In the world of horology, watches from fashion brands are generally considered ones to be avoided if one wants a quality timepiece for a price that matches its technical specifications. But that’s not the case with Hermès, as the brand best-known for its chic bags and accessories actually established a dedicated watch making arm in the form of La Montre Hermès, located close to Bienne, Switzerland – a heartland for Swiss watchmaking.
Then Hermès acquired a 25% stake in movement maker Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier, where the brand’s proprietary movements are produced. From there, La Montre Hermès and Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier worked to produce the H1 calibre in 2008, the first exclusive movement for Hermès, and thus giving it legitimacy as a proper watch brand.
