Design Matters
First-time exhibitor Hermès brings its brand of creativity and flair to SIHH
IT WAS AN indelible debut for Hermès, which worked a collection of stylish timepieces around the theme of “Let’s Play”, by combining its inimitable take on time with métiers d’art know-how.
Leading the line-up is Carré H, which updates the 2010 classic for a sportier, edgier and sleeker vibe. In a larger steel case this time, with polished and microbead-blasted finishes, it also features right-angled guilloche on the dial and faceted hands and numerals — all of which work together to create a play on light. On the numerals, zero was added to single digits to keep the dial’s design in harmonious proportion. As a final touch of pizazz, the second hand was painted in a bright colour (yellow for the dark grey dial and red for the black dial).
With Arceau Casaque, Hermès looks back to its equestrian roots and teams its iconic Arceau case with the Cavale motif. Found also on the knight from the brand’s Samarcande chess set, the steed's outline is expressed through various artistic techniques: Champlevé enamel, lacquer, and transfer. Presented in eyecatching tones of blue, red, green and yellow, it has an 18mm steel case that you can pair with a matching leather bracelet.
Last but not least is Arceau Pocket Millefiori, a precious pocket watch crafted with an ancient glassmaking technique known as millefiori (Italian for “a thousand flowers”). Handcrafted by Crystal Saint-louis, a glass manufacturer owned by Hermès, no two dials are identical. While millefiori has featured on Hermès dials since 2014, this year’s execution is markedly different. On the 48mm dial is an alligator scale pattern that matches impeccably with the black matte alligator leather back cover on the reverse.