Hermès has a surprisingly rich history in watchmaking — though many people know the brand more for its leather goods and fashion, its watches have been around for almost a century.
Early Years (1920s–1950s)
These watches were typically stylish dress pieces, sometimes using Hermès leather straps (a key differentiator even back then).al movements were made in Switzerland.
Hermès began selling watches in 1928, when it partnered with Swiss watchmakers to create elegant timepieces for its Paris boutique.
Early Hermès watches were often powered by Movado or Jaeger-LeCoultre movements and sold under the Hermès name.
Strengthening Swiss Ties (1970s–1990s)
During the 1980s and 1990s, Hermès introduced iconic models like the Arceau (1978, designed by Henri d’Origny, inspired by stirrup shapes) and the Cape Cod (1991, with its square-within-a-rectangle case).
In 1978, Hermès established La Montre Hermès in Biel, Switzerland — a dedicated subsidiary to focus on watch production.
This move solidified Hermès as a true watchmaker rather than just a fashion house selling branded watches.
Becoming a True Watch Manufacture (2000s–Present)
- Hermès has steadily invested in becoming more vertically integrated, acquiring stakes in movement manufacturers like Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier (for mechanical calibers).
- Modern Hermès watches often use in-house or exclusive calibers, placing them in the category of serious Swiss haute horlogerie.
- Standout modern collections include:
- Arceau L’Heure De La Lune (2019) — a unique moonphase complication that wowed collectors.
- Slim d’Hermès (2015) — minimal and refined, with custom typography by Philippe Apeloig.
- H08 (2021) — a sportier, contemporary watch line aimed at a younger audience.
Design Signature
Hermès is known for combining playful French design with Swiss watchmaking quality:
- Unique typography, asymmetrical cases, and whimsical complications.
- High-quality leather straps (still made in Hermès’ workshops).
Hermès has produced several notable watches over the years, blending French design elegance with Swiss watchmaking precision. Here are the most iconic Hermès timepieces:
1. Arceau (1978)
- Designed by Henri d’Origny, inspired by horse stirrups.
- Features an asymmetrical round case with sloping lugs and classic Hermès elegance.
- Known for its refined simplicity and timeless style.
2. Cape Cod (1991)
- Designed by Henri d’Origny as well.
- Square-within-a-rectangle case, inspired by the anchor chain motif of Hermès jewelry.
- Often paired with double-wrap leather straps — a signature look.
3. Heure H (1996)
- Designed by Marc Berthier, with a bold “H” shaped case representing Hermès.
- A modern, fashion-forward watch that became an icon for the brand.
4. Arceau L’Heure De La Lune (2019)
- A high-complication watch featuring dual moonphase displays that orbit across the dial.
- Combines Hermès’ whimsical design with haute horlogerie craftsmanship.
5. Slim d’Hermès (2015)
- Minimalist and elegant, with in-house automatic movements.
- Features custom Hermès typography on the dial, emphasizing subtle design sophistication.
6. H08 (2021)
- A sportier, contemporary collection aimed at a younger audience.
- Rounded-square case with bold, modern aesthetics while maintaining Hermès refinement.
Design Signature
Hermès is known for combining playful French design with Swiss watchmaking quality:
High-quality leather straps (still made in Hermès’ workshops).
Unique typography, asymmetrical cases, and whimsical complications.
