The first thought that strikes upon seeing Hermès’ newest haute horlogerie marvel is simply, what is going on? A masterstroke in watchmaking, the timepiece conceals an action-packed pop art painting that first dizzies the mind with how someone packed in the punch and then calms it with the acceptance of genius. Called the Arceau Hermès Locomotion, the limited-edition watch, only 12 to be made, comes in white gold with a soft mauve alligator strap, handcrafted in the Hermès Horloger workshops.
With the essentials out of the way, let’s dive into what truly sets this piece apart: whimsical design and elegant mechanics. The miniature painting that’s the cynosure here is inspired by French artist Ugo Bienvenu’s futuristic “Locomotion” silk scarf design. What looks like magic is the coming together of a human hand and mind, of dexterity in application of brushstrokes, layer by layer, in vibrant pinks, blues, greens, and yellows. The artwork also includes a pop-art vision of the Hermès Faubourg Saint-Honoré boutique. It features riders on futuristic horse-shaped pods in a comic book aesthetic that allows fantasy to live and dwell on your wrists rent-free.
That 3D effect you noticed? For added depth, a second painting layer is applied to the underside of the domed sapphire crystal. Framing this fantasy are 71 brilliant-cut diamonds, while a rose-cut diamond sits within the crown. The 38mm Arceau case conceals the Swiss-made Manufacture Hermès H1912 automatic movement. Only 3.7mm thick, with a power reserve of 50 hours, the Arceau Hermès Locomotion is a nod to the experimental fashionista. Price on request.
