Jewellery

Hermès’ latest pocket watch is a work of art

By Linnéa Pesonen

Photo: Anita Schlaefli

With only three pieces produced, the French luxury house's newest release is set to become a coveted timepiece to cherish forever

Pocket watches may just be the most elegant way to infuse a touch of old-world sophistication into your attire. On that note, Hermès’ latest release offers a timepiece that serves as both a statement-making accessory and a work of art. Dubbed ‘The Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider,’ the watch – initially designed by Philippe Delhotal in 2015 – features a reimagined version of the vibrant ‘Mysterious Rider’ silk scarf motif, envisioned by Dutch illustrator and designer Viktor Hachmang.

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Photo: Anita Schlaefli

Photo: Anita Schlaefli

Hachmang, known for drawing inspiration from Japanese art and comic book pop culture, artfully blends these influences with bold, paintbox brights and a futuristic flair. This is evident in the enigmatic motorcycle rider storming through the streets of Paris, which adorns the cover of Hermès’ new pocket watch, available in a limited edition of just three pieces. Boasting contrasting red and blue hues balanced by metallic tones, the creation of the cover demanded painstaking attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship. The intricate process involved carving tiny cells into the metal, filling them with coloured glass powders mixed with natural oils, and firing the piece multiple times in a kiln at over 800°C to permanently fuse the pigments.

Housed in a refined white gold case with an ivory enamel dial, the timepiece is powered by the cutting-edge Manufacture Hermès H1950 ultra-thin mechanical self-winding movement. It is finished with a rich crimson strap and a matching pouch in matte alligator leather, perfectly complementing the masterpiece, destined to be treasured and passed down for generations to come.