W&W 2020: Hermès Arceau Squelette

Parisian brand Hermès has introduced a new Arceau watch: the Arceau Squelette. Designed by Henri D’Origny, the brand’s Arceau watches have been in existence since 1978. Most notably, they feature a 40 mm case and italicised, swirling numerals. However, the Arceau Squelette goes a step further by including a skeletonised movement, visible not only through the caseback, but also through the gradient-smoked sapphire dial.

As is typical of Arceau watches, the Arceau Squelette is housed in a round, 40 mm stainless-steel case with asymmetric, stirrup-shaped lugs. Meanwhile, the gradient-shaded black sapphire dial features a black chapter ring with silvered Arabic numerals. Furthermore, a beaded minute circle separates it from the dial’s transparent centre. The centre of the dial reveals the movement’s anthracite wheels and open-worked oscillating weight.

Powering the Arceau Squelette is the automatic Sellita SW300 Skeleton – a variation that is currently only available for use by Hermès. Offering hours, minutes, and seconds, it has a power reserve of 42 hours and a frequency of 4 Hz. Additionally, the sapphire crystal caseback exposes the calibre’s skeletonised rotor, which is adorned with the Hermès motif.

Finally, the Arceau Squelette is available with a number of Hermès straps. Options include: black, graphite, abyss blue, Havana, or Étoupe alligator leather straps. Although the model is not a limited edition, it is currently of limited availability in Hermès boutiques. The watch is water-resistant to 30 m and is priced at 6,950 euros.

hermes.com

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