Hermès presents an extraordinary vision with the Slim d’Hermès Neo Brandebourgs, a limited edition distinguished for its artistry, historic references, and technical finesse. Across just 24 pieces, the Manufacture intertwines the heritage of 19th-century military regalia with daring contemporary creativity, delivering a watch that sits seamlessly at the intersection of classical craft and futuristic ambition.
The dial is a canvas of miniature painting and masterful engraving, where the silhouette of a 19th-century jacket, originally designed by Caty Latham for Hermès silk scarves, is reinterpreted through the lens of Japanese artist Daiske Nomura. Here, figures and details flourish through vibrant colours, brushed on by the meticulous hand of the artisan, each shade emphasised and distinguished by delicate engraved outlines.
The artistic craft is palpable, each line precise, every colour alive, the composition reminiscent of ceremonial attire yet animated with modern dynamism. At seven o’clock, the eye is drawn to the tourbillon, resting within the subtle architecture of a cage crowned by the Lift motif. Two intertwined Hs subtly evoke the union of Julie Hollande and Émile Hermès, both a statement of the brand’s legacy and a visual punctuation mark within this scene. The dial succeeds both as horological centrepiece and visual art, creating a microcosm where function serves as backdrop to creative freedom.
Nestled behind this remarkable facade is the Hermès Calibre H1950T, an ultra-thin self-winding movement crafted for sophistication and slenderness. The movement measures 30.5 millimetres across, standing at just 3.4 millimetres at its dial base, extending to 4.2 millimetres at the apex above the tourbillon, ensuring every element remains harmonious. The automatic winding mechanism delivers a reliable 48-hour power reserve and beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour, providing a steady rhythm to hours and minutes, with the captivating tourbillon marking the passage of time at a distinct angle. Through the sapphire crystal caseback, the intricate machinery is revealed: mechanical ballet, supreme finishing, an elegant demonstration of technical expertise within such a slender form.
The platinum case, round and measuring 39.5 millimetres across, frames the dial in an aura of restrained luxury. It complements the futuristic theme while referencing the ceremonial roots of the design, its lines resolved with precision and subtlety. Anti-glare sapphire crystal protects both the dial and the back, promoting visibility while guarding the treasure within. Water resistance assures its resilience at 3 bar, ready to face the moments of everyday life with assurance and poise. Two alligator leather straps in Bleu abysse and graphite are crafted in the Hermès ateliers, elevating the tactile experience and reinforcing the bespoke character of this Slim d’Hermès creation.
Hermès approaches time as an object of emotion and imagination, not simply measurement. The Slim d’Hermès Neo Brandebourgs is a vivid artefact of this philosophy: practical and functional while brimming with surprise and artistry. In every brushstroke, engraving, and technical flourish, the watch invites its wearer to experience a distinct interlude, blending the heritage of ceremonial uniform with futuristic vision and living craftsmanship. This is horology as Hermès dares to imagine it, where tradition, creativity, and contemporary technique converge in a singular celebration of spontaneous elegance.
