A true tribute to the elegance of Hermès, the new Arceau Robe Légère watch captivates with a strikingly beautiful equestrian design set against the backdrop of a deep navy dial. This piece, originally conceived by designer Henri d’Origny in 1978, brings a fresh perspective on the iconic Arceau watch. Featuring an asymmetrical stirrup-shaped lug, this reinvention retains the Arceau’s signature rounded aesthetic while infusing it with the artistry of the French maison.
Inspired by Hermès’ Robe Légère silk scarf by artist Théo de Gueltzl, this design features a silver-coated horse rearing up, its form framed by a 38 mm white gold case set with 71 sparkling diamonds. At the heart of the watch is the intricate art of paillonné enameling. This delicate technique, rarely mastered in contemporary watchmaking, involves layering silver spangles beneath translucent enamel to create a shimmering, three-dimensional effect. Through each transparent layer, the intricate spangles add a sense of movement and depth, bringing the image to life with an enchanting play of light.
The process behind this flowery motif begins with the careful preparation of a dark enamel base—a blend of finely ground glass powder and natural oils—painstakingly applied to the dial with a brush. After drying and undergoing high-temperature firings, silver leaf cutouts in the shape of flowers are placed atop the dial, secured in place by further kiln firings that ensure durability and brilliance. The result is a scene that captures the movement of a free and untameable horse, frozen mid-rear with a fluid, almost ethereal beauty.
Completing the watch’s elegant aesthetic is a matte abyss-blue alligator strap, crafted with the same precision and leatherwork expertise Hermès is renowned for. Inside the timepiece, the Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement ensures precise performance. Limited to just 24 pieces, the Arceau Robe Légère is both a collector’s piece and a testament to Hermès’ commitment to tradition, artistry, and the enduring allure of French craftsmanship.