Introducing Hermès’ Enchanting Blue Lacquered Arceau Petite Lune
Established in 1837 in Paris, Hermès is one of France’s most revered luxury brands, initially known for its craftsmanship in harnesses and saddles.
Over the years, the brand has become synonymous with exquisite artistry and meticulous craftsmanship, weaving a poetic narrative into each of its watches.
The Arceau collection, drawing from the rich world of equestrian culture, now welcomes a breathtaking iteration of the Arceau Petite Lune.
This timepiece features a playful moon phase complication, complete with diamond-studded eclipses that enhance its celestial theme.
Design and Features
The unique lugs of the Arceau, inspired by an asymmetrical stirrup and highlighted by tilt-shaped Arabic numerals, were originally envisioned by the acclaimed artistic director Henri d’Origny back in 1978.
This iconic design remains a hallmark of Hermès nearly fifty years later.
The new Arceau Petite Lune, which has consistently captivated enthusiasts with its stellar motifs, will reappear in 2025.
Its signature moon phase display rests at 10:30, enriching the watch with an enchanting cosmic touch.
Crafted with a 38mm stainless steel case, the Petite Lune is crowned with a stunning rose-cut diamond that adds a touch of elegance.
What truly sets this model apart, though, is the distinctive diamond arrangement adorning the bezel.
These 99 brilliant-cut diamonds taper gracefully from 8 to 2 o’clock, artistically forming a crescent shape that evokes the beauty of an eclipse.
Technical Specifications
Flipping the narrative around, the diamonds on the dial reveal an intriguing inversion.
A crescent-shaped depression spans the center, stretching from 11 to 4 o’clock, where 15 diamonds of varying sizes create a delicate tapering effect.
The surrounding gradient blue lacquer intensifies this visual spectacle with a luxurious chiaroscuro quality, glistening softly.
At the 10:30 mark, a charming moon phase window reveals a deep blue sky with stars, beautifully charting the lunar cycle.
The watch features elegantly openworked leaf-shaped hands that expose the abyss-blue area, reminiscent of an eclipse’s shadow.
Beneath its stunning façade ticks the H1837 automatic movement, a collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture initiated in 2012.
Measuring just 3.7mm in thickness, this sleek movement offers a 42-hour power reserve and operates at a frequency of 4Hz.
The intricate inner workings reveal a circular-grained mainplate, along with satin-brushed bridges and rotor adorned with ‘H’ motifs, showcasing Hermès’ dedication to detail.
The Petite Lune is finished with an interchangeable abyss blue alligator strap, a signature Hermès touch.
- Case: 38mm diameter; crafted stainless steel Arceau case designed by Henri d’Origny; polished finish; bezel set with 99 brilliant-cut diamonds; rose-cut diamond on the crown; sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both the dial and caseback; water-resistant up to 30 meters.
- Dial: Gradient blue lacquer featuring an abyss blue center; crescent moon phase aperture located between 10 and 11 o’clock; crescent eclipse adorned with 15 diamonds; rhodium-plated, openworked leaf-shaped hands.
- Movement: Calibre H1837, exclusive automatic movement designed in collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture; measures 3.7mm in thickness; operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour / 4Hz; composed of 193 parts (28 jewels); 42-hour power reserve; functions for hours, minutes, and moon phases.
- Strap: Abyss blue alligator strap by Hermès, complete with a steel pin buckle.
- Price: To be announced.
Source: Monochrome-watches