ADMIRE THE FANTASY
Once again Hermès puts time is in a league of its own. The Arceau Squelette, unveiled for the first time in 2010, returns at a gallop with an enchanting interpretation.
“Mieux vaut subtilité que force” (Subtlety is better than strength) states a French proverb. When we discover the new Arceau Squelette, we think to ourselves that Hermès has ever-so delicately embodied this adage. Its smoky-hued dial hints to more than it actually reveals. Black around the edges, it progressively lightens to become transparent as it reaches the center. The hour chapter and its circular-grained finished minute tracker appear to orbit over the unveiled caliber-driven components. The anthracite-colored bridges and gears as well as the skeletonized oscillating weight offer us a spectacle of lightness with the fine hour and minute hands. This attractive ethereal composition provides perfect time data readability. Incidentally, the timepiece embraces all the adornments inspired by the equestrian world and imagined by Henri d’Origny in 1978. We discover the typical slimline, slanted Arabic numerals now silvered and openworked as well as the asymmetrical stirrup-shaped lugs.
Its Swiss-made self-winding movement, nestling in a 40 mm-diameter steel case, 1 mm less than the previous version, delivers a power reserve of at least 42 hours to the watch.
The leather strap which complements the Arceau Squelette is proposed in a myriad of colors, a tradition ever-so dear to the Parisian house. Black, graphite, deep sea blue, Havana and oakum, whatever you choose, you can rest assured that this elegant Hermès watch will match your mood and style impeccably.
Price: on request hermes.com
By Dan Diaconu