A 38mm Galaxy Dreams
The moon’s phases are unveiled on a sparkling dial. Charm and grace reign supreme in this ever-so delicate scenography imagined by the Parisian house.
Our Earth’s satellite beguiles us with its power of attraction more than ever. For centuries on end, astronomers have been pointing their instruments towards its shining, crater-strewn face. Watchmakers have also been bewitched by its immutable cycles.
Arceau Petite Lune
Imagined in 1978 by Henri d’Origny, the Arceau watch borrows its name and design from an element of upholstery: a part of the stirrup. Its classic, timeless, elegant aesthetic and its equestrian imagination make it one of the emblematic models of the watch collections, representative of the style of the Hermès house.
This year, a new version completes the line of Arceau Manufacture watches. In a 38mm gem-set version, the Arceau Petite Lune is equipped with the Hermès H1837 movement and a moon phase module created by Dubois-Dépraz. Its white natural mother-of-pearl dial reveals the moon phase with a blue background and rhodium-plated decoration at 10:30. The date is presented at 6 o’clock in a mother-of-pearl window. The transferred numerals keep the classic spelling of the original model: an inclination that follows the movement of the hands, seeming to anticipate time.
True to Hermès saddlery expertise, this timepiece is paired with an alligator strap available in several shades: ultraviolet, cloud white, indigo, red agate, ember, string, storm blue or black, made in the workshops of the house using the technique of sewn saddler.
Dial and Case
An exquisite dial, crafted in incredibly-fine aventurine that infuses it with translucence and unveils the iridescent glimmers of Polynesian mother-of-pearl, is embraced by a 38 mm-diameter white gold case set with 70 diamonds. In this scenescape scattered with a handful of diamonds, three planets fashioned in aragonite, opal and water pearl surround the hour- and minute-hand duo. What’s more, the lunar cycles are center staged as the days roll by in an aperture set at 10:30.
Movement
This delicate ensemble is driven by a H1837 caliber. This selfwinding movement, assembled using some 193 components, stands out with its one-of-a-kind finishes. Its baseplate is circular-grained and snailed, its bridges and oscillating weight are satin-brushed and adorned with an H. This mechanism also delivers a 42-hour power reserve.
Strap
The Arceau Petite Lune is worn on a smooth sapphire-blue alligator strap attached to Hermès’ iconic stirrup-shaped lugs. The strap is both supple and durable, with a glossy finish that complements the richness of the blue leather. The strap is secured with a stainless steel pin buckle, embossed with the Hermès name. The Arceau Petite Lune can also be worn with other Hermès straps, thanks to the interchangeable strap system. This allows the wearer to easily switch between leather, fabric, and exotic skin straps, creating a customized look for any occasion. Whether dressed up or dressed down, the Arceau Petite Lune is a versatile and timeless timepiece that embodies the spirit of Hermès.
