While it may seem that the companies are on opposite sides of the spectrum, they have more in common than meets the eye. “Both are motivated by a sincere pursuit of excellence and the desire to create something that is not compromised. Apple Watch Hermès is a true testament to that belief,” said Jonathan Ive, Apple’s chief design officer.
Thanks to this agreement, Hermès will become the first manufacturer to sell its bands directly with each watch: when you buy an Apple Hermès watch, you will be getting not only Apple’s advanced technology, but also a band and case designed by the luxury French brand. The packaging for this unique watch is orange, and not white like other Apple models.
The iconic French luxury firm created leather bands in three styles: the single tour, the double tour (which wraps twice around the wrist), and a cuff style. The single tour pairs with either a 38mm or 42mm stainless case. The 38mm steel case design is available in Fauve Barenia leather, noir box leather, and Capucine Swift leather, while the 42mm stainless steel case is available in Fauve Barenia leather and noir box leather. The Double Tour pairs with a 38mm stainless steel case and is available in Fauve Barenia leather, bleu jean, Capucine, and Etain Swift leather. The Cuff, with a 42mm steel case, is available in Fauve Berania leather. Each stainless steel case also includes a customizable face with three exclusive dials inspired by Hermès watches—the Clipper, Cape Cod and Espace. All come with an etching of the emblematic Hermès signature.
In 2014, Apple became the first US company to be valued at over $700 billion, and it’s easy to see why. Their constant technological innovations have procured a loyal client base. On the other hand, Hermès is a six generation family-owned company with a focus on impeccable craftsmanship, whose product range includes leather goods, perfume, fashion and lifestyle accessories.
The Apple Watch Hermès will be available at select Apple retail outlets, Hermès boutiques, specialty stores and department stores beginning October 5th, in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong King, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Singapore, Switzerland, the UK and the US.
“At Hermès, we strive to provide our clients with elegant, creative and functional objects for their everyday lives,” said Pierre-Alexis Dumas, Hermès’ executive vice president in charge of artistic direction. “What more contemporary and relevant expression of this principle could there be than this collaboration with Apple?” ■