Hermès, the iconic French luxury brand, has been synonymous with refinement for nearly two centuries. Known for its iconic bags, silk scarves, and equestrian creations, the brand has successfully expanded its universe into other areas. Among these, watchmaking occupies a special place, combining Swiss technical expertise with Parisian aesthetics. Let's take a look back at a unique and visionary watchmaking adventure.
A modest but promising start
Hermès took its first steps into watchmaking in 1928, in Geneva. At the time, the company created leather straps for watches made by leading Swiss brands. This collaboration quickly highlighted the company's ability to combine the luxury of its materials with the art of watchmaking. Very soon, Hermès was no longer content to simply adorn other people's watches and began creating its own designs.
One of the first major pieces was the double-wrap watch, which has become one of Hermès' timeless hallmarks. This subtle and original design already demonstrated a desire to stand out from the crowd.
Watchmaking independence: a strategic shift
The 1970s marked a turning point. Hermès decided to invest in in-house watchmaking by opening its own workshops in Switzerland, at the heart of the watchmaking industry. This decision was part of a quest for independence, both aesthetic and technical, and reflected the company's philosophy: to promote craftsmanship at every stage of creation.
In 2012, Hermès reached a new milestone with the Arceau Le Temps Suspendu model. A true masterpiece of watchmaking poetry, this watch offers a unique complication: suspending the display of time while continuing to count down in the background. This feat was recognized by the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève.
Flagship collections: between tradition and innovation
The Hermès watch collection stands out for its diversity and originality, while remaining faithful to the brand's codes. Each piece tells a story and reflects a unique vision of the art of time.
- Arceau: Launched in 1978 by Henri d'Origny, this collection draws inspiration from the equestrian world with its asymmetrical attachments reminiscent of stirrups. It combines elegance and subtlety.
- Cape Cod: Designed in 1991, this watch plays with the rectangular shape and introduces the double-wrap strap, a symbol of the brand.
- Slim by Hermès: With its clean lines and minimalist dials, this watch embodies modernity and refinement, while incorporating movements developed in-house.
- H08: A recent model, this sporty and contemporary watch is designed for customers seeking something new without compromising on luxury.
The luxury of time, between craftsmanship and technology
Hermès does not just create beautiful watches. The company invests in research and innovation, collaborating with renowned watchmakers and designers such as Philippe Delhotal. Far from being ostentatious, the watch complications serve a playful and poetic aesthetic. This is particularly true ofthe Hermès Galop, launched in 2019, which celebrates movement in a resolutely modern spirit.
This combination of tradition and modernity has enabled Hermès to retain its loyal customer base while also attracting new enthusiasts of fine watchmaking, transforming its watchmaking venture into a true success story, much like almost everything else the company has touched in recent years.