Hermès has redefined watch artistry with its latest addition to the Arceau collection, the Hermès Silk Marquetry Watch, designed by the visionary Chinese-born, Finland-based designer Tong Ren. This masterpiece reimagines an originally homeware-themed design for a 38mm watch, featuring a horse‘s head morphing into a mesmerizing geometric pattern accented by 70 bezel-set diamonds.
Ren employs shards of red, cobalt, ochre, and green in an intricate silk-thread marquetry array, reminiscent of stained glass. This demanding craft enhances the Arceau’s equestrian-inspired shape, a hallmark since Henri d’Origny introduced it in 1978. The watch’s elegant case, with its distinctive stirrup-like asymmetric form, serves as a canvas for Hermès’ innovative designs.
The Craftsmanship: Designer Dials
The dial, a true mini masterpiece, is encrusted with 123 diamonds, complementing those on the bezel. Nearly 400 silk threads are meticulously laid by hand, each poised to capture light, providing a dynamic and tactile quality unobtainable by print or lacquer. The diamonds are nestled within the silk-filled champlevé engravings, highlighting Hermès’ dedication to exquisite craftsmanship through its designer dials.
For more unique artistic approaches, explore how Blender shaders achieve a hand-painted look, combining traditional aesthetics with digital innovation.
Powered by the in-house Hermès H1912 calibre, the timepiece features a sapphire case back, offering a glimpse of the brand’s iconic H motifs. Available in two color variations—beige or dark brown—each watch comes with a matching alligator leather strap, hand-finished for perfection at the Hermès leather workshop. This exquisite piece embodies what luxury watches aspire to be, perfectly blending artistry and precision.
This exquisite timepiece is priced at £79,000, available for those who enquire at hermes.com. With its fusion of traditional textile techniques and modern horological innovation, the Hermès creation stands as a testament to the brand’s artistic legacy.
Source: wallpaper.com
Frequently asked questions
Who designed the Hermès Silk Marquetry Watch?
The Hermès Silk Marquetry Watch was designed by the visionary Chinese-born, Finland-based designer Tong Ren.
What materials are used in the Hermès watch dial?
The watch dial features silk-thread marquetry using shards of red, cobalt, ochre, and green, complemented by diamonds nestled within champlevé engravings.
How much does the Hermès Silk Marquetry Watch cost?
The Hermès Silk Marquetry Watch is priced at £79,000.