The very first Arceau was crafted by Henri d’Origny 35 years ago. In 2013, Hermes marks the 35th anniversary of its iconic Arceau collection by launching the new model – Arceau Petite Lune. La Montre Hermès adds a new horological complication displaying moon phases.
The Jubilee timepiece is housed in a smaller, feminine case with the diameter of 38mm which is approximately 3mm smaller than most of the Arceau models. The round case is crafted from steel and shielded with anti-glare sapphire crystal. It features asymmetrical lugs to evoke the shape and curve of a stirrup – a motif that has become a trademark of the Maison Hermès. The case is constructed to resist water pressure up to 30 meters (circa 100 feet) beneath water surface.
A Special Note of Stylishness Comes with a Gorgeous Dial
Hermes Arceau Petite Lune is available in two versions. There is a choice between a sleek black and a shimmy white mother-of-pearl dial.
The Arceau Petite Lune Watch displays the hour and minutes, as well as two complications which are delicately framed by a rhodium ornamental fillet. The moon phase indicator emerges on a deep blue disc with silvered moon and stars and it is situated between 10 and 11 o’clock positions, while the pointer-type date indicator which shows the days of the lunar cycle is located at the 6 o’clock position. The hours are beautifully illustrated with sloping Arabic numerals, taking a leaf from the original model from 1978.
Hermes Arceau Petite Lune timepiece is equipped with the Swiss-made mechanical self-winding movement complemented by the module (Dubois-Dépraz Small Moon) which serves to power the moon-phase indication. The precise and reliable mechanism is capable to provide no less than 42 hours of power reserve when fully charged.
Its plates and bridges are circular-grained and snailed, whilst its oscillating weight is encrusted with a Côtes de Genève motif. The movement is built on 21 jewels and oscillates at the rapid frequency of 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz).
Loyal to the Hermès Saddle-Making Expertise
The final touch is given by the wristlet. The watch’s alligator strap reflects the superior leather working craftsmanship that Hermes is known for. The strap is crafted in the Hermes workshops using the saddle-stitching technique. There is a choice among three colors – matt indigo blue, smooth elephant gray and matt black. The watch is secured to the wrist with a standard pin buckle in steel.
