The Hermès Arceau watch, designed by Henri d’Origny in 1978, has become a canvas for the brand’s creativity in high watchmaking. The Arceau Duc Attelé embodies this spirit perfectly, showcasing a fusion of complex watchmaking with the equestrian themes synonymous with Hermès.
The Arceau Duc Attelé’s understated yet striking 43mm case comes in polished titanium or rose gold, highlighting the union of Hermès’ style and technical expertise. The true marvel lies within: the first-ever combination of a high-frequency movement with a central triple-axis tourbillon and a unique “tuning-fork” minute repeater.
The triple-axis tourbillon boasts a mesmerizing dance, completing rotations at three speeds on its intricate, triple mirror-polished titanium carriage. This carriage takes the form of interlacing double “Hs,” a nod to the union of Émile Hermès and Julie Hollande in 1900, echoing the Parisian boutique’s iconic ironwork.
The dial is a captivating display of technical prowess and thematic connection. A curved, eccentric hour circle frames the tourbillon, while Arabic numerals tilt forward like a galloping horse. Claw-shaped hands, their blue hue complementing the power reserve indicator, enhance the view of this horological masterpiece.
The titanium model’s dynamic striped guilloché decoration evokes sound-wave propagation, mirroring the minute repeater hammers sculpted in the shape of a horse. Striking the elongated gongs with their cathedral chime-like tones, these hammers echo the “Duc Attelé,” a four-wheeled carriage drawn by two horses. This theme is further reinforced by the openworked gears on the caseback, designed to resemble the Duc Attelé’s wheels.
The Arceau Duc Attelé isn’t just visually stunning. The high-frequency Manufacture H1926 movement (named after the year of renovation works on the Faubourg Saint-Honoré boutique) ensures precise rhythm. Activated by a dedicated slide, the minute repeater chimes the hours, quarters, and minutes with exceptional clarity, amplified by the lightweight and acoustically superior case material.
The anthracite PVD treatment on the mainplate and bridges creates a striking contrast, highlighting the light-colored chiming mechanism and its intricate details. The openworked sapphire crystal strikework bridge not only enhances the sound but also showcases the meticulous hand-finishing, gold chatons, and mirror-polished screws.
Limited to 24 pieces each in titanium and rose gold versions, the Arceau Duc Attelé is a true collector’s item. Each timepiece comes paired with a luxurious alligator strap, crafted in the Hermès Horloger workshops, completing this exquisite marriage of haute horlogerie and equestrian heritage.
