As watch enthusiasts and journalists specializing in fine watchmaking, members of our editorial team are fortunate enough to regularly wear and evaluate new releases entrusted to us by brands, whether for private assessment or for publication in a review.
This was the case with the latest version of the Hermès H08 automatic, unveiled during the Geneva-based premier luxury trade show Watches and Wonders and loaned to us in early May, just as we were preparing to depart for the British Virgin Islands (BVI) in the breathtaking Caribbean. That same week, our publishing company was celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Skippers Cup, a sailing event organized for readers of Skippers, voile & océan magazine, which itself will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year.
Over the course of the week, around 40 Swiss sailors and readers of Skippers set out to discover the renowned BVI aboard identical 41-foot cruising sailboats. Through a series of regattas and specially designed courses, they experienced a destination long considered a sailor’s paradise—dating back to the era of pirates—before later becoming a tax haven favored by modern-day adventurers of a different kind. Even the names of the islands evoke a sense of escape and exploration. Around the main island of Tortola lie Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Norman Island and Virgin Gorda, along with dozens of smaller islands, all covered in lush greenery and surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. It was the ideal backdrop for the H08’s signature orange accents, which blended naturally into the landscape.
A Gentle Character
The orange colorway is not the only striking feature of the new Hermès H08 automatic—a watch perfectly suited to summer and capable of bringing a sense of energy and optimism to the wrist throughout the day. The color makes an immediate impression on the textured rubber strap fitted with a DLC-coated titanium folding clasp, while appearing in a more understated manner on the minute track.
Pointed at one end and balanced by a ring-shaped counterweight at the other, perfectly centered and matched to the strap—which is also available in blue, dune, and medium green—the seconds hand is deliberately ambiguous when at rest. At first glance, one might wonder whether it indicates a second time zone. Once the watch is running, however, its motion immediately reveals its purpose. Even then, its distinctive design remains endlessly enjoyable to observe.
Another noteworthy feature is the case itself. Its design combines the smooth curves of a ceramic bezel with harmonious square-cushion architecture crafted from a composite material with softly curved edges. Throughout the trip, it generated countless questions from participants: what exactly is this material that looks somewhat like carbon fiber, yet feels noticeably lighter?
Lightweight, durable and pleasant to the touch, with alternating matte and polished surfaces, it is made from braided aluminized fiberglass combined with slate powder, creating elegant silvery reflections. Measuring 39mm in diameter, it is equally well suited to smaller wrists, especially as the integrated strap hugs the wrist exceptionally well.
During our week of yachting, the watch attracted as much interest from women as from men, many of whom wanted a closer look and the opportunity to try it on. Through the sapphire caseback, the movement reveals tones reminiscent of the fiberglass case material, particularly in the satin-finished oscillating weight, which is delicately decorated with a repeating Hermès “H” motif. The same pattern appears on the underside of the rubber strap, enhancing the comfortable feeling of support against the skin.
Design in Service of Function
If I had to choose a single watch to wear every day for the rest of my life, it would naturally be a sport-chic model capable of adapting to every situation: cocktails, leisure time, travel, professional settings and sporting activities. The Hermès H08 is exactly that kind of watch, combining elegance and versatility in equal measure.
It remained on my wrist throughout the entire Skippers Cup, adapting effortlessly to every circumstance. Given the nautical nature of the event, 100 meters of water resistance was an absolute necessity. Shock resistance was equally important, since impacts are always a possibility during maneuvers aboard a sailboat—or while participating in virtually any athletic activity.
More surprisingly, the watch’s outstanding legibility also allowed it to serve as a backup regatta countdown timer during race-start procedures. The typography of the dial is not merely aesthetically appealing and highly original; the distinctive white numerals against the slate-colored background, paired with luminous baton-style hands, make the display exceptionally easy to read.
Likewise, the orange seconds hand with its luminous tip stands out clearly against the white seconds markers, complemented by orange markers placed every five seconds. When raising the five-minute warning flag before the start of a race, this level of legibility proved invaluable, allowing every phase of the countdown to be monitored right up to the sound signal authorizing boats to cross the starting line—and not a moment sooner.
That same readability is equally appreciated at night, whether on deck or below in the cabin, when checking the time and assessing the effects of jet lag without having to turn on a light.
Among the qualities that have become increasingly important in a watch over the past few years, the Hermès H08 embodies what could be described as anonymous ostentation. Its vibrant colors naturally draw attention, yet the watchmaking expertise of this globally coveted luxury house has not yet achieved the same level of public recognition as the Birkin bag from its leather-goods division. As a result, it does not attract the kind of unwanted attention that some luxury watches can generate.
The H08 offers something increasingly rare today: a welcome sense of carefree confidence. It encourages a simpler approach, one where shorts, a T-shirt and an H08 are all that one needs to fully enjoy the summer season.
