Just another day in (an Hermès) paradise.

Hermès watches may not be for everyone but there’s no disputing the fact this French luxury Maison excels in aesthetically winsome, artisanal watchmaking. Whether it’s the Arceau L’heure de la lune with its quirky way of displaying the moon phases, or the Galop d’Hermès—a collaboration with the uber-talented designer, Ini Archibong, which saw a new case shape and dial perspective.

While playful, Hermès is also known for excellent craftsmanship (as its legions of leather goods aficionados will tell you). But lest you think it’s limited to bags and scarves, Hermès has long produced artistic dials that are both inspiring and mind-blowing. Case in point: the Arceau Toucan de Paradis.

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Now if you’ve ever worked with thread, weaved, or crocheted in any form, you’ll know it can get tricky manipulating rebellious fibres that seem to want to go anywhere but their intended destination. So it’s really quite impressive how much work went into the dial of the Arceau Toucan de Paradis (not to mention the patience it must have taken). Not only does it feature silk threads, it sits on a base dial that is filled with enamel—a challenging decorative technique in itself.

Based on the bird in created by illustrator Katie Scott for Hermès Toucans de Paradis silk scarf, the dial is first given a layer of enamel on its white gold base. A fine brush coats it with glass powder combined with natural oils, before it is fired in the kiln and then dried. The entire process is repeated over several layers before recesses to house the threads are cut into the enamelled dial.

Inspired by a kimono weaving workshop in Japan, Hermès’ silk thread technique is applied to the prepared dial. Using 500 multicoloured silk threads—all individually assembled—the vibrant toucan is brought to life in a stunning display of art that takes no less than a full week to create.

Adding to the spectacle is a ring of 82 diamonds around the bezel, while a Zanzibar blue calfskin strap complements the look perfectly. Housed inside the 38mm white gold case is the Hermès H1912 self-winding movement with 50 hours of power reserve.

It’s clear why Hermès is known for quality craftsmanship; and if artistic dials are your thing, the Arceau Toucan de Paradis is definitely a showstopper you’d want on your wrist.

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