The understated yet original Arceau watch designed in 1978 by Henri d’Origny lends its classic lines to dazzling illustrations of Hermès creativity and expertise. Its diamond-set round case with asymmetrical stirrup-shaped lugs frames a dial adorned with a brightly coloured toucan, revealed by exceptional craftsmanship skills.
 

The tropical bird with its oversized and colourful beak was reinvented by illustrator Katie Scott for the Toucans de Paradis silk scarf in 2020. The youthful British artist, who is passionate about flora and fauna and has made a name for herself with her characteristic style of botanical and animal illustrations, has created a fantastic species with decorative plumage. This exotic representation, hovering between fantasy and naturalism, lends a new artistic dimension to the Arceau watch.
 

Its dial associates two highly demanding and remarkable crafts that took five years to perfect: multicoloured silk threads, highlighted by the intensity of the miniature enamel. The unique and exclusive Hermès silk thread technique was inspired by a kimono weaving workshop in Japan. Chosen for its vibrant design, the Amazonian bird is composed of 500 individually assembled threads and is brought to life by a full week of fine craftsmanship.
 

The white gold base is first enamelled. The artisanusesaveryfinebrushtocoatitwithglass powders mixed with natural oils, which are then applied in several layers, dried and fired in the kiln. Recesses to house the silk threads are engraved around the enamelled surfaces. Each thread is meticulously positioned and fixed into place with infinite care so as to create subtly shimmering light and preserve a perfect weave.
 

Embellished with 82 diamonds, this unique dial is framed by a white gold case measuring 38 mm in diameter and housing the Hermès H1912 self-winding movement. Created in the Hermès Horloger workshops, a Zanzibar blue calfskin strap highlights the colours of this exclusive watch, issued in a numbered limited edition of 24.

(Images © Hermès / Claude Joray / David Marchon)