The Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune wristwatch by Hermès Paris was introduced this past summer and is quite a stunner.

We’ve covered some of the Hermès timepieces over the years, however, none has really done anything for me personally. The brand name is of course very highly respected, and the cases are well sized with good proportions (this one is 39.5 mm in diameter and quite thin). There’s always been something lacking in the design, in my opinion, especially considering the high prices.

With the Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune, the first thing I noticed was the use of smaller numerals for the hour markers, which is arguably more attractive than past models where oversized numerals appear to conflict with the minimalist approach. Some legibility may be sacrificed by using smaller numerals but it’s not a deal-breaker.

The decision to mesh a lightweight sandblasted dark gray titanium case middle and lugs with the bright silver polished platinum bezel and crown — results in an incredible contrast of silver and gray textures.

Hermès’ ultra-thin H1953 automatic movement, which has a 43-hour power reserve, and a micro-rotor that takes up minimal space, allows for a complex movement within a svelte case. And in addition to hours and minutes in the center, there’s a cool double-moonphase at 6 o’clock.

For the skeletonized dial, the contrasting surfaces are even more complex than the case. Surround by a black gold sunburst flange and gray-transferred minutes track, a mixture of dark gray and silver brushed and sandblasted surfaces, coupled with chamfered and polished edges for some of the components, produces an elegant minimalist look that I think is far more attractive than any past Hermès timepiece. The blued baton hour and minute hands, against the stealthy dial is just right. And the use of blue contrast threading for the matte graphite alligator strap, along with a sandblasted titanium Hermès pin buckle is a perfect finishing touch.

The Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune (Ref. W053606WW00) retails for approximately $20,000.

Learn more at Hermès.

 

Photos by Hermès.