This equestrian influence shines through in the stirrup shape which transforms the customary case lugs into particularly elegant fastenings. The asymmetry between 12 and 6 o’clock adds to the originality of a system that integrates the leather strap in a uniquely seamless way. The case and strap are entirely interdependent, and each makes an equally strong contribution to the watch’s identity. The latter is further accentuated by the sloping hour numerals on the dial, which appear to be in motion, as if trotting around an equestrian arena.

Leather straps are an integral part of all Hermès watches and have been crafted in its Swiss workshop since 2006. They are cut from specific hides – mostly Barenia calfskin – and finished with traditional saddle stitching. Tracing its watchmaking history back to the first watch strap, which appears in a 1912 photo on the wrist of the founder’s great-granddaughter, Hermès seized the opportunity of its 100th anniversary to equip the Arceau collection with one of its two first entirely exclusive Manufacture movements. The line was thus extended in 2012 to include an extremely prestigious range of ladies’ watches.