The New, Bolder and Sharper Hermès Cape Cod in Titanium

Since its debut in 1991, the Cape Cod has occupied a special position within the Hermès watch collection. Designed by Henri d’Origny (who also created the Arceau in 1978), its instantly recognisable “square within a rectangle” case was inspired not by an equestrian universe but by the links of an anchor chain, resulting in one of the most original silhouettes in modern watchmaking. Over the years, the Cape Cod has explored countless variations, while Martin Margiela’s famous double-tour leather strap (1998) helped cement its status as a design icon. For 2026, however, Hermès takes the collection in a different direction. The sportiest of the family, the new Cape Cod Titanium introduces a larger case with contemporary finishes and exudes a more masculine (rather than unisex) personality.

Although the overall shape remains faithful to the original, almost every surface has been reconsidered. The new 41mm titanium case trades the polished look of earlier Cape Cod models for a more technical appearance, and all surfaces are now angular rather than rounded. Satin-brushed upper surfaces are combined with bead-blasted case flanks. Modern and purposeful, the watch has a restrained, nearly monochromatic look. The Cape Cod now looks and feels more like a contemporary sports watch, while still preserving the design that has always defined the collection. Titanium also contributes to the wearing experience. Even with the larger dimensions, the case remains lightweight and comfortable on the wrist. Water-resistance has increased to 100m, great for everyday use.

The dial is finished in black (which, in real life, appears more dark grey). It has a textured central section and a satin-brushed outer chapter ring, creating depth without relying on colour. Hermès has retained its distinctive Arabic numerals (the Cape Cod wouldn’t be a Hermès watch without its superbly designed typography), executed as applied rhodium-plated markers filled with Super-LumiNova, which remain perfectly legible. The luminous baton-shaped hands indicate time. The only splash of colour comes from the bright orange central seconds hand, injecting much-needed energy into quite a restrained composition. A tiny date window, with digits in the same typeface as the hour markers, is at 6 o’clock, neatly integrated into the symmetrical layout.

The watch is powered by the Manufacture Hermès calibre H1912, an automatic movement developed through the brand’s long-standing partnership with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier, which is partially owned by Hermès. Visible through the sapphire caseback, decorated in the brand’s usual way, with H logos over the bridges, the movement operates at 28,800 vibrations/hour and delivers a power reserve of approximately 45 hours.

Replacing the leather straps traditionally associated with the Cape Cod are integrated rubber straps available in black, Bleu Abysse, orange or Jaune de Naples. Quick-change functionality allows owners to switch them easily, transforming the watch’s look and personality.

Price is EUR 6,150 or USD 7,900. For more details, visit Hermes.com.