The Two-Tone Black & Gold Hermès H08 Watch

In a world where people look increasingly for stand-out, original objects, it can be very frustrating and challenging to do this with watches. While many enthusiasts and collectors might stick to well-established watchmaking names, there are some genuine surprises if you dare to go off the beaten path. In an effort to show you something that stands out from the masses with a very original watch, we take a closer look at the latest Hermès H08. While previously only available in titanium or black graphene cases, this black and gold execution could very possibly be the best one yet.

The history of Hermès goes back to 1837 when Thierry Hermès founded his saddle and harness atelier in Paris, France. Not to dwell on the history too much, it is one of the most famous names in the design and luxury goods industry and has moved on from the initial range of products to do much more than just leather goods. Watches came into the frame in the 1930s when Hermès enlisted the help of Universal Genève to create the brand’s first timepieces. La Montre Hermès was established as a subsidiary in the 1970s and has been part of the company ever since. Some of its designs, like the Cape Cod and Arceau, are well known and loved by many. In 2021, Hermès introduced a new chapter to its watchmaking endeavours with the sporty-chic H08, which has all the hallmarks of becoming another Hermès icon.

The H08 has a very original look, with a soft cushion-shaped case measuring 39mm by 39mm. This now has a rose gold caseband sandwiched between a black ceramic bezel and a titanium caseback. It’s finished with a mix of straight and circular brushing, adding to the sporty flair of the H08. The crown is also done in black ceramic, tying in with the black and gold theme of the overall watch. Next to the contrast between the materials, touches like the inside bevelled edge on the bezel give it loads of character and are a testament to Hermès’s eye for design.

Next up is the black gold dial, which is where the H08 watch really comes into its own, mostly due to the refreshing font used for the applied numerals. All have a square-ish shape to flow with the shape of the case and are filled with Super-LumiNova. This is paired with gold hands, with a hollowed section in the minute hands to reveal the markers on the inner minute scale. The chapter ring with the hour indices has a visual connection to the inner hour ring with a rounded square date window, another striking design element.

The calibre H1837 automatic movement comes from Vaucher, which is partially owned by Hermès (25% since 2006) and is visible through the transparent caseback. It runs at a rate of 28,800vph and has a power reserve of up to 50 hours. It’s finished with the signature Hermès H on the rotor and bridges, which is a welcome exchange for the traditional style of decoration in mechanical watches.

This hallmark is also found on the inside of the black rubber strap that the H08 comes on. This has a webbed texture on the outside, giving it a very distinct look and feel. I also envision this looking very good on a rose gold and black ceramic bracelet, but that would considerably increase the price. This model retails for EUR 15,750.

For more information, please visit Hermès.com.