Press release
The Arceau Le temps suspendu watch conceals time and erases it from the dial whilst continuing to register its ceaseless march. This new horological complication developed exclusively for Hermès is a world first.
Behind a simple and playful gesture lies a sophisticated mechanism capable of making the user forget time via a subtle play of cams, pinions and segments. The mechanics behind the illusion are created by an additional module enabling automatic and spontaneous alternation between suspended time and standard time.
Protected by two patents – one for its construction and the other for the play-reducing gear teeth – this gem of horological engineering alone comprises no less than 24 jewels and is equipped with three play-reducing wheels. The running time and suspended time phases are coordinated by two synchronised column wheels, one driving the hours, and the other the minutes coupled with the date.
The 360° retrograde hour and minute mechanisms make time disappear without interrupting the relentless running of the movement. Each part is hand-decorated in Switzerland with circular graining, engraving and Côtes de Genève, according to the finest watchmaking traditions.
The 43 mm-diameter gold or steel case gives the watch generous scope for expression. The herringbone guilloché dial motif bears the Hermès hallmark, while the contrasting retrograde indications are enhanced by a delicately grained finish. The asymmetrical design created by the winding crown placed at 2 o'clock hints that harmony can stem from paradoxes… Such as that of deliberately eclipsing time before willingly rejoining it.
The rose gold model initially issued in a limited edition now comes with a choice of two dial colours: silvered or chocolate brown.
Arceau Le temps suspendu rose gold
References 038688WW00 (opaline silvered)
038093WW00 (brown-chocolat)
Case: Round, 43 mm diameter
750 rose gold (83,5 g)
Glare proof sapphire crystal
Water-resistance to 3 atm
Inter-horn 22 mm
Dial: Opaline silvered with stamped herringbone motif
Brown-chocolate with stamped herringbone motif
Strap: Matt havana alligator
Buckle 17 mm safety folding clasp in 750 rose gold (25 g)
Movement: Mechanical self-winding movement, crafted in Switzerland
26 mm diameter (11 ½‘'')
Agenhor 4111 module (34 mm diameter, thickness of 6.15 mm)
Oscillations at 28'800 vibrations per hour / frequency of 4 Hz
42-hour power reserve
Circular-grained and snailed bridges, oscillating weight adorned with "côtes de Genève" motif
Functions: Hour, minute, pusher serving to make time run on or stand still
Retrograde date, pusher serving to set date or stand still
Distinctive Feature: Double retrograde
