This year’s edition of Watches and Wonders 2026 once again demonstrated that contemporary luxury watchmaking is increasingly moving towards emotion, design, and artistic expression. Among the brands that drew particular attention was Hermès. The latest watches from Hermès prove that the French fashion and watchmaking house is boldly setting new directions in the world of haute horlogerie.
The new versions of the H08 and Arceau Samarcande collections show that watches from Hermès are no longer just luxurious accessories. They are becoming a fusion of modern applied art, advanced mechanics, and bold design that sets the brand apart from the competition.
Mechanism as a design element
One of the most important themes of Hermès releases for 2026 is skeletonization—a filigree construction that allows you to observe the workings of the movement almost in its entirety. This solution has fascinated collectors for years, as it requires the highest level of precision and finishing. In watches of this type, every detail remains visible, so the quality of craftsmanship must be flawless.
However, Hermès watches use skeletonization not only as a demonstration of technical prowess. The movement becomes an integral part of the overall design aesthetic. Transparent dials, architectural bridges, and spatial construction give the new models a distinctly modern character.
Hermès H08 Squelette — modern luxury in a sporty edition
The greatest interest was undoubtedly sparked by the Hermès H08 Squelette — the first skeleton model in the sporty H08 collection.
The new interpretation retains the characteristic case with geometric lines but gains a more futuristic look thanks to the use of sandblasted titanium with a black DLC coating and a ceramic bezel. The skeletonized dial reveals the new H1978 S movement made of titanium, which offers a 60-hour power reserve and operates at a frequency of 4 Hz.
It is precisely such designs that make watches from Hermès increasingly seen as next-generation designer objects. The brand perfectly meets the expectations of today’s premium market clients, who are looking for individuality, modernity, and a distinctive style.
Arceau Samarcande — the poetic side of haute horlogerie
The second exceptionally interesting premiere was the Hermès Arceau Samarcande — a model that is much more artistic and emotional in its character.
The Arceau collection, designed by Henri d’Origny, has remained a symbol of elegance inspired by the equestrian world for years. In this year’s edition, the model features a minute repeater and the new skeletonized H1927 S movement with a micro-rotor.
The most distinctive feature is the Saint-Louis crystal dial with a horse-head-shaped cutout, allowing you to observe the movement in action. The transparent case back further showcases the hand-finishing, polishing, and decorations, highlighting the craftsmanship.
Hermès watches are increasingly demonstrating that the brand treats watchmaking as a form of applied art, where technology meets emotion and aesthetics.
Why do Hermès watches spark so much excitement today?
The growing popularity of Hermès in the world of luxury watches stems primarily from the brand’s authenticity. Instead of copying classic Swiss watchmaking patterns, Hermès develops its own design language — more modern, creative, and artistic.
That’s precisely why Hermès watches stand out among many competing models. The brand creates designs with a very strong visual identity, which immediately attract the attention of collectors and design enthusiasts.
Hermès consistently invests in the development of its own movements and top-tier craftsmanship. As a result, its models are increasingly recognized as true works of contemporary haute horlogerie.
A new definition of luxury
Hermès premieres at Watches and Wonders 2026 demonstrate that luxury watchmaking is undergoing a clear transformation. Emotions, lightness of construction, visible mechanics, and the individual character of designs are becoming increasingly important.
Hermès watches fit perfectly into this trend. They combine modern technology with an artistic approach to design, creating models that not only measure time but also tell a story and build an emotional bond with their owner.
And that is precisely why the latest Hermès releases have become some of the most talked-about events at this year’s Watches and Wonders fair.
