Back in 1965, NASA developed a fascinating liquid known as ferrofluid. This unique substance, described as “a liquid rocket fuel that can be drawn towards a pump inlet by applying a magnetic field in weightlessness,” caught the attention of an innovative designer from the Netherlands, Zelf Koelman.
Fast forward 50 years to the birth of one of the most extraordinary watches ever created – Ferrolic. Combining engineering, design, and artistry, Koelman harnessed the mesmerizing properties of ferrofluid to present time in a truly remarkable way. The Ferrolic watch showcases ferrofluid enclosed in an aluminum frame, guided by magnets to form the shapes of numbers. It’s like a living entity, with the moving spots resembling vibrant, dynamic creatures.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind Ferrolic, Koelman shares, “A few years ago, I fell in love with the magical properties of a small black ‘blob’ in a bottle. The position and shape of a floating drop of Ferro Fluid could be manipulated with a magnet. The dynamics and shape of this liquid body were very similar to a living being. I decided to let this entity live its own life and have a function. After a year of research and engineering, Ferrolic was born.”
The initial release of Ferrolic saw only 24 watches produced and sold for around $9,000 each. Nowadays, you can still experience this extraordinary timepiece at an accessible price – half of its original value. The Ferrolic watch stands as a testament to the fusion of science, art, and imagination, reminding us of the endless possibilities when innovation and creativity intertwine.
