that of Elka’s standard-production N-Series, meaning collectors enjoy a themed limited edition without special-edition premium pricing. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Why It Matters

In an age when many collaborations feel superficial, the Ace Jewelers × Elka Diversity Series II stands out for its depth of concept, meaningful design and authentic refinement. By reducing case size (a smart move for many wrists), enhancing water resistance, and preserving a top-tier Swiss movement, the series demonstrates that limited editions need not carry heavy mark-ups or gimmicky features.

Moreover, the choice of cultural scripts for the hour numerals is not mere decoration. It signals a commitment to symbolic inclusivity. In a global collector market, watches that tell a story – in design or heritage – increasingly resonate. The Eastern Arabic and Hebrew scripts here uphold that principle. Combined with the restrained dial and improved case proportions, the pieces become a platform for cultural expression in miniature form.

For anyone who missed the original 2023 Diversity Series and thought it leaned too large or too playful, the Series II improves on key dimensions: it keeps the spirit of the first quartet (scripted numerals + Swiss automatic movement) but delivers in a lighter, more wearable package. The continued partnership between Ace Jewelers and Elka also shows a maturation of the collaboration: more focussed, better executed, and less reliant on novelty alone.

Considerations Before You Buy

• Wearability: At 36 mm×41.1 mm lug-to-lug and 10.5 mm thick, the case is compact and comfortable. However, the domed crystal and polished facets still give presence on wrist, so try on if you lean smaller or prefer ultra-slim dress watches.
• Numeral familiarity: If you’re not used to Eastern Arabic or Hebrew numerals, it will take a brief adjustment to read the hour at a glance – but that’s part of the appeal for many collectors seeking something distinct.
• Bracelet availability & detail: The beads-of-rice bracelet is a welcome upgrade option, but full specs (clasp type, adjustment links) were limited at launch. If bracelet is important to you, enquire before purchase.
• Limited availability: With only 50 pieces per variant, expect competition or waiting lists. While the price isn’t marked up above standard N-Series models, secondary market value may rise depending on demand.
• Service & heritage: Elka is an independent Swiss label relaunched in 2022, yet with historic roots traced to Amsterdam in 1877 (via the original Elka brand). Its movement partner, La Joux-Perret, is well regarded. For long-term ownership, ensure coverage by authorised service network. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Final Verdict

The Ace Jewelers × Elka Diversity Series II stands out as a collector-worthy, thoughtfully crafted limited edition that blends narrative, design and performance. In an era of oversaturated limited-edition drops, this one feels both purposeful and well-executed. Whether you’re drawn to the harmonious blend of script and form, the compact 36 mm size, the changeable strap/bracelet options or the refined movement inside, this pair merits a close look – especially if you appreciate watches with a story that moves beyond mere aesthetics.

For further details or to explore availability, visit Ace Jewelers’ official site or Elka Watch’s online boutique. Collectors of meaningful horology will find plenty to admire here.