The Hermès H08 Returns in Deep Blue Titanium

Released in 2021, the Hermès H08 collection has been a rather good surprise. Here, at MONOCHROME, we tend to focus on true watchmaking brands, and Hermès, a luxury powerhouse offering multiple product ranges, isn’t necessarily our primary topic. Still, the H08 watch caught our attention with its mix of fluid design, multiple textures and sporty-chic vibe. This watch and its assertive style are now coming back in a new, colourful edition with the Hermès H08 Deep Blue Titanium.

The idea of coloured cases seems to gradually grow amongst designers. Recently, Cartier launched a blue-coated edition of its Santos, resulting in what’s probably the most appealing edition of this watch. Hermès is now following suit with a watch that is entirely dark – either blue or black – for a new, cool style.

Design is certainly a great deal at Hermès, which is known for its use of original shapes and inspirations that aren’t classics of the watch industry. Hermès added watches to the mix over 40 years ago. Signature models include Cape Cod, Heure H and Arceau, and like all Hermès products, elegance is combined with a certain restrained, timeless originality. Created in 2021 by Philippe Delhotal, Creative Director Hermès Horloger, the Hermès H08 collection combines a certain rigour with a sporty feeling. Yet, the basics of the brands are entirely noticeable, such as this combination of shapes, dimensions and texture that has always been the hallmark of the French brand.

The Hermès H08 measures a reasonable 39mm x 39mm and is housed in a case that can hardly be described with classic definitions. It isn’t totally squared, it’s not exactly cushion-shaped. The most distinctive part of the design is the transition from round shapes in the centre of the dial to the straight lines of the case, each part gradually gaining in rigour and geometry. For this new edition, the mix of materials and textures is still present. The central case, made of vertically brushed titanium, is blue PVD coated, while the radially brushed bezel is black ceramic. The same material is used for the screw-down crown. And to give it an even bluer presence, the texture rubber strap follows suit. The latter is closed by a titanium butterfly clasp.

The dial of the Hermès H08 Deep Blue Titanium is, as you’d expect, mostly blue-coloured. Most of the dial has a rough grained texture, which contrasts with the black elements, namely the applied and luminous indexes, the hour chapter ring and the hands. Orange accents, the signature colour of the brand, are found on the hour markers and the seconds hand. And as always with Hermès, singular typographies play a huge role in the originality and appeal of the H08.

Inside this blue titanium case is a movement of fine nature, made by Vaucher (In 2006, Hermès acquired a 25% stake in Vaucher, a sister company of Parmigiani). The calibre H1837 inside the H08 is made at the Vaucher manufacture. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, this high-grade automatic movement can store up to 50 hours of power reserve. The rotor and bridges are decorated with the brand’s signature H pattern.

The Hermès H08 Deep Blue Titanium is released now at Hermès boutiques and is priced at USD 8,250. For more details, please consult www.hermes.com.