Hermès “Only Watch Arceau Time Suspended” (Unique Piece for Only Watch 2011 Charity Auction)
Hermès “Only Watch Arceau Time Suspended” (Unique Piece for Only Watch 2011 Charity Auction)Hermès has created a unique piece of its Arceau Time Suspended watch to support the prestigious Only Watch 2011 charity auction.
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.
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.
Technical details
Model: “Only Watch Arceau Time Suspended”
Edition
Unique piece
Functions
Hours, minutes, date with retrograde functions
Movement
Mechanical self-winding
“Time Suspended” module
34 mm in diameter (15 lignes)
6.15 thick
28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz)
42-hour power reserve
254 parts including 45 jewels
Circular-grained and snailed bridges
Oscillating weight adorned with Côtes de Genève motif
Special features
Triple retrograde (world first)
360° retrograde hour and minute hand
Retrograde date hand
Function for starting and stopping the hands (making time suspended) by pressing a pushbutton
Dial
Blue grained and snailed dial with herringbone motif
“Time Suspended” zone at 12 o’clock
Hands: Skeleton
Case
Palladium
43 mm in diameter
Watertight to 30 metres
Anti-glare sapphire crystal
Strap
Matt indigo alligator
Folding safety clasp in palladium
