First Look Hermès Unveils the Cut Le Temps Suspendu

After Hermès revived one of its most celebrated innovations, the "Time Suspended" mechanism (Le Temps Suspendu), and introduced it within the new Arceau collection, the French maison is now, for the very first time, bringing this distinctive complication to its iconic Cut collection. With this move, the brand continues to deliver remarkable creations, following the debut of the first two additions to the Arceau line, most notably the Arceau Rocabar de Rire, a timepiece that sparked much debate among enthusiasts and critics alike over its uniquely designed dial. Without a doubt, this design will appeal to equestrian sports lovers and horse enthusiasts in general, a fitting tribute, given the brand's origins in the equestrian world before expanding to become one of the largest luxury groups globally.

Although watchmaking does not represent a major share of the brand's overall business, the French group has made significant strides in this field, bolstered by its acquisition of Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier, a specialist in crafting high-end movements. The maison has also acquired companies specializing in the production of dials and cases, a move that has helped it begin a new chapter in the world of watchmaking.

Hermès now returns with a distinctive creation within the Cut collection, equipping it with the "Time Suspended" mechanism, a complication previously exclusive to the Arceau line. And, in a bold departure from the current trend of downsizing watch dimensions, Hermès presents its new Cut watches in a larger size.

The Hermès Cut Le Temps Suspendu features a new case size, now measuring 39 mm in diameter, compared to the previous model's 36 mm. The case is crafted from satin-brushed 750 5N rose gold, with polished bevels that highlight the “circle within a round shape” design, accentuating its sharp lines and bold geometry. A polished rose gold bezel further enhances the watch's elegance, which can be set with 60 diamonds. The watch boasts a water resistance of 100 meters.

The crown, positioned between 1 and 2 o'clock, is engraved with Hermès’ iconic “H,” adding a subtle yet distinct brand signature. The button for the “Time Suspended” function is located at the 8 o'clock position. Completing the case is an anti-glare sapphire crystal, offering protection on both sides.

By pressing the button on the case’s left side, the “Time Suspended” function is activated. The hands instantly leap to the 12 o'clock position and remain there for as long as the wearer desires, allowing time to be frozen and the moment fully appreciated. Pressing the button once again resumes the hands' movement, returning them to their original positions, indicating the current time.

The dial is available in either a sunburst red-tinted version, which is not offered as a gem-set edition and will be produced in limited quantities, or an opaline silver-toned version. The center of the dial is finely sandblasted, creating a texture that contrasts beautifully with the sunburst subdial, which displays the continuous 24-second indicator, where the hand moves counterclockwise and completes a full rotation every 24 seconds.

Why exactly 24? 

This choice honors Hermès’ historic flagship boutique and headquarters at 24 Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris, as noted by Philippe Delhotal, Creative Director of Hermès Watchmaking.

The dial is adorned with 4N gilt Arabic numerals, while the retrograde polished 4N-plated brass baton-type hands indicate the hours and minutes. For enhanced legibility in low-light conditions, these hands are coated with Super-LumiNova. At 12 o'clock, the "Time Suspended" feature is prominently displayed through a lowered V-shaped surface, surrounding the number, making the hands stand out when stopped.

Powering the Hermès Cut Le Temps Suspendu is the self-winding H1912 manufacture movement, developed in collaboration with Vaucher. The movement measures 23.3 mm in diameter and 3.9 mm in thickness, comprising 175 meticulously assembled components that work in harmony to drive the watch. Beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), it delivers a power reserve of 45 hours. The timepiece is offered with either a satin-brushed and polished 750 5N rose gold bracelet or a Craie-coloured rubber strap.

As for the prices:

• EUR 43,000 (full gold), approximately AED 172,000
• EUR 28,000 (gold and rubber strap), approximately AED 112,000
• EUR 48,000 (full gold gem-set), approximately AED 192,000
• EUR 33,000 (gold gem-set and rubber strap), approximately AED 132,000

For more information visit Hermès official website.