Although Hermès is known more for its leather goods, it is also a player in the luxury watch market. To celebrate the launch of its first watches with mechanical movements made in-house, the French fashion house hosted a VIP soiree last Friday in Macau.
Female guests turned up to flaunt their limited-edition Hermès purses and check out the latest watch series at the Macau Tower before heading to a gala and banquet at the Banyan Tree hotel.
At the preview, magnifying glasses were attached to the display cases so guests could have a closer look at the watches. Sixteen models from the Arceau Ecuyère and Dressage collections were on show.
Among them were watches featuring the first mechanical calibres designed and made in a partnership with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier. In order to secure the exclusive calibres, Hermès acquired a 25 per cent stake in the manufacturer.
For entertainment, choreographer David Drouard created a modern dance piece that represented the movement of a timepiece.
Hermès' association with watches goes back 100 years, when Jacqueline Hermès wore a pocket watch on her wrist with a specially-designed leather strap.