Introducing Hermès Unveils the Limited Edition Arceau On Air

When Hermès opens a new boutique in a city, it goes beyond the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, expressing its presence through refined artistry. The maison has created the new Arceau On Air timepiece to celebrate the opening of its first boutique in Nashville, Tennessee, capturing the very essence of the Music City through its mastery of miniature painting, and transforming the iconic Arceau case into a wearable work of art that pays tribute to America’s rich musical heritage.

Both versions share a 38 mm 18K white gold case weighing approximately 43.9 grams, fitted with anti-glare sapphire crystals on both sides to reveal the miniature painting and the refined movement finishing. The case retains the asymmetrical lugs designed by Henri d’Origny in 1978, a hallmark of the Arceau collection.

The dial’s artwork is taken directly from the “On Air!” silk scarf, a design created by artist Carine Brancowitz. Known for her intricate, fine-line style reminiscent of detailed ballpoint pen drawings, Brancowitz depicted a scene of electric guitars standing at attention, as if in a recording studio. For the watch, this musical tableau is meticulously recreated by an artisan using the demanding technique of miniature painting.

The dial is a multi-layered composition. Its base, a piece of sapphire, is pad-printed on the reverse side with a pattern of fine concentric grooves, perfectly evoking the appearance of a colored vinyl record. The musical instruments appear to float above this surface, creating a vivid sense of depth and dimension.

Hermès offers two interpretations, each limited to just two pieces. The first features a Bleu Abysse dial paired with a matte Bleu Abysse alligator strap, evoking the cool tones of classic blues. The second presents a Rouge H dial matched with a matte Barolo Rouge H alligator strap, channeling the vibrant energy of rock and roll.

In this creation, Hermès strips away the Arceau’s signature Arabic numerals entirely, leaving only pure visual storytelling — a miniature painting on sapphire that captures the atmosphere of a Nashville recording studio. The watch displays only the hours and minutes, with steel hands subtly shaped to evoke guitar picks.

At its heart beats the Manufacture Hermès Caliber H1912, an automatic movement just 3.7 mm thick, visible through the sapphire caseback. The movement showcases fine finishing and the distinctive “sprinkling of Hs” motif across its bridges and oscillating weight. Offering a 50-hour power reserve, this caliber is the same reliable engine that powers previous Arceau models.

With only four pieces in total across both editions, the Arceau On Air! stands among the rarest creations in Hermès’ watchmaking portfolio, priced at USD 69,800 (approximately AED 256,400).

more information please visit Hermès official website.