Hermès unveils the Arceau Cavalier en Formes, priced at €390,000, a watch limited to six pieces worldwide
Some watches tell a story. Others are works of art on the wrist. Hermès, however, has chosen to do both with its latest creation, a timepiece that blends exceptional craftsmanship with rare horological complications. Produced in extremely limited quantities, this model embodies a vision of luxury that few manufacturers still dare to champion in 2026.
An iconic line dedicated to art
The Arceau Cavalier en Formes is part of the Arceau line, created in 1978. This collection stands out in the Parisian company’s catalog for its asymmetrical fasteners and equestrian flair. As such, it provides the ideal setting for a striking visual piece.
The dial features a design by Gianpaolo Pagni, an Italian artist. Originally created for one of the brand’s silk scarves, this image depicts a horseman composed of geometric shapes. Pagni drew inspiration from a lithograph from Émile Hermès’s personal collection.
Furthermore, the visual design on the dial plays on multiple levels. It features an engraving, a cubist painting, and transparency effects that complement one another. The sapphire crystal disc, hand-painted on both sides, rests atop leaf motifs and geometric shapes in shades of blue.
“In the center is a hand-engraved yellow gold horse. Depending on how the light hits it, the effect changes, giving the piece greater depth.”
A dial that changes with the light
The sapphire disc, painted on both sides, creates a rare sense of depth. Yet this is not the only surprise this dial has in store. Every angle reveals a new interpretation of the image.
As a result, the watch does not look the same at every moment of the day. This is precisely what collectors of fine timepieces seek. Light thus becomes a material in its own right.
Two major complications beneath the dial
Behind this painted surface lies the H1924 hand-wound caliber. This movement combines two of the most demanding complications in high-end watchmaking. The first is a so-called “winding” tourbillon, whose cage is shaped like a double H.
This tourbillon, positioned at six o’clock, pays homage to the historic winding mechanism of the boutique on Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. The second complication is a minute repeater. It announces the time acoustically at the press of a button, a mechanical feat that remains relatively rare.
In addition, the movement offers a power reserve of 90 hours. This is a generous power reserve for a watch in this category. Together, these two complications make this timepiece one of the most ambitious technical achievements presented this year.
- Hand-wound caliber: H1924
- “Winding” tourbillon with a double-H-shaped cage
- Acoustic minute repeater activated by a button
- 90-hour power reserve
- 43-millimeter white gold case with a dark blue alligator leather strap
A case designed for the extraordinary
The case measures 43 millimeters and is crafted from white gold. It is paired with a dark blue alligator strap, which echoes the shades found on the dial. Together, they create a refined visual harmony.
The creation of this intricate dial involves engravers, painters, and watchmakers. Each step requires a distinct set of skills and takes time. That is why production remains so limited.
Six copies and a prize to match
The company has decided to limit production of this model to just six pieces worldwide. This number reflects the time required for manufacturing and the high level of craftsmanship involved. Each watch requires weeks of work by several specialized artisans.
The international retail price is set at approximately 390,000 euros. This price places the timepiece among the most exclusive watch creations of the year. However, for a discerning collector, this price is consistent with the timepiece’s rarity and complexity.
It is also important to understand that this watch is not intended solely for technology enthusiasts. It also appeals to lovers of art and craftsmanship. As a result, its audience extends beyond the usual circle of mechanical complication enthusiasts.
On the other hand, accessibility remains a clear challenge with a limited edition like this. With only six pieces produced, most enthusiasts will have no choice but to admire this model from afar. This is also what makes the Parisian house’s approach so unique.
