We know Hermès to be a go-to fashion brand for high-end clothes and accessories like handbags, shoes, and wallets, but rarely for watches. You might be surprised to find out that Arceau has been part of the brand’s watch collection since the ‘70s, but more so about its newest model, the Arceau Chrono Titane.
RELEASE DATE & PRICE
Release Date: February 2018
Price when reviewed: US$5,100.00
The new Arceau can be considered the brand’s most sporty creation to date. It functions as a chronograph and has a grade 2 titanium case in a gunmetal color with asymmetrical lugs that are inspired by stirrups. Aside from the chronograph counter, the grainy and galvanic black dial has minutes and seconds sub-dials and a window for the date between the four o’clock and five o’clock marker, while the hour, minute, and second hands gives it a pop of red.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Diameter: 41mm
- Movement: ETA 2894
- Water Resistance: 30 meters
- Power Reserve: 42 hours
- Function: Chronograph
- Features: Minute and seconds counters, Running seconds sub-dial
PROS
With a diameter of 41mm, the Arceau Chrono Titane falls under the brand’s “Very Large Model” category, which officially makes it one of their sportier models. More than that trendy aesthetic, what you’ll get from the attractive watch is also a masterpiece as its appearance was derived from the original design of the artist, Henri d’Origny.
You’ll notice that despite its sporty elements, the watch still has a touch of French style. This is most evident in the font used for the Arabic numerals that signal the hours. It has a windswept effect as the numbers are leaning towards the edge of the dial.
The watch is also strapped around with the option of a tan calfskin strap or a black embossed calfskin strap, each creating a different aura for the watch. The piece is characterized by a lot of details, but ultimately, they all contribute to the style and flair of the watch, making it more fanciful for the luxury brand’s market.
CONS
Hermès has been creating in-house movements for their watches for a while now. Unfortunately, the Arceau Chrono Titane was not equipped with one of their own. For this reason or other, the chronograph sub-dials of the watch makes a little challenge out of reading the time recorded. Although the watch has the function of a chronograph, it’s not ideal to get it for that reason alone. It’s better to move on to the next model if that’s your main reason for getting a chronograph watch.
