Hermès has never been a brand afraid of color or playful design, yet when it comes to watches, the maison often takes a quieter, more refined path. The H08 line, first launched a few years ago, has steadily become a contemporary pillar for Hermès. Now, two new versions arrive to refresh the lineup. They are not radical departures, but subtle evolutions that feel like they should have been here all along.
A Familiar Shape With Subtle Shifts
The H08 has always had that cushion-like silhouette, somewhere between square and round, and it remains intact here. At 39 mm wide, 42 mm lug-to-lug, and only 10.6 mm thick, it sits easily on the wrist. The case is entirely titanium, and that lightweight feel is part of what makes the watch enjoyable for daily wear.
The first of the new releases is a monochrome titanium model. Imagine shades of grey layered together: a grainy dial surface that matches the case, a slightly darker circular brushed inner ring with nickel finish, and only one pop of color – the tip of the seconds hand, in the unmistakable Hermès orange. If you remember the darker graphite titanium H08, still in the collection, this new version almost feels like its light twin.
Versatility in Straps
While the titanium bracelet feels like the most natural fit, Hermès is never one to leave you short on strap options. The watch can also be paired with rubber straps in orange, blue, or black, or even fabric straps in blue and black. Personally, I find that this monochrome design takes on a completely new character when you swap the bracelet for a bright orange strap. It suddenly feels less minimal and more playful, which is exactly what you might expect from Hermès.
A Second Option With More Edge
The other new release takes a bolder step. Here, titanium is combined with a black ceramic bezel, a black-gold treated brushed ring, and light blue lume known as Saint-Cyr filling the numerals and hands. The contrast makes the dial far more striking, and while I usually hesitate with pastel tones, the soft blue glow works surprisingly well against the darker surfaces.
This version comes on either a dark grey rubber strap or a matching Saint-Cyr strap. It is less subdued than the monochrome model, but not over the top. Think of it as the sportier, more extroverted sibling.
Inside the Case
Both watches use the automatic Hermès caliber H1837, a movement produced by Vaucher in Switzerland. Hermès owns a quarter of Vaucher, so while it is not fully in-house, the connection is much closer than outsourcing to a generic supplier. The specs are solid: 28,800 vibrations per hour, a 50-hour power reserve, and neat decoration with repeating H motifs and sunray finishing. It is not chronometer certified, but in daily use the movement has a good reputation for reliability.
One thing I often appreciate in Hermès watches is how they balance mechanical seriousness with a sense of design. The H1837 will not win a finishing contest against a Lange or Patek, but it does its job, and it does it consistently.
Why These Models Matter
The last time Hermès introduced new H08 variations was back in May 2023. That might not sound like long ago, but in the watch industry, where seasonal updates and endless dial colors are the norm, a year and a half can feel like an eternity. It is also surprising considering Hermès is a fashion powerhouse that thrives on seasonal changes.
These two models do not scream for attention the way the colorful glass-fiber versions once did. Still, they feel more refined and natural. The Saint-Cyr version especially shows that Hermès can play with color without losing its sense of elegance.
Price and Availability
The monochromatic titanium version is priced at 7,200 USD on bracelet. The Saint-Cyr accented version with rubber strap comes in slightly higher, at 7,600 USD. Both are part of the regular collection, not limited editions, and they are available now through Hermès boutiques and select retailers.
Final Thoughts
Hermès is slowly but steadily building credibility in the world of watchmaking. The H08 has proven that it is not just a passing experiment. With these new additions, the line now feels more complete.
I like that one watch here is restrained and almost architectural, while the other is playful with its lume-filled numerals. If you have been waiting for a version of the H08 that feels balanced yet distinct, these might be the ones to look at.
After all, it is not every day you see a brand better known for silk scarves and leather goods create a titanium watch that feels this sharp. And if you are wondering whether Hermès is serious about watches, well, the H08 should give you a pretty good answer.
More information via Hermès on-line.
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