Hermès Introduces Cape Cod And Arceau Cheval Cosmique
Hermés was founded in 1837. Back then, the company sold well-made harnesses and bridles for the carriage trade. Today, we’re more accustomed to seeing luxury watches roll out into the brand’s boutiques around the globe. The Cape Cod has, somehow, become something of a crossover icon for the colliding worlds of Haute Couture and Horlogerie.
Without a doubt, Hermès’ calling card is fine craftsmanship. The latest version of the Cape Cod, originally designed by Henri d’Origny in 1991, is a testament to that. It is an embodiment of the labor-intensive methods behind high fashion. And with an edgier, more industrial appearance, it looks set to win a few new fans. The hammered surfaces of the case are a strong look. It results in a truly unforgettable appearance. Despite its small size — the minimalistic 316L stainless steel case measures 23mm across — packs a punch.
Hermès’ legacy
Additionally, its extended lugs inspired by Chaîne d’Ancre evoke Hermès’ legacy. The shaded-black lacquered dial is decorated with the same hammered technique. And, I must say, it has stolen my heart. The hands are silver-toned and perfectly distinguish themselves from the black background. Completing its austere design is a black barenia calf leather strap with steel pin buckle.
I’m obsessed with this watch. Even though it’s another quartz watch. It is so interesting and so arresting and just so wearable that I think I need it in my collection. Thanks to its minimalism, it fits seamlessly with the image of the French bourgeoisie. This model displays the nuances of a refined object while concentrating the essence of what modern women demand from a watch and their wardrobe.
Hermès Arceau Cheval Cosmique
The other two watches introduce by Hermès embody a post-decadence style that flirts with dreams and sparked imaginations. Two limited editions of 24 pieces each are utterly unlike the black Cape Cod although the timepiece was also designed by Henri d’Origny but in 1978.
…designed by Italian artist Gianpaolo Pagni.
The first thing that catches the eye is the alluring hand-engraved motif in white gold that represents the Cheval Cosmique graphic designed by Italian artist Gianpaolo Pagni. The model with engraving comes with two different variations — with mother-of-pearl and white enamel dial, or with an aventurine dial.
Mother-of-pearl
The mother-of-pearl Arceau features a 38 mm white gold case and a bezel set with 82 diamonds. Black lacquer picks out a series of waves as they roll across the dial. Black Arabic numerals and minute dots stand out starkly against the pure background. White gold hands tie everything together with the white gold engraving.
…something spectacular that makes the most of the aventurine glass base.
It is the second model, however, that demonstrates how detail-oriented Hermés is. The French brand could take shortcuts and create the same proposition but in different colors, but instead, it took the extra effort to change the design to come up with something spectacular that makes the most of the aventurine glass base.
Extra effort
The Arceau with an aventurine dial is incredibly elegant. Consequently, the color contrast between the white gold case and the dark blue dial allows the chromatic depth of aventurine dial to shine through. There is an attractive rawness to the material, but it still comes across very refined. As such, this version of Arceau is the essence of Hermès heritage.
A see-through case back reveals caliber H1912 (placed in 38mm versions) and H1912 (for the 41mm models). These mechanical self-winding movements are nearly identical with a difference in size. Both of them can generate a power reserve of 50 hours. Both tick at 28,800vph and features hours and minutes on the dial side. To learn more about the effort Hermés is putting into its movement manufacture, visit the official site here.
