IN THE POCKET

An anachronism in contemporary times, pocket watches have become collector items, their appeal enhanced by these esoteric decorative arts

Hermès (top) has declared that its theme for 2016 is “nature at full gallop”, evoking its equestrian heritage. It takes its inspiration from a silk scarf created by artist Annie Faivre, which depicts philosopher Platon’s stroll through the gardens of Academus. The trio of Arceau pocket watches are brought to life with a plethora of artistic skills including enamelling and engraving.

Maîtres du Temps (right) combines Chinese art with Swiss mechanics for the latest project under its Fine Arts Chapter. The watchmaker has collaborated with the multi-hyphenate Chinese artist Fan Zeng on a series of 12 pocket watches, each depicting a zodiac sign. A white onyx dial is the canvas for this endeavour, and the final result mimics the exquisiteness of a porcelain painting. The hunter case back reveals a tourbillon and a meticulously decorated movement.