In the early twentieth century, it extended its leather-making expertise to accessories such as belts, jackets, bags and, from the 1920s, watch straps. Working with the leading names of the day, the company fashioned "guardians of time", objects that capture the vision of beauty of which it is justifiably proud. In 1978, La Montre Hermès SA opened production facilities in Biel, Switzerland. An entire collection of classically elegant watches followed. Since then, La Montre Hermès has continued to expand and develop its independent manufacturing resources.
Starting point in the Hermès journey. A photo from the archives of this watchmaker shows Émile Hermès' four daughters, including Jacqueline who is wearing a pocket watch on her wrist for which her father had had a leather strap made by the company's saddlers-leather craftsmen.
A "clasp" watch called Kelly in homage to the handbag bought by Princess Grace of Monaco in 1956.
Hermès founds La Montre Hermès S.A, a subsidiary of Hermès International. It operates a production facility in Biel, Switzerland and organises international distribution through Hermès stores and the specialised retail network.
That same year sees the launch of the Arceau model, inspired by the shape of a stirrup.
Launch of Clipper, a flagship model evoking the open seas thanks to its porthole-shaped bezel.
Launch of Cape Cod, which is equipped in 1998 with a double wrap-around strap, based on an idea by Martin Margiela, Art Director for ladies’ ready-to-wear at Hermès.
The Medor watch traces its roots back to one of the very first items manufactured by Hermès, just like harnesses: the dog collar.
Launch of the H-Hour which plays with the Hermès initial
La Montre Hermès acquires more spacious workshops, currently accommodating a staff of more than 100 people.
Launch of the Arceau Temps Suspendu watch, offering an interlude over which time has no hold.
Introduction of the Temps Suspendu ladies' models and a Hermès Atmos pendulum of which 176 pieces were crafted by the Saint-Louis glassmaking workshops owned by the company.Continuation of a vertical approach with the acquisition of Joseph-Erard SA in Le Noirmont, a company operating in watch case production.
Launch of the Dressage L'Heure Masquée model with the hour hand hidden behind the perpetual minute hand, and which only appears if you push a button set into the crown.
Launch of the Hermès Slim, a watch that gets down to basics.
Launch of the Hermès Slim with Enamel, paying tribute to the art of Grand Feu enamelling.
