From Saddle to Wrist: The New Hermès Arceau Grand Tralala Brides et Mors

“Inspiration exists, but it has to find us working.” – Pablo Picasso

Would it even be an article under my byline if it didn’t begin with a quote of some sort? You know it wouldn’t. (But come on, I know you’re here for it.) Moreover, I would not be doing my job if I didn’t directly link either the quote or the person from which it came with the watch and/or brand being discussed.

This piece will be no different.
 

So, why begin with a Picasso quote about inspiration? Well, if you were unaware, Spanish artist and sculptor Pablo Picasso had an obsession with horses and all things equine. Thus, from Picasso’s 1912 painting “Ma Jolie,” where the artist deconstructed the equine form through Cubism, to his 1935 etching titled “Minotauromachy,” depicting a battle between a minotaur and a horse, to 1942’s “The Horse” created in the amid of World War II, Picasso was greatly inspired by the beauty and the power, and even the tranquility, of horses.
 

It just so happens that horses are also an inspiration for the creations put forth by the folks at one of our favorite French maisons, Hermès.

Of course, the new Arceau Grand Tralala Brides et Mors is not the first Hermès timepiece to draw inspiration from equestrian-inspired design; however, this latest addition to the Arceau collection offers a bit more for those who seek a classic representation of a jewelry watch.
 

The dial of the Arceau Grand Tralala, whether set upon a background of white lacquer or galvanic black, decoratively displays bridles and bits that are expertly crafted in 18K rose gold and embellished with 110 round brilliant-cut diamonds. Moreover, the sub-dial at 6 o’clock features a bit-shaped seconds hands made of 18K rose gold.

Meanwhile, the 34mm rose gold case is accentuated with a bezel set with 64 round brilliant cut diamonds, a rose-cut diamond set crown, an anti-glare sapphire crystal, and an exhibition caseback that allows the self-winding Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement, with its 50-hour power reserve, to be viewed.
 

Each edition is accompanied by a strap in either white Chantilly or black alligator (matching the dial colors), and both have a water resistance of three bar (or roughly 100 feet).

The Arceau Grand Tralala Brides et Mors whispers its adoration of the equestrian world without screaming it from the stable-tops.

To the average onlooker, the watch appears to be yet another elegant and classic timepiece in the maison’s collection. However, to the horse enthusiast, it represents so much more.
 

These new editions are not limited in number but are only available at Hermès boutiques, so if you’re a lover of the brand or of horses in general, prepare to present your platinum card in trade for an orange bag.

For more information, check out the Hermès website.