This Arceau Tigre Royal watch draws its inspiration from the eponymous silk scarf designed by Christiane Vauzelles for Hermès in 1977. It brings together two Swiss master artisans, skillfully blending gold engraving and enamel miniature painting to create the image of a majestic, yet somewhat endearing, tiger on the dial.
The creation of the watch dial combines the two crafts of hand-engraving and enamel miniature painting. The engraver, Sylvain Bettex, first carved the outline of the scene onto a gold dial, delineating the tiger’s body and the pebbles beneath its paw. He also engraved a border of lush palm leaves, echoing the texture of the tiger’s fur.
The enamel artist, Anne-Laurence Bovet, was responsible for the miniature painting of the vivid Bengal tiger on the dial. Yellow, black, and white form the primary colors of the tiger, with delicate brushstrokes rendering the finely detailed texture of its fur. The tiger’s eyes are piercing and expressive, appearing both majestic and calm, with a closer look revealing a touch of whimsy. The background is rendered in deep brown enamel. The production of each dial is a lengthy process, taking up to two weeks.
It is powered by the H1837 self-winding movement, operating at 28,800 vph. Twin barrels provide a 50-hour power reserve. Flipping the watch over reveals the oscillating weight and bridges adorned with an ‘H’ pattern.
It comes on a black alligator leather strap. It is a limited edition of 24 pieces. The official price is €78,500.
Hermès Arceau Tigre Royal Watch
Rose gold case, 41mm diameter, sapphire crystal, gold dial with engraving and miniature enamel painting, leaf-shaped hands, H1837 self-winding movement, 28,800 vph, 50-hour power reserve, alligator leather strap, rose gold buckle.
