Gentlemen’s Corner
Don’t let the pared-down and minimalist design of the Slim d’Hermes Quantieme Perpetual Platine lull you into thinking that it is just another simple watch because the truth can be no further. Within the slender platinum case is a perpetual calendar movement that had been made by Hermes’ own workshops. But knowing Hermes, it’s never just about complications, hence the utterly elegant aesthetics.
If you’re a fan of the unique numerals of the Slim d’Hermes line, you’ve struck jackpot with this timepiece, as not only the 12 hour numerals but also the calendar sub-dials are graced with this special font designed expressly for this collection by French graphic designer and typographer, Philippe Apeloig. The watch’s blue on blue colour palette also endears it well to the sartorially informed: Two different tones of blue adorn the dial, a deep blue aventurine plate brings added visual interest to the moon phase display, and the strap is in Abyss blue alligator leather. The ultra-thin movement Calibre H1950, fitted with an Agenhor perpetual calendar module, also offers the second time zone (indicated by a red hand) with day/night indication.
Moving on to the Hermes Cape Cod line, Hermes placed the emphasis on gent’s watches with four new renditions of the Cape Cod TGM (très grand modèle). The Cape Cod TGM Manufacture, ostensibly, proffers an in-house movement, Calibre H1912, which can be seen through an exhibition case back. Its circular-grained and snailed main plate is accompanied by satin-brushed bridges covered with tessellated H’s – a standard design element in all Hermes in-house movements. The other three models are quartz-driven but what they lack in technicity they more than make up for in style. The Cape Cod TGM Bicolore comes with two-tone straps; the Cape Cod TGM Cadran laque comes with lacquered dials and interchangeable straps including a Double Tour one; and the Cape Cod Bracelet de force combines a traditional strap with a cuff.
