When it comes to watches, Hermès can look back on a rich history. Part of this history is de Arceau, which was designed in 1978 by the brand’s illustrious artistic director Henri d’Origny. Taking inspiration from Hermès rich equestrian history, the case is inspired by the stirrup. Even the font used on the dial reflects the elegance of a galloping mount.
The name might worry some, as “Très Grand Modèle” means very large model in French. However, this is very large in the universe of Hermès, not in relation to current trends. The new Arceau is therefore only a still relative modest 40mm in diameter. That 40mm is however almost all dial, and that is a great thing as Hermès created two special new dials for the Arceau.
The dial is a subtle hazelnut brown, featuring raised Arabic numerals placed on a sunburst chapter ring. The inside is stamped with a chevron motif, giving the watch a very classic look. It are details like this that give the watch a rich look. This is even further enhanced by the date, which features the same font as the numerals on the dial.
Inside the Arceau Très Grand Modèle houses Hermès Manufacture caliber H1837. Crafted from 193 parts, the movement has a power reserve of 50 hours and is adorned with satin-brushed bridges and rotor, engraved with what Hermès calls so nicely their “sprinkling of Hs” motif.
The Hermès Arceau Très Grand Modèle comes on a matching hazelnut strap crafted from matt alligator, which compliments the rest of the watch perfectly. Like many other of Hermès watches is also the new Arceau Très Grand Modèle bound to become a classic, a watch that defy’s fashion by always being fashionable.
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